In the process of modern steel production, the refractory stopper brick plays a vital role. It is located at the bottom of the stopper and closely cooperates with the nozzle brick, which is the key component to control the flow of molten steel. The quality and performance of plug bricks directly affect the efficiency, quality and safety of steel production. This paper will introduce the characteristics, technical parameters, quality control, packaging, transportation and application cases of plug bricks in detail to help readers fully understand this key refractory.

I. Characteristics of plug bricks

The main function of the plug brick is to block the nozzle and prevent the leakage of molten steel when not casting, but when casting, a gap is formed between the plug brick and the nozzle brick by lifting the plug rod, so that the molten steel can flow out smoothly. In order to meet this functional requirement, the plug brick has the following remarkable characteristics:

(1) High fire resistance

Plug bricks need to withstand the long-term erosion of high-temperature molten steel, so they must have extremely high fire resistance. Its fire resistance temperature is usually above 1500℃, which can ensure that the structure is stable in high temperature environment and does not melt or deform.

(2) Good thermal shock resistance

In the process of iron and steel production, the plug brick will frequently undergo a sharp change in temperature, such as the scouring from high-temperature molten steel to the cooling process. Good thermal shock resistance enables it to maintain integrity under such extreme temperature fluctuations and avoid cracks or damage caused by thermal stress.

(3) Wear resistance and crack resistance

The molten steel will produce strong mechanical wear on the plug brick during the flowing process. The wear resistance of plug brick ensures that it can maintain the stability of shape and size in long-term use, and reduces the risk of molten steel leakage caused by wear. At the same time, its crack resistance can effectively prevent cracks in the use process and prolong the service life.

(4) Corrosion resistance

Molten steel contains many chemical components and is corrosive to refractories. The corrosion resistance of plug brick enables it to resist chemical corrosion in molten steel and maintain good performance, and will not affect the quality of molten steel due to corrosion.

(5) no pollution to molten steel

In the high temperature environment, the plug brick will not release any substances that may pollute the molten steel, ensuring the purity of the molten steel, thus improving the quality of the final product.

(6) Regular shape and precise size

The plug brick has regular shape, accurate size and smooth surface. This enables it to be perfectly matched with the nozzle brick, ensuring good sealing and smooth flow of molten steel during use.

II. Technical parameters

The technical parameters of plug brick are the key indexes to measure its performance and applicability. The following are its main technical parameters:

(1) Varieties and specifications

Plug bricks are divided into sintered and non-sintered types. Sintered plug bricks have higher strength and fire resistance, while non-sintered plug bricks have better thermal shock resistance. The common specification model is SK-34, and its size and shape can be customized according to customers' needs.

(2) Quality standards

The quality standard of plug bricks follows international general standards, such as KS, JIS, ASTM, ASME, AMS, DIN, etc. These standards cover many aspects, such as chemical composition, physical properties and appearance quality, to ensure the high quality and consistency of products.

(3) customization

Plug bricks can be customized according to the specific needs of customers, including size, chemical composition analysis, technical specifications and so on. This customized service can meet the needs of different customers in different application scenarios and improve the applicability and service life of products.

(4) Packaging and samples

Plug bricks are usually packed in pallets and protected with plastic film to prevent damage during transportation. Samples can be provided free of charge, and customers only need to bear the freight. This packaging method not only ensures the integrity of the product, but also facilitates transportation and storage.

III. Quality Control

Quality control is an important link to ensure the performance and reliability of plug bricks. Production enterprises usually establish a set of perfect quality control system, from raw material procurement to finished products leaving the factory, every link has undergone strict quality inspection.

(1) Professional quality inspection

Quality inspection includes chemical analysis and physical performance test. Chemical analysis can ensure that the composition of raw materials meets the requirements, thus ensuring the fire resistance and corrosion resistance of products. The physical performance test covers fire resistance, thermal shock resistance, wear resistance and other aspects to ensure the performance of the product in practical use.

(2) Visual inspection

Appearance inspection is an important part of quality control. The quality inspector will strictly check the dimensional tolerance, deformation, cracks, corner defects, melting holes and colors of the plug bricks. Any products that do not meet the standards will be prohibited from leaving the factory to ensure the reliable quality of the products received by customers.

IV. Application cases

Plug bricks are widely used in continuous casting process in iron and steel production. In the process of continuous casting, the plug brick is installed at the bottom of the plug rod and closely cooperates with the nozzle brick. When it is necessary to stop casting, the plug brick blocks the nozzle to prevent molten steel from leaking; When it is necessary to start casting, a gap is formed between the plug brick and the nozzle brick by lifting the plug rod, and molten steel flows out from the nozzle. This precise control method can effectively improve the production efficiency, reduce the waste of molten steel and ensure the product quality.

V. answers to frequently asked questions

(1) How to get an accurate quotation?

Customers need to provide detailed product information, including specifications, technical data, dimensions, drawings, quantities, application fields and unloading ports. The manufacturer will provide the most accurate quotation based on this information.

(2) What is the service life of the plug brick?

The service life of different types of plug bricks is different, which also depends on the use conditions and methods. Generally speaking, the service life of sintered plug brick is longer, while the non-sintered plug brick shows better performance in the environment of frequent temperature changes.

(3) How to solve the quality problem?

If the product has quality problems, the manufacturer will negotiate with the customer and make compensation according to the relevant evidence. This responsible attitude can effectively protect the interests of customers and enhance their trust in products.

VI. Summary

As a key refractory material in steel production, plug brick's high performance and reliability are very important to ensure production efficiency and product quality. Through strict quality control, flexible customized service and perfect after-sales service, plug bricks can meet the needs of different customers and provide strong support for steel production. Zibo Zhuoyue Refractory Co., Ltd. relies on its rich production experience, advanced quality management system with perfect production equipment to provide high-quality plug brick products and one-stop refractory solutions for customers all over the world.