A letter from the editor
Refractories rarely make headlines, yet they make modern life possible. They protect against high temperatures, retain heat, withstand corrosive slags, metals, and other chemically harsh environments, and safeguard the assets that produce our steel, nonferrous metals, cement, and glass. Today, these materials are more than passive linings—they are active levers for decarbonisation, digital control, and resource resilience. This issue brings their broader role into focus—spanning recycling, higher customer yields, smarter lining operations, and process-driven product innovation.
In the steelmaking industry, metal yield is a critical performance indicator directly linked to operational efficiency, cost competitiveness, and sustainability targets. RHI Magnesita’s Improved Bottom Optimised Solution (IBOS) is a patented refractory technology designed to maximise metal yield in secondary steel refining by minimising residual steel after tapping. The system features a fully precast, high-performance refractory ladle bottom engineered to improve flow and reduce waste, while also enhancing occupational safety and ergonomics during installation.
The circular economy is evolving from a desired goal to common practice in the refractory industry. This is evident in “recycling-first” formulations that replace primary minerals without compromising performance; industrial manufacturing systems that extract value from fractions previously destined for landfills; and more rigorous validation in practice. Collectively, these developments lead to lower product carbon footprints and promote more sustainable operations. Fine reclaimed refractory materials that were previously difficult to reuse are now being applied extensively for slag conditioning, advanced fillers, and even future geopolymers. This progress is made possible by new sorting and analysis techniques supported by artificial intelligence.
Digitalisation is transforming how we design, inspect, and operate linings. Predictive models that combine process data with fast, reliable measurements are shifting decision-making upstream—from reactive repairs to planned performance. For example, a data‑driven blast furnace runner wear model gives operators the confidence to extend campaigns safely and avoid unnecessary drainages—saving metal, time, and emissions. 3D laser scanning, together with CAD‑based reference models enable quick and accurate measurement of refractory wear in nonferrous furnaces—without waiting for full cool‑downs or perfect baseline scans. These digital advancements represent further ways RHI Magnesita supports more efficient metallurgical operations.
Many thanks to all colleagues, customers, and editorial staff worldwide who helped put this issue together—and thank you for joining us on this journey into the world of refractories.
Yours sincerely
