ABSTRACT
The most fundamental assumption regarding the joint behavior is that the joint is a non-tension interface. Therefore, for a refractory lining made up of refractory shapes, the lining also consists of non-tension interfaces. In summary, when the center of gravity of the compressive load remains within the kern limit, the stress is compressive across the full joint length. For the lining made up of refractory shapes, the hinge results from the separation of a large portion of the joint length due to a tensile displacement condition that is transferred across a large portion of the joint. The hinge locations within a refractory shell-type structure are not arbitrary. Rather, the hinge locations are governed by the principles of minimum strain energy. The arch example provides the obvious solution to hinge locations within the arch when subjected to a symmetric displacement condition.
