Standard Classification of Zircon Refractories

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
3.1 The zircon content and bulk density of a zirconia-silica refractory material have important influences on chemical resistance and its satisfactory use in refractory applications. This classification is considered useful for purchase specifications and quality control.
SCOPE
1.1 This classification covers fired refractory brick and shapes consisting predominantly of zircon (ZrO2·SiO2) and containing, by chemical analysis, not less than 60 % zirconium oxide (ZrO2) and not less than 30 % silica (SiO2).  
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.3 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

Status
Published
Publication Date
31-Aug-2022
Technical Committee
C08 - Refractories

Relations

Effective Date
01-Jul-2011
Effective Date
01-Jun-2006
Effective Date
01-Dec-2005
Effective Date
10-Apr-2000
Effective Date
10-Apr-2000

Overview

ASTM C545-97(2022): Standard Classification of Zircon Refractories is an international standard developed by ASTM International. This standard establishes criteria for classifying fired refractory bricks and shapes that are composed predominantly of zircon (ZrO₂·SiO₂) and contain, by chemical analysis, a minimum of 60% zirconium oxide (ZrO₂) and 30% silica (SiO₂). The classification helps support consistent quality control and purchase specifications within the refractories industry, ensuring that zircon refractories exhibit the required chemical resistance and performance for demanding applications.

Key Topics

  • Zircon Content and Bulk Density: The zircon content and the bulk density are critical properties affecting the chemical resistance and overall suitability of zirconia-silica refractory materials. Higher zircon content generally enhances durability in harsh operating environments.

  • Classification Types:

    • Type A (Regular): Zircon refractories with a bulk density of less than 240 lb/ft³ (3.84 g/cm³).
    • Type B (Dense): Zircon refractories with a bulk density of 240 lb/ft³ (3.84 g/cm³) or more.
  • Testing Methods: The standard references established ASTM methods for determining key properties:

    • Bulk Density: ASTM C20 or C830.
    • Chemical Analysis: X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and inductively coupled plasma (ICP), using standard reference materials.
  • Retesting Procedures: In the event of non-conforming initial test results, materials may be resampled and retested, with final acceptance based on the average from two complete sets of tests.

Applications

Zircon refractories classified under ASTM C545 are widely used in high-temperature industries where chemical resistance and structural integrity are essential. Typical applications include:

  • Glass Manufacturing: Utilized in furnaces and tanks that require refractories with superior resistance to glass corrosion.
  • Steel and Metallurgy: Employed in contact areas such as ladles, nozzles, and slide gates that must withstand direct exposure to molten metal and slag.
  • Ceramic and Foundry Sectors: Deployed in kiln linings and casting molds where consistent strength and chemical inertness are paramount.
  • Chemical Process Plants: Used where extreme temperatures and chemical exposure demand the highest performance from lining materials.

Related Standards

Understanding ASTM C545-97(2022) is facilitated by considering related standards, which provide additional guidance on test methods and material properties for refractories:

  • ASTM C20: Test Methods for Apparent Porosity, Water Absorption, Apparent Specific Gravity, and Bulk Density of Burned Refractory Brick and Shapes by Boiling Water.
  • ASTM C830: Test Methods for Apparent Porosity, Liquid Absorption, Apparent Specific Gravity, and Bulk Density of Refractory Shapes by Vacuum Pressure.

Other related classifications and material standards may be referenced for specifying minerals, chemical analysis, and additional refractory product requirements.


Keywords: ASTM C545, zircon refractories, zirconia-silica, refractory bricks, chemical resistance, bulk density, quality control, classification, fired shapes, ASTM standards

By adhering to ASTM C545-97(2022), manufacturers, purchasers, and quality assurance teams ensure that zircon refractory products are classified and tested to meet the rigorous needs of high-performance industrial applications.

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Frequently Asked Questions

ASTM C545-97(2022) is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Classification of Zircon Refractories". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 3.1 The zircon content and bulk density of a zirconia-silica refractory material have important influences on chemical resistance and its satisfactory use in refractory applications. This classification is considered useful for purchase specifications and quality control. SCOPE 1.1 This classification covers fired refractory brick and shapes consisting predominantly of zircon (ZrO2·SiO2) and containing, by chemical analysis, not less than 60 % zirconium oxide (ZrO2) and not less than 30 % silica (SiO2). 1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. 1.3 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 3.1 The zircon content and bulk density of a zirconia-silica refractory material have important influences on chemical resistance and its satisfactory use in refractory applications. This classification is considered useful for purchase specifications and quality control. SCOPE 1.1 This classification covers fired refractory brick and shapes consisting predominantly of zircon (ZrO2·SiO2) and containing, by chemical analysis, not less than 60 % zirconium oxide (ZrO2) and not less than 30 % silica (SiO2). 1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. 1.3 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

ASTM C545-97(2022) is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 81.080 - Refractories. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

ASTM C545-97(2022) has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM C830-00(2011), ASTM C830-00(2006), ASTM C20-00(2005), ASTM C830-00, ASTM C20-00. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.

ASTM C545-97(2022) is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.

Standards Content (Sample)


This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: C545 −97 (Reapproved 2022)
Standard Classification of
Zircon Refractories
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C545; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
of minerals and refractory materials which are available from the National
1. Scope
Institute of Standards and Technology and other appropriate sources.
1.1 This classification covers fired refractory brick and
shapes consisting predominantly of zircon (ZrO ·SiO ) and
2 2
3. Significance and Use
containing, by chemical analysis, not less than 60 % zirconium
3.1 The zircon content and bulk density of a zirconia-silica
oxide (ZrO ) and not less than 30 % silica (SiO ).
2 2
refractory material have important influences on chemical
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
resistance and its satisfactory use in refractory applications.
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
This classification is considered useful for purchase specifica-
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
tions and quality control.
and are not considered standard.
1.3 This international standard was developed in accor-
4. Basis of Classification
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
4.1 Types:
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
4.1.1 Type A (Regular)—Zircon refractories having a bulk
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom- 3 3
density of less than 240 lb/ft (3.84 g/cm ).
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
4.1.2 Type B (Dense)—Zircon refractories having a bulk
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee. 3 3
density of 240 lb/ft (3.84 g/cm ) or more.
2. Referenced Documents
5. Test Methods
2.1 ASTM Standards:
5.1 The properties listed in this classification shall be
C20 Test Methods for Apparent Porosity, Water Absorption,
determined by the following ASTM methods:
Apparent Specific Gravity, and Bulk Density of Burned
5.1.1 Bulk Density—Test Methods C20 or C830.
Refractory Brick and Shapes by Boiling Water
5.1.2 Chemical Analysis—XRF and ICP.
C830 Test Methods for Apparent Porosity, Liquid
Absorption, Apparent Specific Gravity, and Bulk Density
6. Retests
of Refractory Shapes by Vacuum Pressure
6.1 Because of variables resulting from sampling and the
NOTE 1—Chemical analysis of refractory products is determined by a
lack of satisfactory reproducibility in tests conducted by
combination of X-ray fluor
...

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