Chrome free basic bricks-a determining factor in cement production

A considerable section of every cement rotary kiln is lined with basic bricks. They are supposed to protect the steel shell against extensive heat, severe chemical attack and mechanical stress. A combination of specific raw materials with a matching binding mechanism is chosen by various refractory producers to manufacture well performing products. Each brick supplier advertises his materials as the best available solution to the cement industry. It is the obligation of every kiln operator to select suitable bricks for his kiln and run it as economically as possible. He does not necessarily need to choose the highest quality material or the most expensive bricks on the market, but the selection has to be related to the particular situation in every section of the kiln. Old habits, unsuitable assumptions, unqualified recommendations, mismatched references and even peer pressure are often the underlying reasons for choosing a specific product. Facts, technical data and calculations should instead be used for a profound decision. This requires a detailed knowledge of the kiln conditions, production targets and other variables in the plant. Sufficient information about the wide range of available products and the understanding of their characteristics are essential and are the subject of this paper.