Ribtec Refractory Reinforcement Alfa 406 Stainless Steel Needles'

For the purpose of reinforcing Castable Refractory, made of 406 'Alfa' Stainless Steel (Superior to 304 or 310 SS). Each "needle" is 1 mm x 25 mm (.020 x 1")

Tips: 

1) Add 1 lb of Stainless needles per 55 lb bag of Castable for added Strength.  They minimize cracks and limit breakage if cracks occur, increasing lifespan (like rebar).

2) Heat new castables gradually &/or intermittently to slowly evaporate water vapor avoiding steam pressure's risk of forming cracks.

3) Use only recommended water.  Typical 5 to 6.5% water by weight.  Just 2% extra water (ie 8.5%) can decrease strength by 40% in some castables.

4) Vibration can help avoid voids (20 seconds with a vibrating sander) BUT avoid excess vibration to avoid weakening by stratification.

"After prolonged heat and thermal shock exposure, needles help maintain the integrity and mechanical properties of samples. The study also found that corrosion due to oxidation was a major contributing factor to the way needles performed, and concluded that a concentration of 3% 406 “Alfa 1” stainless steel reinforcing needles added to the working lining of a taconite furnace is recommended."

Sold in bags of 0.25 lb., 0.5lb. and 1 lb.