Iron, Steel & Foundry

Rotary Kiln Process for Producing Sodium Aluminate from Aluminum Dross and the Application of Refractory Materials

The process of producing sodium aluminate using aluminum dross as the primary raw material, with its advantages of high solid waste utilization and high product value-added, not only alleviates the environmental pressure caused by the stockpiling of aluminum dross but also provides a low-cost source of aluminum for sectors such as water treatment, building materials, and chemicals. It has gradually become a popular technological approach within the industry.The inherent components of aluminum dross, combined with the complex elements—such as alkali, sulfur, chlorine, and fluorine—generated by the combustion of limestone, soda ash, and pulverized coal used as raw materials, subject the refractory materials to severe chemical erosion and thermomechanical stress.This paper analyzes the sodium metasilicate production process from aluminum dross, rotary kiln operating conditions, and the mechanisms of refractory damage to explore refractory material configuration schemes that ensure stable and long-term kiln operation.

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A Review of Copper Smelting Processes and Refractory Materials for Furnaces

Copper smelting is divided into two major technical routes: pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical processes. Pyrometallurgical copper smelting accounts for more than 80% of global copper production. The process flow includes steps such as pre-furnace treatment, matte smelting, matte blowing, pyrometallurgical refining, and electrolytic refining, with each step requiring different types of high-temperature industrial furnaces.Furnace operating conditions are complex, subject to multiple destructive factors such as high temperatures, copper matte, slag, matte, flue gas (SO₂, alkali metal vapors), thermal shock, and molten material penetration. Consequently, refractory materials with specific physical and chemical properties must be selected to meet these demands. This paper briefly introduces the mainstream copper smelting processes and core industrial furnaces, and summarizes the types of refractory materials used in each stage along with their key performance characteristics. Keywords: Pyrometallurgical copper smelting; Copper smelting furnaces; Refractory materials; Slag erosion; Copper matte penetration

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Argon Oxygen Decarburization (AOD)

Low-porosity clay bricks are characterized by their dense structure, low porosity, high compressive strength, resistance...

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