How it works – refractory cement
ProRef® Cement is a specially formulated blend of water-based acrylic polymers and inorganic fillers, with a wide range of applications. The acrylic polymers provide exceptional bonding strength, while the inorganic fillers, such as calcium carbonate, alumina trihydrate, and calcium aluminate cement provide excellent adhesion to most metals, wood, concrete and masonry surfaces. ProRef® Cement cures to a tough and durable finish that resists abrasion, impact and temperatures to 3000°F (1648°C). When properly applied, ProRef® Cement provides outstanding protection against corrosion.
ProRef® Cement is easy to apply with a brush or trowel. The material sets up quickly to permit rapid return to service. It may be applied directly over rusted metal surfaces without special preparation and requires minimal surface preparation for maximum adhesion. ProRef® Cement forms an integral bond with the substrate. It will not blister or peel when exposed to high temperature environments or weather extremes and is resistant to acids and alkalis.
ProRef® Cement is an ideal product for repairing and protecting industrial chimneys, stacks, ovens, boilers or any other structures or equipment requiring
This video demonstrates how proref cement works.
ProRef refractory cement is made by mixing two parts of fine silica sand with one part of alumina cement. The mixture is then tamped into place and allowed to cure for at least 24 hours before use. This mixture has been proven to be highly resistant to physical shock and abrasion, as well as to molten aluminum.
It can be used for a wide range of applications, from plugging holes in furnaces, to casting shapes and forms, and forming crucibles.
This video shows you how the cement works:
ProRef® Cement is a refractory cement used in high temperature applications with temperatures of up to 2,000°F. It is ideal for installing ceramic fiber modules and lining furnaces, kilns and boilers. ProRef® Cement can be mixed with ceramic fiber blanket, boards and other ceramic fibers to create custom refractory shapes.
There are many different kinds of refractory cements on the market but they all have one thing in common – they are not strong enough at elevated temperatures. High temperature cements often fail because they crack due to thermal shock or sinter and micro-crack due to continued exposure to high heat.
There are also some other types of cementitious materials out there that claim to be “high temperature” but are simply firebrick mortar without any additives to increase the strength or durability of the material at elevated temperatures.
What is ProRef® Cement?
ProRef® Cement is a blend of refractory aggregates that are treated with a proprietary chemical additive that increases the flexural strength, durability and resistance to spalling of the material when exposed to high heat. This treatment also allows for faster cure times allowing for immediate usage after application.
How does it work?
When
Don’t waste your time making refractory cement from Perlite and Fire Clay. It is much easier to purchase a refractory cement, like Rutland Castable Refractory Cement or A plus B Pottery Supply’s Castable Refractory Cement.
We have used both of these products, with excellent results. They are easy to work with and set up within 24 hours. I prefer Rutland to A + B because it is not as dusty when mixing, but they both do the job.
The beautiful thing about these products is that you don’t have to know how to mix them; just follow the directions on the bag and start casting!
In addition: If you want to make refractory cement there are several different recipes but as far as I know you can not buy it premixed. You can buy ready mixed fire clay however at many home improvement stores.
Refractory cement is a heat resistant material that can withstand extreme temperatures, such as those experienced in fireplaces and wood stoves. It is one of the components of the refractory mortar mixture used to set firebricks in place.
Refractory cement is made from Portland cement, calcium aluminate, and silica sand. The manufacturer will recommend the proper proportions of these materials depending on the intended application. The mix should be wet enough to spread, but thick enough to stay in place when applied.
The mortar should be allowed to cure for at least 48 hours before putting it into use. The curing process may take longer if the weather is cold or damp, since water is necessary for the curing process.
Proper application of refractory cement requires using a bonding agent between each layer of bricks and raking out the joints to create a smooth finish. If this task seems too difficult for your skill level, consult with a professional fireplace installer for assistance.
Refractory cements are a category of refractory product used in lining industrial furnaces and kilns. These cements are composed of mixed acids, alumina, silica oxides, iron oxide and calcium oxide.