3. Refractories and insulation

3.1 Refractories

Refractories are used for lining all types of furnaces, ladles, etc. and must be able to be :

• temperature-resistant (up to 1,900°C);

• the least possible reactivity with metal and slag;

• highly insulating to effectively limit heat loss;

• able to withstand the tipping of metal loads ;

• easy to install and maintain ;

• economical in use (service life, ease of repair) ;

• easy to demolish quickly when the oven or pocket linings need to be completely refurbished.

All these conditions are often contradictory....