For glass manufacturers and technical procurement managers, selecting high-performance refractory materials is critical—not just for operational efficiency but also for long-term cost control and safety. Among the most trusted options in high-temperature glass melting furnaces is electrofused AZS-36, a zirconia-alumina-silica brick known for its exceptional resistance to chemical erosion.
One of the key performance indicators that often goes overlooked is apparent porosity. In electrofused AZS-36, this value typically ranges from 0.5% to 1.0%, which is significantly lower than standard fused cast bricks (often 2–4%). This low porosity directly correlates with reduced infiltration of molten glass and corrosive vapors into the brick structure—minimizing internal degradation over time.
| Performance Metric | AZS-36 (Electrofused) | Standard Fused Cast AZS |
|---|---|---|
| Apparent Porosity (%) | ≤1.0% | 2.0–4.0% |
| Cold Crushing Strength (MPa) | ≥120 MPa | 80–100 MPa |
| High-Temperature Corrosion Rate (g/cm²/h) | ≤0.15 g/cm²/h | 0.3–0.6 g/cm²/h |
The chemistry behind this performance lies in the precise balance of three oxides: Al₂O₃ (~36%), ZrO₂ (~36%), and SiO₂ (~28%). These proportions are not arbitrary—they’re engineered to form a dense, crystalline microstructure during the electrofusion process, resulting in superior thermal shock resistance and minimal deformation under prolonged exposure to 1500°C+ environments.
Unlike some regional suppliers who may skip formal certification, reputable manufacturers of AZS-36 comply with ISO 10780:2017 standards for fused cast refractories. This ensures consistent quality across batches, traceability of raw materials, and compliance with environmental and safety protocols—especially important when sourcing internationally.
When evaluating vendors, always ask for batch-specific test reports showing actual values for porosity, strength, and corrosion rate—not just marketing claims. A certified product gives you peace of mind and reduces the risk of unexpected downtime or furnace lining failure.
Pro Tip: If your current supplier doesn’t provide ISO-certified documentation or detailed lab results, it’s worth exploring alternatives—even if they appear slightly more expensive upfront.
If you're responsible for procurement, maintenance planning, or plant operations in the glass industry, understanding these technical parameters empowers smarter decisions. Don't rely on generic specs—dig deeper into what truly matters: durability, consistency, and real-world performance.
