Magnesia‑Chrome Brick Low Chrome
Magnesia‑Chrome Brick Low Chrome Cr2O3 are primarily composed of MAGNESIA (MgO) with a lower, supplementary amount of CHROMIUM OXIDE (Cr2O3), typically derived from natural chrome ore. The Cr2O3 content is generally below 15%.
| CATEGORY | Cr2O3 CONTENT | MgO CONTENT | PRIMARY ADVANTAGE |
| LOW Cr2O3 | 8% – 15% | 60% – 80% | Improved thermal shock and volume stability |
| HIGH Cr2O3 | 15% – 30% | 50% – 75% | Enhanced resistance to complex slag systems |
Key Properties and Performance
| PROPERTY | TYPICAL PERFORMANCE | MECHANISM OF ADVANTAGE |
| Thermal Shock | GOOD (Improved) | The formation of MgO-Cr2O3 spinel increases the elasticity and reduces the thermal expansion of the brick. |
| Volume Stability | EXCELLENT | Spinel formation contributes to a highly stable, rigid structure that resists volumetric changes and creep. |
| Slag Resistance | VERY GOOD | Retains the superior resistance to basic CaO-rich slags inherent to the MgO base. |
| Hot Strength (TUL) | VERY HIGH | The dense MgO matrix is stabilized by the chrome phase, maximizing load-bearing capacity. |
Magnesia‑Chrome Brick Low Chrome
Advantages and Key Characteristics
Low Cr2O3 Magnesia-Chrome bricks are used as a superior alternative to pure MgO in areas where thermal cycling or structural stability is a problem, offering a better balance of properties at a competitive cost.
- Enhanced Spalling Resistance: The presence of chromium oxide leads to the formation MgO-Cr2O3 spinel phases. This spinel phase has superior elastic and thermal properties compared to pure periclase (MgO), dramatically reducing the brick’s tendency to crack (spall) during rapid temperature changes.
- Cost-Effective Upgrade: This grade provides the necessary performance upgrade for thermal shock and creep over standard DBM without incurring the high cost associated with pure Cr2O3 or fused materials.
- Volume Stability and Creep: The formation of the secondary spinel phase locks the MgO grains, providing a structure highly resistant to deformation under heavy loads and sustained high temperatures.
Typical Industries and Applications
This brick is widely used across various industries that require stable basic refractories:
- Cement Industry: Transition and burning zones of rotary kilns that require improved spalling resistance due to temperature fluctuations.
- Non-Ferrous Industry: Less aggressive refining vessels and holding furnaces for copper and lead.
- Glass Industry: Specialized regenerator zones exposed to alkali and metal vapors.
- Ferrous Industry (Steel): Backing and safety linings in EAFs and ladles.
Furnace Areas and Service Zones
They are specified for structural zones that experience both load and thermal cycling:
- CEMENT KILN TRANSITION ZONE: The critical zone where refractory failure due to thermal stress is common.
- SAFETY AND BACKUP LININGS: Used behind the working lining in large vessels where high volume stability is required over long campaigns.
- REGENERATOR UPPER COURSES: Used in glass and ferrous industries for improved stability over Al2O3 based materials.
Key Data Sheet Properties to Consider
Selection criteria focus on the thermal enhancement provided by the low chrome content:
- Cr2O3 Content: 8% – 15% must be verified. The Cr2O3 acts as a beneficial additive, not the primary refractory phase.
- Thermal Shock Resistance Index: Look for data confirming superior spalling resistance compared to pure DBM.
- Apparent Porosity (AP): Should be low to moderate (8% – 15%) to balance density (for slag resistance) with elasticity (for shock resistance).
- MgO Purity: Should be high to maximize the initial refractoriness.
Technical Guidance: Low Cr2O3 Magnesia-Chrome bricks are the preferred choice when thermal spalling is the primary issue causing premature failure of a pure Magnesia lining. They are a versatile, economic, and high-performance solution for most general basic refractory needs. As with all chrome materials, proper disposal handling must be considered for potential Cr(VI) formation.
✨ Customization Services
We offer product customization services, allowing you to tailor the appearance, dimensions, or specific markings of items like refractory shapes or bricks. This includes options for incorporating specific geometric requirements to ensure seamless integration into your process systems.
🔬 Sampling for Testing & Validation
Free product samples are available for thorough testing and validation. This allows you to confirm the quality, compatibility, and performance of our materials—such as specific bricks, castables, or raw materials—before committing to a full order.
💡 Expertise in Refractory Solutions
Leverage our deep expertise to receive detailed, application-specific refractory solutions. We move beyond just selling products by providing comprehensive plans that encompass material selection, installation guidance, and performance optimization to maximize the lifespan and efficiency of your high-temperature processes.
Rabatec products are exclusively manufactured in facilities that have achieved rigorous ISO certifications across Quality (ISO 9001), Environmental Management, and Occupational Health & Safety. This commitment ensures every product, from refractory bricks to specialized equipment, meets the highest global benchmarks for performance, sustainability, and workplace safety.
📦 Logistics Excellence: Shipping, Packaging, and Marking
Minimizing Risk: We manage all logistics to minimize handling touchpoints and transit shock. Our carriers are pre-vetted for their experience in transporting heavy, fragile, and sensitive industrial materials.
Traceability: Every shipment includes comprehensive documentation and tracking information, providing end-to-end visibility and ensuring precise delivery coordination for your site.
Protection is Paramount: Our packaging strictly follows industry standards to prevent damage, corner chipping, and moisture absorption—especially critical for materials like Basic Refractory Bricks and Refractory Mortars & Mixes.
Robust Palletization: Products are secured on fumigated, high-strength export pallets (e.g., 1100x950mm or similar sturdy dimensions) using heavy-duty strapping and durable protective wrapping (polyethylene sheeting, cardboard, etc.) to withstand long-distance travel and multiple loadings.
Moisture Control: Sensitive materials are protected with appropriate sealing and, where necessary, desiccants or moisture-vapor proof enclosures to maintain the product's integrity until installation.
Clear Identification: All outer packaging is clearly marked on multiple sides with large, legible text for immediate identification and safe handling.
Full Traceability: Markings include all essential data points: Product Name, Quality Grade, Batch Number, Quantity, Net/Gross Weight, Order Number, and the Final Destination/Construction Area. This ensures every pallet can be accounted for and correctly staged upon arrival.
Safety & Compliance: We adhere to all regulatory requirements for marking, labeling, and placarding—especially for any items classified as Dangerous Goods—to ensure full compliance with international and domestic transport regulations.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Question | Elaborated Answer |
Q: What is the Refractoriness Under Load (RUL) of your refractories? | A: Refractoriness Under Load (RUL) is a critical property that defines the maximum temperature our materials can withstand while under compressive stress before deforming (softening). Since we offer a wide range of materials—from Alumina-Silicate Bricks to high-performance Silicon Carbide Bricks—the RUL varies significantly. For specific product data, please refer to the product data sheet or submit a quote request for the material you are interested in. |
Q: Where are the Rabatec refractories and materials produced? | A: Our products are primarily sourced from specialized manufacturing plants in China. Crucially, these facilities have all undergone rigorous audits and achieved comprehensive ISO certifications (Quality, Environment, and Safety), ensuring that production adheres to the highest global standards for consistency and performance. |
Q: What refractory materials does the company offer? | A: We supply a comprehensive portfolio of advanced refractory solutions, including: Shaped Products: Alumina & Silica Bricks, Basic & Specialized Bricks (e.g., Magnesia), SiC & Structural Ceramics, and Precast Shapes. Monolithic Products: Refractory Castables, Mixes & Mortars. Insulation: Insulation Fibre and High-Performance Insulation Products. |
Q: How should I choose the appropriate refractory material for my application? | A: Selecting the correct refractory is paramount to process efficiency. The choice depends on three key factors: 1. Operating Environment: Maximum process temperature and thermal cycling (shock). 2. Chemical Attack: Type of slag, molten metal, or corrosive gas being handled (acidic, neutral, or basic). 3. Mechanical Stress: Abrasion, erosion, and static load requirements. We recommend utilizing our detailed refractory solutions service to consult with our engineers for an optimized, application-specific recommendation. |
Q: Which monolithic material should I choose when patching an existing lining? | A: For patching and minor repairs, the ideal monolithic material depends on the parent lining material, the patching depth, and the need for a rapid return to service. Common choices include: Refractory Mortars & Mixes (for minor joints/surfaces) or Plastic Refractories (for areas requiring physical compaction). Always choose a patch material chemically compatible with the existing lining to ensure proper bonding and service life. |
Q: Can I receive product samples before placing a major order? | A: Yes. We gladly provide product samples for your internal testing and validation purposes. This ensures you can confirm the quality, composition, and fit of the material—such as our Refractory Castables or Alumina-Silicate Bricks—in your specific operational environment before committing to a bulk purchase. |
Q: Do you provide certifications to verify material quality? | A: Absolutely. We provide product-related inspection certificates and quality assurance documentation upon request. This verifies that your order has passed all internal quality control checks and meets the required material specifications and industry standards. |
Q: What measures are taken for product protection during transport? | A: We ensure quick, reliable transport by using robust, industrial packaging that strictly follows industry standards. This includes high-strength palletization, heavy-duty strapping, and weather-resistant wrapping to protect fragile items like bricks and mixes from corner chipping, mechanical damage, and moisture during transit. |
