Converter steelmaking is the core process of modern iron and steel production, operating under extremely harsh conditions—temperatures up to 1800°C, intense mechanical erosion from molten steel and scrap, severe chemical corrosion from slag, and frequent thermal shock. The right refractory materials are crucial to protecting the converter shell, ensuring stable production, improving steel quality, and extending furnace campaign life. Below is a detailed overview of the core refractory materials required for different functional zones of the converter.
Magnesia-carbon (MgO-C) bricks are the core refractory material for most converter zones, serving as the main working lining. Made from high-purity fused magnesia, high-quality graphite, phenolic resin binders, and antioxidant additives, they combine the excellent slag resistance of magnesia with the strong thermal shock resistance of graphite. Different grades of magnesia-carbon bricks can be customized for specific areas: high-carbon magnesia-carbon bricks (16-20% carbon content) are used in the slag line and trunnion areas to resist severe erosion, while medium-carbon variants are suitable for the furnace sidewalls and molten pool.
Dolomite bricks are an economical and effective choice for areas with relatively mild working conditions, such as the furnace bottom and lower furnace body. Composed of calcined mixtures of calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate, they offer good resistance to alkaline slag and are often used as a cost-effective alternative to pure magnesia bricks. Tar-bitumen bonded dolomite bricks are particularly suitable for permanent linings, providing reliable thermal insulation and structural stability.
Functional refractory materials are crucial for key converter components. Purging plugs (permeable bricks) are used in the bottom-blowing system, featuring a metal tube-magnesia carbon composite structure to ensure stable gas injection during smelting. Corundum refractory castables (Al₂O₃ content ≥90%) are applied in high-wear areas such as tapping ports, offering ultra-high temperature resistance and strong corrosion resistance.
Additionally, ceramic fiber blankets are also indispensable functional refractory materials for converters, mainly used for thermal insulation at the converter mouth, flue, and other parts. Soft and lightweight, they possess excellent high-temperature resistance and thermal insulation performance, which can effectively reduce heat loss, lower energy consumption, and alleviate thermal stress caused by sudden temperature changes of the furnace body to protect the furnace structure. Ramming mixes and repair materials are also indispensable, maintaining the integrity of the lining and reducing unplanned downtime.
Choosing the right refractory materials must follow the principle of “zonal lining and performance customization”, matching material properties to the specific working conditions of each converter zone. High-quality refractory materials not only extend furnace life but also reduce operating costs and improve steel quality by preventing material contamination. For customized converter refractory material solutions that enhance efficiency and durability, contact our professional team today.
Post time: Apr-20-2026
