A theta projection model for compressive creep behaviour of refractories at high temperature: application to alumina-spinel

Abstract

Thermomechanical loads are normally applied to refractory materials throughout their service life whichever is their practical use (e.g. steel ladle, rotary kiln furnaces). Among all the phenomena that the refractories are exposed to, the influence of creep behaviour is essential in determining their performance. Creep of refractories is usually represented by simple creep laws such as Norton-Bailey, which lack the capacity for generalization. The theta projection creep method, on the other hand, was proposed in the twentieth century to predict the creep of metals and alloys across different temperatures and stresses. The model is represented by one exponential equation capable of representing the complete creep curve, and coefficients that are temperature and stress-dependent, thus enabling the representation of complex nonlinear creep behaviour. Since refractories have similar creep responses to metals, the theta projection creep model is validated to characterize the compressive creep behaviour of alumina-spinel refractories at temperatures between 1200 and 1500 °C. Creep data from steady-state and transient temperature creep tests are used to calibrate the model. A regression by the least square method is applied to calculate the model’s parameters. The model shows good flexibility in fitting the test data of the alumina-spinel refractory over the three creep stages. A temperature and stress dependence model is derived for the theta coefficients, reducing the number of material parameters necessary to describe the material's behaviour. The experimental creep curves are presented, as well as the curves resulting from the identified parameters. The implications of the chosen creep data set on the definition of the model and its adequacy for this novel application are discussed.