Introduction
Castable orice are versatile unshaped materials used in furnaces, boilers, and kilns. Unlike pre-fired bricks, they offer installation flexibility and seamless lining. This guide explains price determinants, how to evaluate suppliers, and smart procurement strategies.
Castable Price Breakdown
1. Material Composition
Castable price vary significantly based on alumina (Al₂O₃) content and additives:
| Al₂O₃ Content | Binder Type | Typical Price Range (USD/ton) |
|---|---|---|
| 40-50% | Calcium Aluminate | $300 – $600 |
| 60-70% | Low-Cement | $500 – $800 |
| 80-90% | Ultra-Low Cement | $1,100 – $1,600 |
| ≥95% | Pure Alumina | $1,800+ |
Key Cost Drivers:
- High-purity alumina: Adds 30-50% to material costs
- Special additives (e.g., SiC, ZrO₂): +$200-$800/ton
2. Performance Grade
| Property | Standard Grade | Premium Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Max. Service Temp | 1,400°C | 1,800°C |
| CCS (MPa) | 35 | 80 |
| Thermal Shock Resistance | 10 cycles | 50+ cycles |
| Price Premium | – | +40-70% |
3. Market Factors
- Raw material volatility: Bauxite prices fluctuate ±15% quarterly
- Shipping: Bulk shipments (20+ tons) reduce costs by 25%
- MOQ: Most suppliers require 5-ton minimum orders
Supplier Selection Criteria
Technical Capability Checklist
✅ Certifications: ISO 9001, ASTM C862 (mixing test)
✅ Testing Reports: Provide 3rd-party verified data for:
- Linear change after firing (ASTM C179)
- Thermal conductivity (ASTM C201)
✅ Custom Formulation: Adjust setting time (2-24 hrs)
Reliability Indicators
| Green Flag | Red Flag |
|---|---|
| On-site technical support | No batch testing records |
| 24-month warranty | <70% on-time delivery |
Procurement Guide
Step-by-Step Process
- Sample Testing (1-2 weeks)
- Request 50kg samples for installation trials
- Contract Terms
- Price adjustment clause for alumina price swings >10%
| Packaging | Shelf Life | Shipping Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Bulk (1-ton bags) | 6 months | $80/ton |
| 25kg bags | 12 months | $120/ton |
FAQ
Q: How to verify castable quality?
A: Conduct three tests:
1) Workability: Flow value ≥110%
2) Drying behavior: Cracks ≤0.5mm after 110°C
Q: Typical lead time?
- Standard grades: 2-3 weeks
Why Choose Kerui Refractories?
• 15+ years of castable production
• Free technical consultation
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