Tap hole clay, also known as tap hole refractory, is a specialized refractory material used in the steelmaking industry for creating and maintaining tap holes in blast furnaces and other types of metal smelting furnaces.
The tap hole is an opening in the furnace through which molten metal or slag is tapped or drained. Here's what you need to know about tap hole clay:
Purpose: The primary purpose of tap hole clay is to provide a durable and heat-resistant lining for the tap hole. It must withstand the high temperatures and thermal cycling of the furnace, as well as the erosive action of the flowing molten metal or slag.
Material composition: Tap hole clay is typically made from a mixture of refractory clay, grog (crushed refractory material), and other additives. The exact composition may vary depending on the specific requirements of the furnace and the type of metal being processed.
Plasticity and workability: Tap hole clay is formulated to have good plasticity, allowing it to be shaped, molded, and packed into the tap hole. It should be easy to work with and capable of forming a stable and dense lining.
Heat resistance: Tap hole clay is designed to withstand the high temperatures generated in the furnace, often exceeding 1,000°C (1,832°F) or higher. It should have high refractoriness and resist softening or melting under these extreme conditions.
Erosion and wear resistance: Tap hole clay must be resistant to the erosive action of the molten metal or slag that flows through the tap hole. It should have good abrasion resistance and maintain its structural integrity over extended periods of use.
Thermal shock resistance: Tap hole clay should have good thermal shock resistance to withstand the rapid temperature changes that occur during the opening and closing of the tap hole. It should be able to withstand thermal cycling without cracking or spalling.
Adhesion and sealing properties: Tap hole clay should have good adhesion to the refractory lining and the surrounding furnace structure. It should form a tight seal around the tap hole to prevent leakage and maintain the integrity of the furnace.
Application and maintenance: Tap hole clay is typically installed or repaired by skilled operators using specialized tools. It requires proper preparation and careful application to ensure a secure and well-sealed tap hole. Regular maintenance and monitoring of the tap hole are necessary to prevent blockages or failures during operation.Tap hole clay is a critical component in the operation of blast furnaces and other metal smelting furnaces. Its ability to withstand high temperatures, erosion, and thermal cycling ensures the efficient and reliable tapping of molten metal or slag from the furnace. Proper selection, installation, and maintenance of tap hole clay are essential for smooth furnace operation and prolonged refractory lining life.
Buy good quality low cost tap hole clay for blast furnace with a good plasticity and sintering property, the taphole clay is easy to squeeze in and fill gaps and also easy to open with a good wash resistance, which can ensure molten iron and slag to flow out at and even speed and without impeding. Simultaneously it also reduces labor intensity before furnace and pllution to environment.
Chemical Composition |
Al2O3 |
40%min |
50%min |
SiC+C |
30%min |
30%min | |
Bulk Density (g/cm3) |
1250CX3h |
1.5g/cm3 min |
2.1g/cm3 min |
Compression Strength (Mpa) |
1250CX3h |
4.5Mpa min |
4.1Mpa min |
Rupture Strength (Mpa) |
1250CX3h |
2.5Mpa min |
11Mpa min |
Apparent Porosity(%) |
1250CX3h |
35% min |
26% min |