Refractories are used in countless industries, from iron and steel to energy and glass. Manufacturing in its current form could not exist if not for the technological advancements in refractory materials since the Industrial Revolution.
Because of their chemical composition and reactions, refractories are fairly complex. However, the basic principles behind them are remarkably simple. In fact, those principles were present as early as 3000 BC, when people began to dig primitive pit kilns in the ground to fire their earthenware (bowls, plates, etc.)
Refractory technology began in earnest during the Iron Age (2000 BC). Using charcoal in a furnace, iron was produced by reducing the iron ore with extreme heat. Furnaces used in iron production featured very elementary refractory lining, usually consisting of unshaped fireclay, carbon-added composite materials, and silica rock, although blocks cut from natural stones or fireclay brick were also used.
During the 18th and 19th century, refractory technology took great strides. Many industries began using the new technology, prompting a label of the “smokestack industries” for the looming smokestack billowing smoke into the air. The driving force behind the growth was the steel industry. Furnaces used for iron and steel manufacturing during this time had the following characteristics:
While steelmaking was transforming the firing process, refractories were making great advancements, including:
In 1901 US Steel was founded as the world’s largest steel manufacturer, and in 1902 Harbison Walker Refractories opened as the largest refractory manufacturer. Thus, the USA was the center of steel manufacturing in the world. Even interrupted by several wars, advancements in refractory technology in this time included:
Following the second world war, refractory technology continued to be refined and improved upon. The high-pressure, high-temperature blast furnace became widely used, and the performance of various types of refractories became more clear, and material designs were altered to facilitate greater efficiency. Other innovations included:
While refractory technology saw the biggest growth in the Industrial Revolution and in the years since WWII, there continue to be advancements and exciting innovations in the field.
Contact Us to learn more about the most cutting-edge refractories available.
The post A Brief History of Refractories appeared first on Refractory Materials, Precast Shapes, and Custom Solutions.
All Rights Reserved | TFL Incorporated