NEW CALCIUM ALUMINATE CEMENT FOR REFRACTORY PRE-CAST SHAPE PRODUCTION

A new high alumina calcium aluminate cement (CAC) has been developed. It is called CA-SYNC. This 75% Al₂O₃ cement has a well-controlled hydration behaviour which provides advantages especially for pre-cast shape production of items such as well blocks or EAF delta sections, which incorporate inner moulds or cores. The setting shrinkage, strength development and setting behaviour were investigated in a self-flow and a vibration  castable. These properties were compared to the well-known 70% Al₂O₃ cement CA-14 M. A much slower shrinkage rate was achieved with CA-SYNC. The strength development is initially slower, but continues for days resulting in higher strength levels. At dried temperatures, CA-SYNC also showed higher strength levels. After firing at temperatures of 1000°C or higher, comparable strength levels were obtained.