Glass kilns require a specific type of fire brick that can withstand high temperatures and chemical corrosion. AZS refractory bricks, also known as electrofused zirconium corundum bricks, are an ideal choice for these applications.
What are AZS Refractory Bricks?
AZS refractory bricks are a type of high-performance refractory material that consists of three main components: alumina (Al2O3), zirconia (ZrO2), and silica (SiO2). The name AZS comes from the first letters of these three components.
AZS bricks are produced by fusing zirconia and alumina at high temperatures, then adding silica to the mix. The resulting material has a very low porosity, high mechanical strength, excellent thermal shock resistance, and outstanding chemical resistance to molten glass, slag, and other harsh chemicals.
Properties of AZS Refractory Bricks
AZS refractory bricks have several unique properties that make them ideal for use in glass kilns. Here are some of the key characteristics of AZS refractory bricks:
High Chemical Resistance
AZS firebricks have excellent chemical resistance to molten glass, alkali, and other corrosive materials. This makes them ideal for use in glass melting furnaces, tanks, and forehearths.
Low Porosity
AZS bricks have a very low porosity, which helps to minimize the risk of glass penetration and damage to the brickwork.
High Mechanical Strength
This refractory bricks have high mechanical strength, which enables them to withstand the weight of the glass and other materials in the kiln.
Thermal Shock Resistance
AZS refractory firebricks have excellent thermal shock resistance, which means they can withstand rapid changes in temperature without cracking or breaking.
Long Service Life
AZS bricks have a long service life, which reduces the need for frequent replacement and maintenance.
Applications of AZS Refractory Bricks in Glass Kilns
AZS refractory bricks for glass kilns are widely used in glass kilns for their superior performance and durability. Here are some of the most common applications of AZS refractory bricks in glass kilns:
Melting Furnace
AZS bricks for glass kilns are used to line the melting furnace, where they provide excellent resistance to the corrosive effects of molten glass.
Forehearth
AZS refractory bricks for kilns are used to line the forehearth, which is a transitional area between the melting furnace and the forming process. The forehearth must maintain a uniform temperature to ensure the proper flow of glass.
Refiner
AZS bricks are used to line the refiner, which is a vessel used to remove impurities from the glass.
Tanks
AZS firebricks are used to line the tanks, which hold the molten glass during the forming process. The bricks must be able to withstand the high temperatures and corrosive effects of the molten glass.
Benefits of Using AZS Refractory Bricks
There are several benefits to using AZS fireproof bricks in glass kilns. Here are some of the most significant advantages:
Superior Performance
AZS fire-resistance bricks offer superior performance compared to other refractory materials. They have excellent chemical resistance, low porosity, high mechanical strength, and outstanding thermal shock resistance.
Cost-Effective
Although AZS bricks are initially more expensive than other refractory materials, they have a longer service life, which reduces the need for frequent replacement and maintenance. This reduces the overall cost of ownership over time.
Improved Product Quality
The use of AZS fireproof bricks in glass kilns can improve the quality of the glass products. The bricks can withstand high temperatures and harsh chemicals, which helps to prevent impurities from entering the glass and affecting its properties.
Environmentally Friendly
AZS bricks are environmentally friendly, as they do not contain hazardous materials or generate harmful emissions during use.
Installation and Maintenance of AZS Fire Bricks
Proper installation and maintenance of AZS refractory bricks are essential to ensure their long service life and optimal performance. Here are some guidelines for installation and maintenance:
Installation
-The surface to be lined with AZS refractory bricks must be clean and free from any debris or contaminants.
-The firebricks should be installed using a high-quality refractory mortar or adhesive, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
-The joints between the bricks should be tightly sealed to prevent any gaps or cracks that could allow molten glass or other corrosive materials to penetrate the brickwork.
Maintenance
-Regular inspections of the AZS refractory bricks should be conducted to identify any signs of damage or wear.
-Any damaged or worn bricks should be replaced promptly to avoid further damage to the kiln.
-Cleaning the brickwork regularly using a high-pressure water jet can help to remove any build-up of debris or contaminants that could affect the performance of the bricks.
Conclusion
AZS bricks are a high-performance refractory material that offers superior chemical and thermal resistance to harsh environments, making them an ideal choice for use in glass kilns.
Their long service life and cost-effectiveness make them a popular choice among glass manufacturers.
By understanding the properties, benefits, and applications of AZS refractory bricks, glass manufacturers can make informed decisions about the selection and maintenance of refractory materials for their kilns.
