Development of Refractories and Related Products for Steel Melting, Finishing, and Casting

The transformation of the consumption of refractories for the production, out-of-furnace treatment, and casting of steel is considered. The main trends in developing the refractory market are shown to be a significant decrease in the specific consumption of refractories per 1 t liquid steel and the predominant application of refractories based on magnesia raw materials and fused corundum for the working layers of melting units, ladles, and tundishes. The main trend in decreasing the specific costs of refractories is the development of refractories based on alternative sources of raw materials, which are cheaper and more avail - able for refractory manufacturers.