Refratechnik Steel GmbH (Düsseldorf, Germany):

M. Specht, Mag. Eng., Head of Direction “Sales of Joint Element Constructions”

thyssenkrupp Steel Europe (Duisburg, Germany):
A. Baaske, Mag. Eng., Quality Manager, Development of Systems and Processes

КBS Kokereibetriebsgesellschaft Schwelgern GmbH (Duisburg, Germany):
M. Cremer, Mag. Eng., Head of Mechanical Technical Maintenance Service, e-mail: michael.cremer@thyssenkrupp.com

The first stage of research included improvement of properties, e.g. ability for thermocycling, based on standard quality level and owing to addition of quartz glass. Steel fibers resistant to high temperature were introduced in improved material at the second stage; they increased material resistance to cracking and impede their crumbling. These effects were confirmed also during operation of finished products on the largest furnaces worldwide. The coke oven door that has been manufactured on the base of concrete and quartz glass with steel fibers, was investigated after 26 months of operation. Visual observation didn’t find any serious defects, only small cracks without any cracking system. Thereby it was concluded that steel fibers provide structural reinforcement and that this product could be used for one year more at least. The distinct contour also testified about absence of any crumbling. Economical effect was also examined. Quartz glass is more expensive than Cordierit material, and expenses for steel fibers should be added. However, these expenses are partly compensated because quartz glass density is lower and less amount of material is required for manufacture of finished products. At the same time improved properties and resistance testify that increased expenses for raw materials are economically expedient. It is recommended to analyze in the future necessity of use of high-quality concrete on the base of quartz glass. At present time the following investigations and testings of other raw materials with steel fibers are preparing.