Refractories

Refractory materials are defined as materials that resist temperatures from 600 °C to far in excess of 1500 °C. They are used in industrial processes - for example, in smelters and blast furnaces, or as a material for moulds. They are also found in everyday use, such as firebrick linings in heating stoves.

In addition to aluminium oxide, the raw materials for refractory products are primarily oxides of the metallic elements silicon, magnesium, calcium, chromium and zirconium. These materials often also contain carbon or silicon carbide. Ceramic-based materials resistant to temperatures exceeding 1500 °C are used in foundries and the steel-, cement-, and glass-making industries for the construction of kilns, smelters, blast furnaces, converters, tundishes and crucibles. They are also used as refractory linings for flues and chimneys. Refractory materials may be resistant to high temperatures; however, due to the extreme conditions of use, they are subject to excessive wear, therefore requiring regular maintenance and frequent replacement. Refractory products are generally manufactured by pressing, stamping or casting.

Blocks and compounds

Refractory materials are generally employed as prefabricated products in the form of corundum, bauxite or fireclay blocks and as monolithic elements.… more

Casting compounds

Monolithic refractory elements are cast in one piece when complex forms prevent manufacturing by stamping or pressing. The basic material is, in turn,… more

Elements containing graphite and silicon carbide

Graphite, an allotropic form of carbon, is very often used in foundries and iron and steel works because of its high resistance to extreme… more

Pouring filters

Ceramic pouring filters ensure contaminant-free and homogeneous castings, especially in the aluminium-processing sector. They filter slag residues and… more