Sole products
The conditions of steel manufacturing put furnaces to the test. To ensure the integrity of the refractories, extend their service life and optimise production efficiency, the use of high-performance refractories has been proven to be effective, especially those capable of withstanding high stresses.
The importance of refractory masses in furnace bottoms
Steel is produced using two main processes: the blast furnace route and the electric arc furnace (EAF) route. While their operation differs, the main distinction between these two furnaces lies in the raw materials used: the blast furnace track mainly consumes iron ore, coke and recycled steel , while the EAF produces steel via recycled scrap and electricity.
In both cases, the extremely high temperatures and the prolonged contact with the molten metal subject the furnace bottoms to high mechanical and thermal stresses. To extend their life, it is essential to apply a compact, dense and homogeneous refractory mass that offers optimal resistance to extreme heat, thermal cycling, as well as chemical attack and mechanical abrasion.
The role of magnesia in the construction of Electric Arc Furnaces (EAF)
To preserve the integrity of the furnace bottom – particularly in the face of chemical and mechanical erosion caused by steel or scrap metal slag – magnesia is the only truly effective product: it offers excellent resistance to high temperatures, corrosion, chipping and thermal shock.
At Terresis MAGNA, we have developed a magnesium-based tampering solution specially adapted to the bottoms of magnesium-based electric arc furnaces.
Formulated without additives and requiring no preheating, it allows the placement of a monolithic layer with high density. This refractory tamper compound guarantees excellent performance during melting operations, abrasion resistance and a barrier against the penetration of molten metal.
Solutions to preserve the integrity of furnaces
Every day, metallurgical furnaces are exposed to extreme thermal, mechanical and chemical stresses that weaken their structure. In addition to the refractory tamping compounds used during commissioning or heavy repairs, it is recommended to regularly apply repair materials to extend the life of the coating.
Magnesia-based products are particularly suitable for these extreme environments. They offer exceptional resistance to slag corrosion, low reactivity to liquid steel and excellent resistance to high temperatures. Applied hot, these materials allow for quick and targeted intervention, reducing downtime and optimizing furnace productivity.
A unique piloting system
At Terresis MAGNA, we go one step further. In addition to our grooming masses and repair materials, we have developed an innovative monitoring system that allows us to monitor the development of the refractory lining in real time – and to measure very precisely via images – the evolution of the refractory lining. The key is a targeting of damaged areas, an optimized use of refractories, and the elimination of personnel in risk areas, for maximum safety.
