Downcomers and Offtakes
Hot, high velocity waste gases and particles impact and erode the refractory lining, reducing thermal efficiency and increasing maintenance costs. Since fibre addition improves refractory toughness by more than 100%, maintenance costs here can be halved. ME 446 has excellent chemical resistance to the gas mix present in this part of the blast furnace.

Recommendation: ME 446

Bell Chaiging System
Charging can weaken the refractory and distort the vessel's steelwork. A cracked lining compromises insulation efficiency and reduces the gas tight seal necessary to prevent unwanted gas escape. By prolonging the integrity of the lining, fibres reduce these costs.

Recommendation: ME 430

Wear Plate Area
Refractory linings in this application are subject to considerable mechanical wear from repeated charging. Fibres prevent the lining cracking and spalling, improving thermal insulation and stopping damage to the vessel's upper structure.

Recommendation: ME 430