Ramming mass is a dry, unshaped refractory material composed of refractory grains like silica, alumina, or magnesia mixed with binders, which is compacted by intense physical force (ramming) to form a seamless, durable lining inside furnaces and ladles for high-temperature metallurgical processes. This refractory lining protects the furnace structure from intense heat, corrosive slags, and erosion, and it hardens during the high-temperature operation of the furnace.

Key Characteristics

Unshaped Material:

Unlike pre-made refractory bricks, ramming mass is installed in its dry, granular form, allowing it to be compacted directly into the desired shape.

Dry Installation:

It is installed without mixing water, which prevents short-circuiting in induction furnaces and results in a short heating and sintering time.

Binder and Aggregates:

It consists of refractory grains (like silica, alumina, or magnesia) and binders, such as boric acid,  which help to sinter the grains and provide strength during heat treatment.

Sintering:

During operation, the furnace's high temperatures sinter (fuse) the ramming mass, forming a dense, strong, and seamless lining.

Applications

Furnace Linings: It forms the internal lining of furnaces and ladles used in metal melting, particularly in induction furnaces and arc furnaces.

Metallurgical Furnaces:

Its primary use is in industries like ferrous and non-ferrous metal processing to protect against extreme temperatures and chemical attack from molten metal and slag.

Repair and Patching:

It is also used for patching existing furnace linings and repairing worn areas to extend the furnace's life.