1.1 This report documents the results of thermal expansion under load (TEUL) and creep in compression testing conducted by ASTM C832 and DIN 993–9 (same test as ISO 3187).
1.2 The prime objective for this study is to determine if one or both tests should replace the ASTM C16 method. ASTM C16, modifed from 1.5-hour to 100-hour hold, has been widely used to qualify brick for sulfur reaction furnace use. In addition to deformation after 100 hours, the creep tests will provide additional information of TEUL and evidence of mineralogical changes during their early life cycle in process operation.
1.3 The second objective for this study is to better defne a refractory specifcation protocol for premium brick used at high temperatures while supporting a load. Hold temperature in this testing was 1600 °C (3000 °F). This temperature is designed to simulate operating conditions of oxygen-boosted thermal reactors, as well those occurring during over-temperature excursions.
1.4 Orton Memorial Laboratory was selected to do all testing, as this laboratory can test both DIN and ASTM specimens in the same furnaces. Orton used a laser non-contact measurement method for both the ASTM and DIN samples. This allowed an evaluation only of the laser method while still facilitating evaluations of diferences in heating rates, applied compressive load, and hold-time durations.
