Abstract

DU TOIT, J.; CROMARTY, R.D.  and  GARBERS-CRAIG, A.M.. Matte - tap-hole clay - refractory brick interaction in a PGM smelter. J. S. Afr. Inst. Min. Metall. [online]. 2016, vol.116, n.4, pp.339-342. ISSN 2411-9717.  http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2411-9717/2016/v116n4a6.

Penetration of matte into tap-hole bricks causes detrimental refractory wear, which can lead to furnace breakouts. The ability of the tap-hole clay to form a protective layer on the brick, thereby limiting matte penetration was investigated by examining the interaction between platinum group metal (PGM) matte, tap-hole clay, and alumina-chrome refractory bricks on a laboratory scale. Samples containing clay and brick as well as samples containing clay, brick, and matte were heated to different temperatures to establish the clay-brick interaction and the extent of matte penetration. The greatest degree of physical contact between the brick and clay was achieved at curing temperatures of 600°C. Poor clay-brick contact was observed in the sample that was heated to 900°C. Matte displaced the clay in the clay-brick-matte sample that was heated to 1350°C, with significant matte penetration into the brick. Less matte penetration was observed when the clay-brick-matte sample was heated to 1500°C. Less matte penetration was also observed in the clay-brick-matte sample in which the clay and brick were pre-baked at 800°C, and the sample then reacted with matte at 1350°C.

Keywords : tap-hole clay; alumina-chrome refractory bricks; PGM matte; reaction interface; penetration.

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