What Are the Refractory Materials Used in Aluminum Plants?

Refractory materials used in aluminum plants include refractory bricks, non-stick aluminum, anti-seepage castables, insulation materials, etc. Please see the detailed introduction below.

The refractory materials used in aluminum plants are mainly to resist the effects of high temperature and corrosion to ensure the smooth progress of the aluminum smelting and casting process. The following are some common refractory materials used in aluminum plants:

Refractory bricks: Refractory bricks are one of the more common refractory materials and can be used to construct furnace walls, furnace bottoms, and furnace roofs. They can withstand high temperatures and perform well in the corrosive atmosphere of aluminum. High alumina refractory bricks and silicon carbide refractory bricks are commonly used in aluminum smelting.

Refractory castable: This material is commonly used inside furnaces to fill and maintain the shape of the furnace cavity. They can be constructed by pouring or pounding to ensure continuity and high-temperature resistance of the furnace cavity.

Non-stick aluminum refractory castable: Aluminum alloy smelting castable is specially designed for the aluminum melting industry. Non-stick aluminum refractory castables can significantly increase the service life of aluminum alloy melting furnaces. During the aluminum smelting process, no aluminum ash is produced and no corundum is formed. It prevents the metal aluminum solution from reacting with elements in the refractory material, thus preventing the entry of impurities. Aluminum alloy affects the quality of aluminum alloy. Reduce the adhesion rate of aluminum liquid and improve anti-seepage capability.

Anti-seepage castable: It has the characteristics of high strength, low thermal conductivity, and strong anti-penetration ability. It prevents the penetration and erosion of aluminum liquid and electrolyte, thereby extending the service life of the electrolytic cell. At the same time, it prevents the electrolyte from entering the refractory and heat-insulating layer. The increase in thermal conductivity leads to an increase in the power consumption of the electrolytic cell. During use, the anti-seepage castable can react with the alkali metal ions in the electrolyte to form an isolation film, thereby achieving the purpose of anti-seepage.

Refractory ceramic fiber: Refractory ceramic fiber is commonly used for insulation and furnace cavity lining. They have good thermal insulation properties and high-temperature resistance, which can reduce the heat loss of the furnace.

Refractory coatings: These coatings are often applied to furnace cavity surfaces to provide additional thermal protection and corrosion resistance. They can be used on both the inner and outer walls of the oven cavity.

Refractory ceramic plates and ceramic tiles: These materials are often used in furnace floor and roof linings to provide extra protection and resistance to wear and tear.

Refractory ceramic filter element: During the aluminum casting process, the refractory ceramic filter element is used to filter impurities to improve the quality of the casting.

Graphite: Graphite is often used in the electrolysis process of aluminum as an electrode material because of its good electrical conductivity and high-temperature resistance.

Different aluminum smelting processes and equipment may require different types of refractory materials, so the specific selection will vary depending on the needs of the plant. In addition, with the development of technology, new refractory materials may continue to emerge to improve efficiency and extend the service life of equipment.