Refractory Applications In The Seccondary Lead Industry

Abstract:

Even in times of crisis it is evident that the discontinued use of production facilities in metallurgical plants has considerable influence on the lifespan of refractory linings. Standstills and the associated furnace cooling increase the risk of gaps occurring that can become infiltrated during heat-up. Since Pb and Pb-alloys have low melting points, complete sealing of gaps can start at 900–1000 °C; however, it is necessary for the operators to maintain this temperature for a certain period of time during heat-up to enable the infiltrate to melt.Ever stricter legislation regarding secondary lead plant operations complicates the correlation between refractory material application and the specific refractory material consumption in SRF. In addition, RHI has recognized that constant material developments as well as information directly from the lead production plants are essential to further develop grade concepts that were effectively used up until the legislative changes. This new grade concept must withstand the new process conditions and thereby avoid any furnace downtimes due to excess wear in any furnace areas (i.e., slag zones and end walls of SRFs).The secondary lead industry is facing a positive outlook based on the developing markets, as long as the environmental legislation can be met in the relevant production country. It is important to highlight that constant and close collaboration between refractory supplier and consumer, in the form of continuous discussions and jointly addressing problems, can positively influence refractory consumption and ensuing costs (e.g., standstills and production losses). Through consistent cooperation, based on confidentiality and loyalty, RHI is committed to a forward-looking approach that benefits all partners involved.

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