The growing interest in molten aluminum transportation, due to economic reasons, highlights the importance of the correct refractory lining selection for the ladles used in this operation. The chemical composition of the refractory and the search for solutions that reduce the corrosion are the first topics to be addressed. For this purpose, it is of utmost importance to select thermodynamically stable oxides and anti-wetting containing refractories, in order to extend ladle lining life. Besides the chemical approach, another central issue to delay the infiltration of molten aluminum is the control of the pore size distribution. However, the material is also subjected to wear mechanisms, e.g. during the cleaning operation. For that reason, it is also necessary to consider the mechanical strength, as well as physical properties that may consequently affect the maximum load of transported aluminum. Furthermore, heat transfer parameters, such as heat flow and cold face temperature, should also be assessed to compare different proposals, before industrial scale testing. Thus, to choose the best lining, a systemic analysis that takes into account all of the intervening factors in the ladle performance and in economic aspects was made, aiming to select the best alternative in terms of energy saving, life expectancy and aluminum capacity availability.
aluminum; refractory; ladle
