Borax / Borates (Na₂B₄O₇)
Borax (sodium borate, technically Na2B4O7 – 10H2O) is a naturally occurring mineral used industrially as a source of Boron Oxide (B2O3). Boron compounds are highly valued in high-temperature processes for their ability to lower the melting point of various materials, act as a powerful flux to scavenge unwanted oxides (slags), and stabilize glassy structures (vitrification).
Main Composition and Release
Borax is a hydrate, but its industrial value lies in the amount of B2O3 it delivers to the process.
| KEY FORM | CHEMICAL FORMULA | B2O3 Content | PRIMARY USE FOCUS |
| Borax Decahydrate | Na2B4O7 – 10H2O | 36.5 % | General flux, low-temperature uses (cleaning, fertilizer). |
| Borax Pentahydrate | Na2B4O7 – 5H2O | 48.1 % | Intermediate hydration, higher B2O3 per unit mass. |
| Anhydrous Borax | Na2B4O7 | 69.2 % | High-temperature metallurgical flux, minimum moisture introduction. |
Key Performance Metrics
| PROPERTY | TYPICAL PERFORMANCE | MECHANISM OF ADVANTAGE |
| Fluxing Power | HIGH | Boron Oxide readily combines with metal oxides (Fe2O3, Al2O3-SiO2, etc.) to form low-viscosity, low-melting-point slags. |
| Glass Former | STRONG | B2O3 integrates into silicate structures, improving chemical resistance, thermal shock resistance, and lowering the melt temperature. |
| Cleaning Agent | EXCELLENT | Used to dissolve and float off surface oxides and impurities. |
Applications and Key Characteristics
Borax is critical in any process requiring a clean metal surface, a stabilized glass, or a reduction in the required processing temperature.
- Metallurgical Flux (Scavenging Slag): In foundry, welding, and brazing operations, borax is applied to the surface of molten metal or the joint area. It quickly dissolves metal oxides (which can prevent proper alloy mixing or welding) and forms a protective, glassy layer (slag) that is easily skimmed off or displaced.
- Refractory/Ceramic Manufacturing: Borates are added to refractory mixes and glazes as a vitrifying agent. They lower the firing temperature of ceramic and glass batches, save energy, and enhance the final product’s properties like chemical durability and thermal expansion control.
- Fiberglass Production: Borax is an essential component in the manufacturing of fiberglass insulation and textile glass. It lowers the viscosity and melting temperature of the glass batch, making it easier to draw into fine fibers.
- Fire Retardant: When heated, borates release water, absorbing heat, and forming a protective glaze on materials, leading to its use in certain fire-retardant formulations.
Typical Industries and Applications
- Steel and Precious Metal Refining: Used to clean the surface of molten metal and to aid in the recovery of precious metals from ore concentrates.
- Welding and Brazing: Used as a flux to ensure clean, strong joints by removing surface oxides.
- Glass and Ceramics: Used as a batch ingredient in frit, glazes, fiberglass, and specialty boron-silicate glasses (e.g., Pyrex).
Key Data Sheet Properties to Consider
- Anhydrous Content: For high-temperature metallurgy, Anhydrous Borax is preferred to minimize the introduction of water (steam) into the melt, which can cause sputtering, gas porosity, and cooling.
- Purity: High purity is essential for technical applications like optical glass or specialty alloys to prevent unwanted contamination.
- Particle Size: Granular grades are preferred for general fluxing and melting; fine powders are used for glazes and specialized mixes.
Technical Guidance: When selecting a borate product, always confirm the form (Decahydrate, Pentahydrate, or Anhydrous) based on the maximum processing temperature and the tolerance for water/steam in the system.
✨ Customization Services
We offer product customization services, allowing you to tailor the appearance, dimensions, or specific markings of items like refractory shapes or bricks. This includes options for incorporating specific geometric requirements to ensure seamless integration into your process systems.
🔬 Sampling for Testing & Validation
Free product samples are available for thorough testing and validation. This allows you to confirm the quality, compatibility, and performance of our materials—such as specific bricks, castables, or raw materials—before committing to a full order.
💡 Expertise in Refractory Solutions
Leverage our deep expertise to receive detailed, application-specific refractory solutions. We move beyond just selling products by providing comprehensive plans that encompass material selection, installation guidance, and performance optimization to maximize the lifespan and efficiency of your high-temperature processes.
Rabatec products are exclusively manufactured in facilities that have achieved rigorous ISO certifications across Quality (ISO 9001), Environmental Management, and Occupational Health & Safety. This commitment ensures every product, from refractory bricks to specialized equipment, meets the highest global benchmarks for performance, sustainability, and workplace safety.
📦 Logistics Excellence: Shipping, Packaging, and Marking
Minimizing Risk: We manage all logistics to minimize handling touchpoints and transit shock. Our carriers are pre-vetted for their experience in transporting heavy, fragile, and sensitive industrial materials.
Traceability: Every shipment includes comprehensive documentation and tracking information, providing end-to-end visibility and ensuring precise delivery coordination for your site.
Protection is Paramount: Our packaging strictly follows industry standards to prevent damage, corner chipping, and moisture absorption—especially critical for materials like Basic Refractory Bricks and Refractory Mortars & Mixes.
Robust Palletization: Products are secured on fumigated, high-strength export pallets (e.g., 1100x950mm or similar sturdy dimensions) using heavy-duty strapping and durable protective wrapping (polyethylene sheeting, cardboard, etc.) to withstand long-distance travel and multiple loadings.
Moisture Control: Sensitive materials are protected with appropriate sealing and, where necessary, desiccants or moisture-vapor proof enclosures to maintain the product's integrity until installation.
Clear Identification: All outer packaging is clearly marked on multiple sides with large, legible text for immediate identification and safe handling.
Full Traceability: Markings include all essential data points: Product Name, Quality Grade, Batch Number, Quantity, Net/Gross Weight, Order Number, and the Final Destination/Construction Area. This ensures every pallet can be accounted for and correctly staged upon arrival.
Safety & Compliance: We adhere to all regulatory requirements for marking, labeling, and placarding—especially for any items classified as Dangerous Goods—to ensure full compliance with international and domestic transport regulations.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Question | Elaborated Answer |
Q: What is the Refractoriness Under Load (RUL) of your refractories? | A: Refractoriness Under Load (RUL) is a critical property that defines the maximum temperature our materials can withstand while under compressive stress before deforming (softening). Since we offer a wide range of materials—from Alumina-Silicate Bricks to high-performance Silicon Carbide Bricks—the RUL varies significantly. For specific product data, please refer to the product data sheet or submit a quote request for the material you are interested in. |
Q: Where are the Rabatec refractories and materials produced? | A: Our products are primarily sourced from specialized manufacturing plants in China. Crucially, these facilities have all undergone rigorous audits and achieved comprehensive ISO certifications (Quality, Environment, and Safety), ensuring that production adheres to the highest global standards for consistency and performance. |
Q: What refractory materials does the company offer? | A: We supply a comprehensive portfolio of advanced refractory solutions, including: Shaped Products: Alumina & Silica Bricks, Basic & Specialized Bricks (e.g., Magnesia), SiC & Structural Ceramics, and Precast Shapes. Monolithic Products: Refractory Castables, Mixes & Mortars. Insulation: Insulation Fibre and High-Performance Insulation Products. |
Q: How should I choose the appropriate refractory material for my application? | A: Selecting the correct refractory is paramount to process efficiency. The choice depends on three key factors: 1. Operating Environment: Maximum process temperature and thermal cycling (shock). 2. Chemical Attack: Type of slag, molten metal, or corrosive gas being handled (acidic, neutral, or basic). 3. Mechanical Stress: Abrasion, erosion, and static load requirements. We recommend utilizing our detailed refractory solutions service to consult with our engineers for an optimized, application-specific recommendation. |
Q: Which monolithic material should I choose when patching an existing lining? | A: For patching and minor repairs, the ideal monolithic material depends on the parent lining material, the patching depth, and the need for a rapid return to service. Common choices include: Refractory Mortars & Mixes (for minor joints/surfaces) or Plastic Refractories (for areas requiring physical compaction). Always choose a patch material chemically compatible with the existing lining to ensure proper bonding and service life. |
Q: Can I receive product samples before placing a major order? | A: Yes. We gladly provide product samples for your internal testing and validation purposes. This ensures you can confirm the quality, composition, and fit of the material—such as our Refractory Castables or Alumina-Silicate Bricks—in your specific operational environment before committing to a bulk purchase. |
Q: Do you provide certifications to verify material quality? | A: Absolutely. We provide product-related inspection certificates and quality assurance documentation upon request. This verifies that your order has passed all internal quality control checks and meets the required material specifications and industry standards. |
Q: What measures are taken for product protection during transport? | A: We ensure quick, reliable transport by using robust, industrial packaging that strictly follows industry standards. This includes high-strength palletization, heavy-duty strapping, and weather-resistant wrapping to protect fragile items like bricks and mixes from corner chipping, mechanical damage, and moisture during transit. |
