Studying the Compositions and Modes of Manufacturing Refractory Products Using Steel Production Slag

The article presents the results of studying the possibility of using steelmaking waste as an anthropogenic raw material for manufacturing refractory materials. Steelmaking slag that is characterized by an increased content of calcium silicates, was used as an additive that increased heat resistance of refractory materials. The studies show that it is most appropriate to use as the main filler a fraction of fireclay scrap 0.8-0.9 mm (60%); fine-grained fireclay (0.2-0.3 mm, 10%); clay suspension with the moisture content of 7-8% (30%), which ensures the production of a high-quality refractory material. In this case, it is advisable to press the samples with pressure of 22-23 MPa, to sinter at the temperature of 1250 - 1270 ºС within 10-12 hours. The microstructure of the samples was studied, where it was shown that the experimental fireclay sample had a more uniform structure and a smaller number of rounded pores. Thus, on the basis of anthropogenic raw materials it is possible to obtain refractory fireclay products that can be recommended as alternative materials for lining various types of thermal units of foundry and plants of metallurgical production with the maximum application temperature of 1250-1300 ºС.