Refractory Sleeve or Tip for Continuous Casting

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Refractory Sleeve or Tip

Definition

The refractory sleeve or tip is the critical wear component at the distal end of a stopper rod system in continuous casting operations. It directly contacts molten steel and regulates the flow rate through the tundish nozzle into the mold. Its precise geometry and refractory properties ensure controlled solidification and prevent nozzle clogging. This component is typically manufactured from alumina, zirconia, magnesia, or graphite-based refractories, selected for their resistance to thermal shock, chemical erosion, and mechanical wear. The operating temperature range is 1500–1700°C, with thermal shock resistance of at least 30 cycles without cracking (ISO 5104). Apparent porosity is 15–20% (ISO 5017), bulk density 2.2–2.6 g/cm³ (ISO 5017), cold crushing strength ≥60 MPa (ISO 10059-1), and modulus of rupture ≥10 MPa (ISO 5014). Thermal conductivity is 2.0–3.5 W/(m·K) (ISO 8894-1), and coefficient of thermal expansion is 5–7 ×10⁻⁶/°C (ISO 17562). The component is available in lengths of 150–300 mm and outer diameters of 50–100 mm, with a tolerance of ±1.0 mm (ISO 2768-m). Weight ranges from 1.5–3.0 kg depending on size and density. These values are reference ranges; actual specifications must be confirmed with the manufacturer for the specific application. The component must match the stopper rod material to avoid stress, and proper sealing is ensured by dimensional accuracy. Regular inspection for cracks, erosion, or wear is necessary to maintain performance and prevent failure.

Working Principle

The refractory tip forms a seal with the tundish nozzle. By raising or lowering the stopper rod assembly, the gap between the tip and nozzle is adjusted, controlling the molten metal flow rate. It withstands extreme thermal shock, chemical erosion from slag, and mechanical wear during operation. The tip's geometry and material properties are critical for maintaining a controlled flow and preventing nozzle clogging. The operating principle relies on the precise positioning of the tip relative to the nozzle, which is achieved through the stopper rod mechanism. The refractory material must maintain its integrity under high temperatures and thermal cycling to ensure consistent performance.

Common Materials

Alumina (Al2O3), Zirconia (ZrO2), Magnesia (MgO), Graphite

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Operating Temperature	1500–1700 °C	Above 1700°C thermal shock resistance decreases
Thermal Shock Resistance	≥30 cycles	Minimum cycles without crackingISO 5104
Apparent Porosity	15–20 %	Higher porosity reduces slag resistanceISO 5017
Bulk Density	2.2–2.6 g/cm³	Lower density may affect erosion resistanceISO 5017
Cold Crushing Strength	≥60 MPa	Minimum strength for handling and installationISO 10059-1
Modulus of Rupture	≥10 MPa	Indicates resistance to bending stressesISO 5014
Thermal Conductivity	2.0–3.5 W/(m·K)	Lower conductivity reduces heat lossISO 8894-1
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion	5–7 ×10⁻⁶/°C	Must match stopper rod material to avoid stressISO 17562
Length	150–300 mm	Custom lengths available on request
Outer Diameter	50–100 mm	Must fit stopper rod end
Tolerance	±1.0 mm	Ensures proper sealingISO 2768-m
Weight	1.5–3.0 kg	Depends on size and density

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM

Refractory Body Part
Main structural element providing thermal and chemical resistance.

Material: Alumina-Zirconia composite
Bore Lining Part
Inner surface that contacts molten metal, designed to minimize turbulence and erosion.

Material: High-purity alumina

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Stopper Rod (Stopper Rod System)

View system integration details

Manufacturers of Refractory Sleeve or Tip

Manufacturer profiles associated with Refractory Sleeve or Tip.

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Compiled and source-reviewed by the CNFX editorial team. Each manufacturer above links to the page on that company's own website where the product is listed, with the date we checked it. How we source and review · Page last updated 6 September 2026

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical operating temperature range for this refractory tip?

The reference operating temperature range is 1500–1700°C. However, thermal shock resistance decreases above 1700°C, so the actual limit depends on the specific material and application. Always verify with the manufacturer.

What standards are relevant for verifying the quality of this component?

Relevant standards include ISO 5104 for thermal shock resistance, ISO 5017 for apparent porosity and bulk density, ISO 10059-1 for cold crushing strength, ISO 5014 for modulus of rupture, ISO 8894-1 for thermal conductivity, and ISO 17562 for coefficient of thermal expansion. These standards are for reference; actual compliance must be confirmed with the supplier.

How does the refractory tip prevent nozzle clogging?

The tip's precise geometry and refractory properties help maintain a controlled flow of molten metal, reducing the likelihood of solidification or buildup at the nozzle. The material's resistance to thermal shock and erosion also helps maintain a clean flow path.

What are the key dimensions and tolerances for this component?

Reference dimensions include lengths of 150–300 mm, outer diameters of 50–100 mm, and a tolerance of ±1.0 mm (ISO 2768-m). Custom lengths are available on request. Ensure the dimensions match the stopper rod end for proper sealing.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification

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pressure:	0.1-0.5 MPa (hydrostatic head dependent)
flow rate:	1-5 tons/min (continuous casting range)
temperature:	1500-1700°C (typical steel casting)
slurry concentration:	Not applicable (handles molten metal only)

Refractory Sleeve or Tip

Product Specifications

Applied To / Applications

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards