Furnace Repairer (Blast Furnace, Converter, Electric Furnace)
ろしゅうこう（こうろ・てんろ・でんきろ）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
This occupation involves construction, repair, and inspection of refractories used on the inner surfaces of steelmaking furnaces such as blast furnaces, converters, and electric furnaces. It handles essential tasks indispensable for maintaining furnace performance and ensuring safety.
Description
Furnace repairers are technical professionals specializing in the construction, inspection, and repair of refractories (refractory bricks and monolithic materials) installed inside steelmaking furnaces such as blast furnaces, converters, and electric furnaces used in steel production. As furnaces operate at high temperatures for long periods, refractories deteriorate over time, developing cracks, spalling, and hardening, so existing refractories are periodically dismantled and new ones are laid or injected. Tasks include stacking refractories, anchor welding, crane operation, scaffolding installation, and cement injection. Safety management and precise construction are required in harsh environments with high temperatures, dust, and noise.
Future Outlook
While steady job demand is expected due to stable needs in the steelmaking industry, automation and labor reduction via IoT and robots are advancing. Market value improves with advanced repair planning and acquisition of digital skills.
Personality Traits
Cautious and Accurate / High Safety Awareness / Patient / Team-Oriented
Work Style
Heavy Equipment Work / High-Temperature Environment Work / Indoor and Outdoor Work / Project-Based / Shift Work
Career Path
Furnace Repair Assistant → Furnace Repairer → Team Leader → Maintenance Technician → Equipment Maintenance Manager
Required Skills
Anchor Welding Technique / Crane Operation (Slinging) / Monolithic Refractory Construction / Refractory Bricklaying / Steel Structure Installation
Recommended Skills
High-Temperature Work Management / Machine Maintenance / Quality Control / Safety and Health Management
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because gaps in refractories and installation accuracy directly impact furnace performance. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Physical stamina is essential for long hours of work in high-temperature environments and handling heavy objects. |
| Stress Tolerance | Stress tolerance is necessary for working in harsh environments such as high temperatures, noise, and dust. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | The work mainly involves standardized construction and repair following procedures, with little room for creativity. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Advanced mathematical analysis is rarely required. |
Related Qualifications
- Aerial Work Platform Operation Skills Training
- Crane Operator
- Slinging Skills Training
- Welding Skills Training
Related Jobs
- Equipment Maintenance Technician
- Steel Worker
- Welder