Refractory Materials handling involves the movement, protection, storage and control of refractory materials throughout the various stages of manufacturing, warehousing, distribution and transportation.
The proper handling of refractory materials has a significant effect on the quality of refractory installation, speed of installation, refractory life and successful refractory shutdown maintenance. This article briefly describes the handling of refractory materials before they are delivered to the end user’s premises.
DISPATCH
Generally, it is the responsibility of the supplier to assure the refractory materials’ quality to a point or the port of exit. Our focus will therefore be from the receiving end.
TRANSIT
If end-user or buyer is handling logistics, it is critical that the staff involved are trained on proper handling refractory materials. This typically entails the following:
Ensuring quality inspection reports are provided and that packaging standards are followed particularly for overseas transportation.
Strict monitoring and supervision during movement
Ensuring that the product is insured for any damages during road or sea freight in order to mitigate any losses.
Inspecting the packaging condition and shelf life.
Inspection of refractory hydration if the product is prone to hydration.
CONSEQUENCES OF POOR REFRACTORY HANDLING
Hydrated and /or defective refractory
Wrong refractory delivery and under-delivery
Delays and mistakes in refractory movement from stores to working site
Project execution delays due to material shortages
Premature refractory failure
Increased cost of production due to premature refractory failure
The next article shall discuss the handling of refractory materials once they have been delivered to the end user’s site.