Magnesia‑Carbon Brick (Low Carbon)
Main Chemical Compositions & Categories
Low Carbon MgO-C bricks are composed of high-purity MAGNESIA (MgO) grains, a small amount of CARBON (C) (usually fine graphite, 5% to 10%), and a synthetic Resin or Pitch binder, along with anti-oxidation additives (e.g., Al, Si).
| CATEGORY | CARBON (C) CONTENT | KEY FEATURE | PRIMARY ADVANTAGE |
| LOW CARBON MgO-C | $5% to 10% | Improved oxidation resistance | Higher hot strength and better resistance to air/fumes |
| HIGH CARBON MgO-C | 15% to 25% | Higher non-wetting effect | Maximum slag resistance and thermal shock |
Key Properties and Performance
| PROPERTY | TYPICAL PERFORMANCE | MECHANISM OF ADVANTAGE |
| Oxidation Resistance | GOOD (Improved) | Lower carbon content and use of antioxidants minimizes burn-out near the hot face. |
| Hot Strength (TUL) | VERY HIGH | Less carbon char weakens the MgO matrix less, leading to superior load-bearing capacity at peak T. |
| Slag Resistance | VERY GOOD | MgO resists basic slag; carbon provides the non-wetting effect, resisting infiltration. |
| Thermal Shock | VERY GOOD | Carbon minimizes the high thermal expansion of MgO. |
Advantages and Key Characteristics
Low Carbon Mg-C bricks are engineered for areas where hot strength and stability are paramount, and where oxidation (burning of carbon) by air, Fe2O3 fumes, or oxygen lancing is a primary failure mechanism.
- Superior Creep and Hot Strength: The reduced carbon content means there are fewer carbon layers to compromise the structural integrity of the MgO matrix at high temperature, making the brick more rigid under load.
- Resistance to Oxidation/Burning: The lower carbon mass and higher concentration of anti-oxidation additives (like Al or Si) slow the rate of carbon burn-out when exposed to air (e.g., above the slag line), extending the lining life.
- Balanced Properties: Provides the necessary non-wetting property to prevent slag infiltration (due to the carbon) while maintaining the structural stability of a ceramic bond (due to the high MgO content).
Typical Industries and Applications
This specific grade is used in high-stress, high-heat areas of steel refining:
- Ferrous Industry (Steel): Ladle Freeboard (area above the slag line), permanent linings of steel ladles, and EAF roofs/hot spot areas where exposure to air/fumes is a constant threat.
- Non-Ferrous Industry: Refining vessels where oxygen lancing is used.
Furnace Areas and Service Zones
They are used in zones that require a balance of chemical and thermal stability with resistance to air/fume corrosion:
- LADLE FREEBOARD: The area between the slag line and the ladle top, which is exposed to air, radiant heat, and Fe2O3 fumes that readily oxidize carbon.
- EAF ROOFS AND UPPER WALLS: Areas that must be structurally stable under load and resistant to oxidation from the furnace atmosphere.
- TAPHOLE BRICKS: Used where high TUL and stability are crucial.
Key Data Sheet Properties to Consider
Selection is based on the balance between stability and anti-oxidation:
- Carbon Content: 5% to 10% must be verified for this classification.
- MgO Purity: High MgO content (> 95%) is vital for high hot strength.
- Anti-Oxidation Additives (Al/Si): The type and concentration of these additives indicate the degree of protection against carbon loss.
- Creep in Compression (CISC): Look for low creep rates to confirm the superior hot stability of this low-carbon grade.
Technical Guidance: Low Carbon MgO-C bricks are specified when the hot face temperature and structural load are maximized, and when the standard 15% to 20% carbon grade is failing prematurely due to oxidation (air burning) or weakening under high structural load. If slag is the primary failure mechanism, a higher carbon grade may still be required.
✨ 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. |
