ABSTRACT
Fireclay refractories are the most common refractories and important types from the view of total volume production. When comparing with other refractories, fireclay refractories are inferior to silica and basic refractories in resistance to chemical attack against acidic and basic environments, respectively and weaker both at ambient and elevated temperatures to alumina refractories. Fireclay is a relatively impure secondary clay commonly found from areas close to coal mines, although other natural deposits are also available as potential sources in many countries. A part of the clay is calcined before use, and the calcined clay is used along with the raw clay to make the final refractory composition. The mixture of different grog fractions and fine raw clay is mixed both in dry or wet conditions. In dry conditions, the ingredients are directly charged in the mixer and mixed with a minimum amount of water required for pressing.
