Overview
ISO 16334:2013 specifies a laboratory method to determine the resistance to explosive spalling of monolithic refractory products. The method is presented as a practical, comparative test useful for material development and monolithic design; it is not intended as an acceptance test for production lots. Key elements include specimen casting and curing, controlled heating in a kiln, and observation of explosive spalling events.
Key Topics
- Principle: Cast specimens are cured, enclosed in an explosion-proof cage and placed into a preheated kiln. Explosion events and specimen condition are recorded to classify resistance.
- Specimen dimensions and preparation: Test specimens are cast per ISO 1927-5 using an 80 mm diameter by 80 mm height split cylindrical mould; dimensions accurate to 1 mm. Specimens must be prevented from drying prior to testing and cured at 20 °C to 25 °C with testing performed after at least 24 h curing (not exceeding 28 h) unless otherwise agreed.
- Apparatus: Essential items specified include a split cylindrical mould with in-situ thermocouple provision, thin wire thermocouple (preferably Type K), temperature recorder (±1 °C), an explosion-proof stainless steel mesh cage (approx. 150 mm cube with ≥60 % openings), a kiln capable of rapid temperature recovery (±5 °C within 5 min), and a timing device accurate to 1 s.
- Procedure highlights:
- Preheat kiln to 600 °C or higher if agreed.
- Place specimen in explosion-proof cage, position thermocouple if used, and insert into the kiln; start timer and recorder.
- Record times of audible explosions and leave the specimen in the kiln for 20 min as a safety precaution before removal.
- Classify specimen condition as No damage, Damage (minor surface damage; popouts