Introduction
High-temperature resistant refractory materials are essential in the process of copper smelting. They can effectively resist high temperatures for a long time, prevent oxide exotherms, protect crucible linings, and play an important role in the production process of copper smelting. In this paper, the application of refractory materials in the process of copper smelting is discussed, and the impact of the properties of refractory materials on copper smelting is analyzed.
Overview of copper refining
Copper refining is a process in which copper ore is smelted and refined. The copper ore is heated to high temperatures in a furnace and then reduced to metallic copper under oxidizing conditions. During the smelting process, fluxes, such as silica, limestone, and lime, are added to reduce impurities. The addition of alloys such as arsenic, sulfur, nickel, and molybdenum increases the physical properties of the refined copper.
Application of refractory materials in copper smelting
Refractory materials have a lower melting point than the melting point of the material being processed. In the steelmaking and non-ferrous metallurgical industry, refractory materials are used for many purposes, such as furnace lining, furnace bottom insulation, insulation between the hearth and the shell, combustion chamber lining and other purposes. In the process of copper refining, high-temperature resistant refractory materials are used to protect the relationship between the lining bricks and the furnace lining, reduce the thermal conductivity of the furnace lining, and also play an important role.
Impact of refractory material properties on copper smelting
1. Thermal shock resistance: Refractory materials used in copper smelting should have good thermal shock resistance, which can ensure that the service life of the furnace lining is not affected by rapid temperature changes, and ensure that the organization and properties of the materials remain unchanged.
2. Mechanical strength: Refractory materials used in copper smelting should also have good mechanical strength, which can prevent the furnace lining from being cracked due to the pressure of molten copper.
3. Chemical composition: The composition of refractory materials is also very important. Poorly repaired refractory materials may cause the content of impurities in copper to increase, resulting in a decrease in copper quality.
4. Resistant to abrasion: The surface of refractory materials in copper smelting is exposed to high temperatures and erosion from molten copper. If the refractory materials are not resistant to abrasion, the surface of the furnance lining may be damaged and adhesion of slag may increase.
5. Acid and alkali resistance: Refractory materials used in copper smelting should also have good acid and alkali resistance to prevent the dissolution of copper.
Conclusion
High-temperature resistant refractory materials play an important role in the process of copper smelting. The properties of refractory materials, such as thermal shock resistance, mechanical strength, chemical composition, abrasion resistance, and acid and alkali resistance can all affect the process of copper smelting. Therefore, it is necessary to select refractory materials with good properties to ensure the quality of refined copper.
