How often does an induction furnace crucible need to be relined?

Crucible service life varies considerably depending on the melt material and operating regime. For cast iron, 300–800 heats are typical, for cast steel 150–400 heats. Through optimum material selection and careful sintering of the lining mix, we maximise the campaign length for your specific application.

What safety requirements apply to transfer vessels in the foundry?

Transfer ladles and crucibles are subject to strict safety requirements, as refractory failure with liquid metal can have fatal consequences. We rely on multi-layer safety concepts with a permanent lining and a wear lining, as well as regular inspections. Every lining is documented and approved.

Can you also respond at short notice to a crucible failure?

Yes, our on-call service is available outside regular working hours. As a rule, we can provide material and personnel within 24 hours. For existing customers we keep common lining mixes in stock to further shorten the response time.

Which lining mixes are suitable for induction furnaces with different melt materials?

The choice of material depends on the melt: for cast iron we use acidic silica mixes or neutral alumina mixes, for cast steel basic magnesia mixes with high slag resistance. For non-ferrous metals, alumina or spinel mixes are used. We advise you independently of any manufacturer and select the optimum mix for your specific melting conditions.

Reliable melting units for foundry operations

Foundries

Foundries need reliable melting units with high availability. Whether cupola furnace, induction melting furnace or transfer ladle – we provide optimum linings that meet the specific requirements of foundry operation.

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120+

Foundry projects completed

1,600 °C

Max. operating temperature

25+

Years of foundry experience

95%

Returning customers

Industry expertise

Refractory construction for Foundries

Foundry operation places particular demands on refractory linings: high furnace availability, short repair times and reproducible melt quality are decisive for profitability. Every unplanned furnace shutdown directly affects delivery capability and customer satisfaction – a reliable refractory solution is therefore essential.

SBS Refractory Service has been a partner to iron, steel and non-ferrous metal foundries for decades. We know the particularities of induction melting furnaces, cupola furnaces and the associated transfer vessels. Our material selection takes into account the specific melting metallurgy and the requirements for cleanliness and reproducibility.

From planning and installation to periodic inspection, we support the entire life cycle of your melting units. Our installers are experienced in working in foundry operations and know the operational procedures – for minimum disruption to production and maximum lining quality.

Typical challenges

Cyclic thermal loading from frequent melting and cooling cycles in the induction furnace
Chemical attack on the crucible lining by iron oxide-rich slags
Mechanical wear during charging and melt extraction
High demands on crucible service life combined with tight cost targets
Safety risks from refractory failure on transfer vessels carrying liquid metal

Furnace types