Product Overview
Our Fused Cast AZS 36 Refractory Blocks represent a premium grade of electrocast refractories, specifically formulated for the most demanding zones of glass melting furnaces. The “36” designation indicates a nominal zirconia (ZrO₂) content of approximately 36% , offering enhanced corrosion resistance compared to standard AZS 33 grades while maintaining excellent glass quality compatibility.
Manufactured through advanced electric fusion casting technology, AZS 36 blocks feature a dense microstructure of deeply interlocked baddeleyite (ZrO₂) and corundum (Al₂O₃) crystals. This unique structure provides superior resistance to the aggressive chemical attack of molten glass, particularly in areas subjected to higher temperatures and more severe erosion. These blocks are the preferred choice for extending furnace campaign life in critical wear zones.
Key Features & Benefits
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Superior Corrosion Resistance: The elevated zirconia content (36%) creates a more robust crystal network that significantly outperforms lower zirconia grades in resisting molten glass corrosion. This translates directly to slower wear rates and longer furnace life in critical areas.
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Enhanced High-Temperature Performance: With a higher liquidus temperature and increased viscosity of the interstitial glass phase, AZS 36 blocks maintain their integrity better at elevated operating temperatures, making them ideal for boosted furnaces or those processing aggressive glass compositions.
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Optimized Crystal Structure: The electrofusion process produces large, interlocking zirconia crystals that form a physical barrier against glass penetration, effectively limiting the corrosion mechanism to a slower, controlled process.
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Excellent Glass Quality Compatibility: Despite the higher zirconia content, the carefully controlled glass phase composition and low porosity minimize the risk of stone and cord formation, ensuring compatibility with high-quality glass production.
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Superior Thermal Shock Resistance: The dense but microcrack-resistant structure provides good resistance to thermal cycling, crucial for furnace maintenance cycles and startup/shutdown operations.
Applications
Fused Cast AZS 36 blocks are specifically engineered for the highest wear areas of glass furnaces where standard AZS 33 grades may reach their performance limits:
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Critical Glass Contact Areas: Sidewall blocks in the hottest part of the melting tank, particularly for furnaces producing container glass, flat glass, and tableware.
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Electrode Blocks: Areas surrounding electric boosting electrodes, where higher temperatures and electromagnetic stirring accelerate corrosion.
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Throat and Doghouse: The most severely eroded zones of any glass furnace, requiring maximum corrosion resistance.
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Flow Channels and Forehearths: Where glass velocity and temperature combine to create aggressive wear conditions.
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Furnace Bottom Paving: Especially in the melting zone where heavier wear occurs.
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Bubbler Blocks: Areas subjected to localized turbulence and thermal stress.
Why Choose Our AZS 36?
Our Fused Cast AZS 36 blocks are manufactured under strict ISO quality standards, with particular attention to the annealing process—critical for stress-free blocks that resist cracking during installation and furnace heat-up. Each block undergoes rigorous dimensional inspection and quality control testing to ensure consistent performance.
We understand that furnace downtime is expensive. By choosing our premium AZS 36 grade for your critical wear zones, you are making a strategic investment in extended furnace life and reduced maintenance intervals.
For Inquiries:
Contact our technical sales team for application engineering support, custom sizing, or to discuss which AZS grade is optimal for your specific furnace design and operating conditions. We provide detailed shop drawings and certification documents with every order.
