Fireclay Runner Brick
Fireclay Runner Brick are typically high-density, low-porosity versions of High Duty Fireclay, composed of ALUMINA (AL2O3) and SILICA (SIO2). The focus is on dense structure to prevent molten metal penetration.
| CATEGORY | AL2O3 CONTENT | DENSITY / POROSITY | PRIMARY FUNCTION |
| RUNNER BRICK | 40% TO 55% | HIGH DENSITY / LOW POROSITY | SAFE CONVEYANCE OF MOLTEN METAL |
| CLAY GRAPHITE | FIRECLAY + CARBON | VERY HIGH DENSITY | ENHANCED NON-WETTING PROPERTIES |
KEY PROPERTIES AND PERFORMANCE
| PROPERTY | TYPICAL PERFORMANCE | VARIATION WITH AL2O3 CONTENT |
| TEMPERATURE UNDER LOAD (TUL) | GOOD (MUST HOLD SHAPE AT METAL TEMP) | INCREASES WITH AL2O3 CONTENT, WHICH HELPS MAINTAIN CHANNEL INTEGRITY. |
| THERMAL SHOCK | VERY GOOD | CRITICAL DUE TO RAPID HEATING UPON METAL CONTACT. MODERATE POROSITY AIDS RESILIENCE. |
| CORROSION / EROSION | GOOD RESISTANCE TO NON-CORROSIVE METAL FLOW | IMPROVES AS AL2O3 INCREASES AND POROSITY DECREASES. VULNERABLE TO OXIDATION AND SLAG RESIDUE. |
| METAL PENETRATION | MINIMAL | IMPROVES AS BULK DENSITY (BD) INCREASES AND APPARENT POROSITY (AP) DECREASES. |
Fireclay Runner Brick
ADVANTAGES AND KEY CHARACTERISTICS
Fireclay runner bricks are designed specifically to guide molten metal safely and efficiently from the melting furnace to the holding vessel or casting mold, particularly in basic iron and non-ferrous operations.
- Molten Metal Integrity: They ensure the metal is conveyed without leakage, minimizing the risk of run-outs and maintaining a smooth, non-turbulent flow path.
- Low Cost/High Density Balance: They provide a cost-effective material with sufficient density and hot strength to resist physical erosion from the fast-moving stream of molten metal.
- Thermal Shock Resistance: CRITICAL. Runner systems are preheated, but still experience a massive thermal shock when receiving a sudden rush of molten metal, which Fireclay handles well.
TYPICAL INDUSTRIES AND APPLICATIONS
Runner bricks are essential components in all casting and pouring operations:
- Ferrous Industry: Used in the trough and runner systems for transferring hot metal from the blast furnace to the ladle (taps) and for continuous casting tundish furniture.
- Foundry: Used in the gating and runner systems for sand casting, particularly for iron and steel.
- Non-Ferrous Industry: Used in the runner systems for conveying aluminum, copper, and zinc.
FURNACE AREAS AND SERVICE ZONES
Runner bricks are located in specialized channel systems, not the furnace lining itself:
- Tapping Spouts/Runners: The primary channel running from the furnace tap hole to the ladle/vessel.
- Gating Systems: The refractory components used to deliver molten metal into the mold cavity in casting.
- Sleeve and Nozzle Systems: Components requiring high erosion resistance where metal speed is highest.
KEY DATA SHEET PROPERTIES TO CONSIDER
Selection for runner bricks is focused on resistance to erosion and penetration:
- Bulk Density (BD): CRUCIAL. Must be maximized (e.g., above 2.3 g/cm3) to ensure low porosity.
- Apparent Porosity (AP): Should be MINIMIZED (e.g., under 15%) to prevent molten metal or slag infiltration, which leads to swelling and failure.
- Cold Crushing Strength (CCS): Must be high to resist the physical forces during installation and tapping.
- Erosion/Abrasion Resistance: While not always a standard data sheet value, the material must be known to resist wash-out and mechanical erosion caused by the high-velocity metal stream.
TECHNICAL GUIDANCE: For highly corrosive or demanding steel/slag applications, Fireclay runners are often replaced or upgraded to HIGH ALUMINA, SIO2, or CLAY GRAPHITE materials, which offer superior non-wetting properties and erosion resistance. If slag is present (which is typical), the runner brick must be highly resistant to the specific slag chemistry to prevent severe wear near the tap hole.
✨ 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. |
