Microstructure of the damaged zone of high alumina brick with the molten pig iron at 1650℃ was studied using scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer to clarify the wear process of the refractory brick at the hearth of blast furnace. The structure of the damaged zone has features showing the extinction of SiO2 component and the existence of metallic iron. Thermodynamic consideration suggested that SiO2 component of the brick was preferentially corroded by the carbon in the molten pig iron.

View full abstract