Magnesia‑Zirconia Brick
Magnesia‑Zirconia Brick are composed of high-purity MAGNESIA (MgO) and ZIRCONIA (ZrO2). The ZrO2 is often stabilized (e.g., with Y2O3) to prevent catastrophic volume changes during thermal cycling.
| COMPONENT | CONTENT | KEY FEATURE | PRIMARY ADVANTAGE |
| MAGNESIA (MgO) | 60% to 85% | High Refractoriness / Slag Resistance | Provides stability against basic melts |
| ZIRCONIA (ZrO2) | 10% to 35% | Phase Transformation Mechanism | CRITICAL: High thermal shock resistance |
Key Properties and Performance
| PROPERTY | TYPICAL PERFORMANCE | MECHANISM OF ADVANTAGE |
| Thermal Shock | VERY GOOD | The stress-absorbing micro-cracking mechanism associated with the ZrO2 phase transformation enhances spalling resistance. |
| Slag Resistance | EXCELLENT (to BASIC Slags) | The combination resists both chemical dissolution (MgO) and penetration (ZrO2 increases melt viscosity). |
| Hot Strength (TUL) | VERY HIGH | Maintained by the high refractoriness of both MgO and ZrO2 components. |
| Volume Stability | VERY GOOD | The interaction between the two phases provides a rigid, stable structure under high heat and load. |
Magnesia‑Zirconia Brick
Advantages and Key Characteristics
Magnesia-Zirconia bricks are specified for critical zones that require the robust slag resistance of MgO but operate under conditions where the low thermal shock resistance of pure MgO is a failure risk.
- Superior Spalling Resistance: The most significant benefit. ZrO2 particles, especially in their partially stabilized form, undergo a reversible phase change (monoclinic to tetragonal) upon heating/cooling. This creates fine, distributed micro-cracks that absorb internal thermal stresses, preventing large-scale spalling.
- Corrosion Control: The combination of the chemically inert MgO and the structurally sound ZrO2 matrix results in a high-density brick that is highly resistant to both chemical dissolution by basic slags and penetration by molten metal.
- Creep Resistance: The blend of these two highly refractory components ensures minimum deformation under sustained load at peak operating temperatures.
Typical Industries and Applications
This premium brick is used in severe thermal and chemical conditions:
- Ferrous Industry (Steel): Critical hot spots, slag lines, and permanent linings of Electric Arc Furnaces (EAFs) and Ladle Refining Furnaces (LRFs) that undergo frequent thermal cycling.
- Non-Ferrous Industry: High-wear zones in refining vessels handling aggressive basic slags.
- Glass Industry: Specialized areas where basic components (like Na2O) are highly volatile.
Furnace Areas and Service Zones
They are specified for high-risk zones where reliability is paramount:
- EAF/LRF SLAG LINE: Used to maximize refractory life in areas subject to both basic slag attack and high thermal cycling.
- HOT SPOTS: Critical regions of high heat flux and thermal stress.
- LADLE SAFETY LININGS: Used to provide a highly durable, spall-resistant backup layer.
Key Data Sheet Properties to Consider
Selection criteria focus on the thermal and chemical balance:
- ZrO2 Content: CRITICAL VALUE. Must be verified as it dictates the degree of thermal shock improvement.
- Bulk Density (BD) and Apparent Porosity (AP): High BD and low AP are essential to prevent infiltration.
- Thermal Shock Resistance (Cycles to Failure): Look for supplier data confirming enhanced spalling resistance over pure MgO and MgO – Spinel alternatives.
- Stabilization: Verify the ZrO2 is stabilized (e.g., PSZ or FSZ) to ensure the micro-cracking mechanism is beneficial and not destructive.
Technical Guidance: MgO – ZrO2 bricks are a specialized, high-cost solution. They are the ideal choice when thermal spalling resistance must be maximized in a basic refractory system where carbon (MgO – C) is unsuitable (e.g., due to process atmosphere or purity requirements).
✨ 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. |
