Experience with the Use of Refractory Mixes in the Blast-Furnace Shop at Tulachermet

Results are reported from the use of unshaped refractory mixes at the Tulachermet company to line blast furnaces, the use of castable low-cement concretes for the system of troughs and hood covers in the cast house, and the use of high-durability notch mixes made by different manufacturers. Data are also reported from many years of use of concrete to line the main troughs. The factors that affect the durability of the lining are analyzed and solutions are found to technical and organizational problems, thus making it possible to increase the troughs’ service life, stabilize their performance, and improve working conditions. The article generalizes results obtained from use of the notch mixes and discusses new technical innovations developed to improve the technical-economic indices of blast furnaces and extend their useful life. One innovation examined in particular is a new technology for installing refractories. The technology entails the preliminary installation of a combination concrete lining on the surface of the blast-furnace coolers outside the furnace.