Overview
EN ISO 1893:2008 (ISO 1893:2007) specifies a standardized laboratory method for determining the refractoriness under load of dense and insulating shaped refractory products. Using a differential method with rising temperature, the test measures deformation of a cylindrical test piece under a constant compressive load while the temperature is progressively increased (test temperatures up to 1 700 °C). This European adoption by CEN supersedes EN 993-8:1997 and is intended for reproducible assessment of behaviour of refractories under combined effects of load, time and rising temperature.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Principle: A cylindrical specimen is loaded with a specified constant compressive load; deformation is recorded as temperature rises and temperatures for specified proportional deformations are determined.
- Maximum test temperature: up to 1700 °C.
- Apparatus essentials:
- Loading device with fixed and moving columns (≥45 mm external diameter).
- Two refractory discs (5–10 mm thick, ≥50.5 mm diameter) between columns and specimen.
- Measuring device (dilatometer) using inner and outer alumina tubes to transmit displacement to an instrument (dial gauge or length transducer).
- Measuring sensitivity: at least 0.005 mm.
- Thermocouples: central thermocouple at mid-point of specimen and control thermocouple for furnace regulation (referenced to IEC 60584).
- Furnace requirements: vertical axis furnace capable of specified heating rate; temperature uniformity around the specimen (above 500 °C) within ±20 °C.
- Test procedure and reporting: specimen preparation, controlled heating rate, continuous deformation recording, calculation of results (temperatures corresponding to proportional subsidence), and a standardized test report.
- Normative references: ISO 3599 (callipers), IEC 60584‑1/2 (thermocouples).
Applications and who uses this standard
- Quality control and acceptance testing of shaped refractories used in steel, cement, glass, petrochemical and high-temperature industrial furnaces.
- Product development and comparative R&D to assess high‑temperature deformation under load.
- Materials engineers, refractory manufacturers, independent testing laboratories, certification bodies and plant operators who specify or validate refractory performance under service-like thermal and mechanical stress.
Related standards
- ISO 3599 - precision vernier callipers (measurement equipment)
- IEC 60584-1 / IEC 60584-2 - thermocouple reference tables and tolerances
- Superseded: EN 993-8:1997
EN ISO 1893:2008 is a practical, reproducible method for assessing the refractoriness under load of shaped refractory products, helping manufacturers and end-users ensure material selection and performance for high‑temperature service.