What are the reasons for the decline in the quality of refractory castables

The quality of refractory castables is crucial to the quality of construction projects. As a castable manufacturer, we often hear complaints from customers that the construction quality of the castables does not meet expectations, or that the castable quality is poor. In fact, the reasons for the decline in castable quality are almost entirely due to a lack of mastery of correct storage or construction methods. So, what are the reasons for the decline in the quality of refractory castables? There are four main points:

1. Regarding the construction quality of refractory castables, four key points need to be considered: the planning and construction quality of anchors, the moisture content of the castable during construction, the site temperature during construction, and post-construction maintenance and baking of the refractory castable.

2. The amount of water added during the mixing of the castable is crucial. For example, if too much water is added, the castable will be too thin, increasing its fluidity and affecting its workability. However, if too little water is added, the aggregate and powder will not mix well, causing accumulation, resulting in a loose structure and reduced construction quality.

3. Another important factor affecting the quality of castables is temperature. Sudden, short-term temperature changes can quickly damage the castable, leading to a significant decrease in quality, and even detachment before use. The thermal shock stability of castables is very weak before construction is completed.

4. Cement content: Cement is a crucial material determining the strength of refractory castables. Generally, as the cement content increases, the compressive strength at room temperature increases, while the high-temperature strength decreases. The refractoriness and softening temperature under load also decrease, and the linear shrinkage rate after firing increases. Some manufacturers may use inferior cement, resulting in castables that do not meet expectations.

Some common reasons for the decline in refractory castable performance include the mixing time in the mixer, the vibration of the vibrator, and the baking and demolding processes, all of which affect the quality of the castable.