Modeling of strength degradation during water quench test of low cement high alumina castable

Abstract

Low cement high alumina castable was synthesized, cured, and then sintered at 1100 degrees C for 3 hours. Water quench test was used as an experimental method for thermal stability testing. Image analysis program was applied in order to measure the damage to the samples at the sutface and in the bulk before and during the water quench test. Ultrasonic measurements were carried out with the aim of measuring the changes of ultrasonic velocity. Strength degradation of the samples was calculated by using the model based on ultrasonic velocity changes during water quench test. Also, the strength of the samples before and during water quench test was measured by standard laboratory procedure. The model for prediction of strength degradation is presented.