Extending the service life of plug bricks can be started from the following aspects:

I. Optimizing material selection

Select the appropriate material according to the working conditions: the material of the plug brick should be selected according to the actual working conditions. For example, when casting calcium-treated steel, MgO-C material can be used; When casting high manganese steel or high oxygen steel, ZrO-C material can be used.

Improve material properties: select high-quality raw materials, such as high-purity alumina and silicon carbide, to improve the oxidation resistance, erosion resistance and erosion resistance of plug bricks.

II. Improved design and structure

Optimize the plug shape: change the plug shape from parabolic to spherical, increase the effective contact area with the water inlet, and reduce the direct erosion of the plug by molten steel.

Increase the thickness of slag line: appropriately increase the thickness of slag line of plug brick to improve its corrosion resistance.

Design argon blowing channel: install an air plug at the plug head, prevent the nozzle from blocking by argon blowing, and reduce the corrosion of molten steel to the plug head.

III. Construction and installation quality control

Strictly control the construction quality: during the installation process, ensure the close cooperation between the plug brick and the nozzle to avoid stress concentration caused by improper installation.

Reasonable expansion joint: according to the thermal expansion coefficient and service temperature of plug brick, reasonable expansion joint is set to reduce the influence of thermal stress on brick body.

IV. Daily maintenance and operation optimization

Stabilize process parameters: keep stable temperature and pressure during use, avoid drastic fluctuations of temperature and pressure, and reduce the damage of thermal stress to plug bricks.

Reduce downtime: minimize unplanned downtime to avoid thermal shock caused by frequent startup and shutdown.

Regular inspection and maintenance: check the use of plug bricks regularly, and find and deal with potential problems in time.

V. Preheating and baking

Proper preheating: properly preheat the plug brick before use to ensure its uniform temperature and avoid thermal stress caused by excessive temperature difference.

Reasonable baking: for the plug bricks that need baking, the baking system should be strictly followed to ensure that the water in the brick body is fully discharged.

Through the above measures, the service life of plug bricks can be effectively prolonged, the production efficiency can be improved and the production cost can be reduced.