MgO-C brick

The MgO-C Brick represents a sophisticated refractory solution that has become the industry standard for demanding steelmaking applications. The combination of high-purity magnesia and graphite carbon provides exceptional resistance to slag attack, thermal shock, and mechanical stress. This magnesia-carbon refractory is widely recognized as the material of choice for ladle slag lines and electric arc furnace applications where aggressive conditions require the highest performance materials.

The MgO-C system works through a combination of physical and chemical properties. The magnesia component provides outstanding resistance to basic slag attack, while the carbon acts as a non-wetting agent that reduces slag penetration. The carbon also improves thermal shock resistance by providing a path for thermal expansion and contraction, reducing the risk of cracking during rapid temperature changes. This combination makes MgO-C bricks particularly effective in applications where both chemical attack and thermal cycling are severe.

The nine available grades provide exceptional flexibility for different operational requirements. The ZMT-3A grade with 87% MgO and 3% carbon offers a high-purity magnesia formulation for applications requiring maximum slag resistance. The ZMT-20A grade with 70% MgO and 20% carbon provides maximum thermal shock resistance and non-wetting properties for the most aggressive slag line applications. The intermediate grades allow steelmakers to select the optimal balance of properties for specific operating conditions.

The physical properties vary across the grade range to reflect different application requirements. Bulk density ranges from 3.15 g/cm³ in the highest-density grade to 2.88 g/cm³ in the lower-density grades. Apparent porosity decreases from 7% to 3% as carbon content increases, reflecting the dense structure provided by higher carbon levels. Cold crushing strength ranges from 45 MPa in the highest-strength grades to 25 MPa, with higher strength generally associated with higher magnesia content and lower carbon levels.

Product highlights

Nine Grade Options for Maximum Application Flexibility
The MgO-C brick range includes nine grades from ZMT-3A to ZMT-20A with MgO content from 87% to 70% and carbon content from 3% to 20%. This extensive range allows steelmakers to select the optimal grade for specific applications, from high-magnesia formulations for slag resistance to high-carbon grades for thermal shock protection.

Exceptional Slag Resistance
The high-purity magnesia content provides outstanding resistance to basic slag attack in ladle and electric arc furnace applications. The carbon component acts as a non-wetting agent that reduces slag penetration and extends service life. This combination delivers superior durability in aggressive metallurgical environments.

Superior Thermal Shock Stability
The MgO-C system exhibits excellent thermal shock resistance essential for ladle applications. The carbon content provides a path for thermal expansion and contraction, reducing cracking and spalling. The thermal shock stability extends refractory service life and improves operational reliability.

High Bulk Density for Corrosion Protection
Bulk density ranges from 2.88 to 3.15 g/cm³ across the grade range. The dense structure reduces slag penetration and slows the corrosion process. Higher-density grades provide maximum protection in the most aggressive applications.

Very Low Apparent Porosity
Apparent porosity of 3-7% provides an exceptionally dense structure that resists slag penetration and chemical attack. The low porosity significantly reduces pathways for corrosive slag penetration. Higher carbon grades achieve the lowest porosity for maximum protection.

Wide Range of Cold Crushing Strength
Cold crushing strength ranges from 25 to 45 MPa across the grade range. Higher-strength grades provide maximum structural integrity for demanding applications. Lower-strength grades with higher carbon content offer superior thermal shock resistance.

Proven Performance in Steelmaking
MgO-C bricks have demonstrated reliable performance in ladle slag lines, electric arc furnace sidewalls, and steel ladle linings. The proven track record provides confidence in performance and service life across various steelmaking applications.

Flexible Carbon Content Selection
Carbon content from 3% to 20% allows selection of the optimal non-wetting properties for specific applications. Higher carbon grades provide maximum resistance to slag penetration. Lower carbon grades offer higher magnesia content for maximum chemical resistance.