REFRACTORIES AND REFRACTORY CEMENTS FOR THE NONFERROUS FOUNDRY1

Development in refractory linings for the various furnaces encountered in the nonferrous foundry industry is outlined, and figures given showing the present trend. These include open-flame, crucible, and electric furnaces. The open-flame furnaces formerly used firebrick linings, but silicon-carbide and high alumina refractories are coming into use. The crucible furnace linings show a decided preference for silicon-carbide refractories, while the electric furnaces are partial to the alumina and mullite bearing types. Progress in the manufacture of refractory cements and their use in the various types of furnaces is discussed. Data are given which indicate that the use of the proper types of cements for maintaining furnace linings of similar composition is becoming more general.