Microwave Firing of High Alumina Castables

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe potential for the microwave processing of high alumina castables was investigated*. Originally a study was conducted on the removal of the physical water from cast shapes. However, it was observed that the refractory castable material (alumina plus calcium aluminate phases) would also interact with the 2.45 GHz M/W radiation, and with proper thermal insulation it could be heated to well above 1427°C (2600°F). Full size production shapes, weighing up to 62 kg (136 lb) were heated in a 13.5 kW oven to these high temperatures. Over 1360 kg (3000 lb) of production shapes were successfully fired using M/W energy. The results of these studies are discussed along with several of the benefits which were made possible by microwave processing.