Various systems and method for acoustic monitoring of smelting furnaces and similar devices are disclosed. Acoustic sensors (and optionally other sensors) are mounted to the furnace. Acoustic emission events generated in the furnace are analyzed to identify conditions that exceed one or more thresholds. The location of acoustic emissions may be identified and reported. Output signals may be generated in response to acoustic emissions. The location of acoustic emissions may be used to identify the location of potential failures in the furnace.