Monolithics, also known as unformed refractories are made in different forms, either in granulated, plastic or as castable, gunning and shotcrete grades which are used for a wide range of applications. Castable refractory, in particular, is a material which is precision cut coarse and fine grains that are put together by a binder and heated to transform it into a ceramic bond. The end product provides more strength and durability as well as better thermal insulation for all types of furnaces and kilns. Castable refractory is derived from various raw materials such as chamotte, silicon carbide, tabular alumina, andalusite, bauxite, mullite, and corundum. These refractories can be classified into the sub-categories including:
Conventional dense refractories
They can withstand very high temperatures up to 1800°C since they are created with high alumina cement. This type of castable refractory is great for burner blocks, muffle furnaces and boiler works. Its key quality is resistance that varies with material selection. The techniques used to install the materials are casting and gunning. Typically, the choice of installation method depends on cost and accessibility.
Low cement
Compared to the conventional dense refractories, this type of castable refractory has a lower amount of cement. It provides exceptional physical properties such as low porosity, high vigour and great abrasion. However, these materials need a controlled installation process. Yet since they are free flowing, low cement castables can be easily pumped into position during installation and may not require vibration.
Insulating
Also known as low density, insulating castable refractory has very low thermal conductivity and is used for either a backup lining or high temperature face work. When they are used as lining behind dense castables and brick work, insulating castables can decrease the lining’s density or its cold face temperature. Having low density, they are not resistant to abrasion thus they are only suitable in use where they don’t have to withstand too much wear and tear.
All these types of castable refractory and more are supplied by FibreCast. We offer an extensive list of high quality castables and precast refractory products. We also provide custom solution to meet your unique application. Simply get in contact with our team who are always ready to address your needs at all times.