Manufacture of refractory products

isic code 2391 covers the manufacture of refractory products, which are materials designed to withstand high temperatures and are essential for a wide range of industrial processes. This industry plays a crucial role in supporting various sectors, including construction, metal production, and chemical manufacturing, by providing the specialized materials required for furnaces, kilns, and other high-heat applications. The manufacture of refractory products is a key component of the broader industrial supply chain, contributing to the efficient and effective operation of many industries that are vital to the global economy.

The production of refractory products typically involves a series of steps, including the selection and preparation of raw materials, such as clay, silica, and alumina. These materials are then crushed, mixed, and formed into the desired shapes, often using techniques like pressing, extrusion, or casting. The shaped products are then subjected to high-temperature firing or sintering processes, which fuse the materials and impart the necessary heat-resistant properties. Quality control and testing are critical throughout the manufacturing process to ensure the products meet the required specifications and performance standards.

The manufacture of refractory products relies on a range of raw materials, including 1410 Clay and kaolin, 0810 Quarrying of stone, sand, and clay, and 2013 Manufacture of other inorganic basic chemicals. Additionally, specialized machinery and equipment, such as kilns, presses, and mixing systems, are essential for the production of these high-performance materials. The industry also requires a skilled workforce with expertise in materials science, process engineering, and quality control.

The primary outputs of the refractory products industry are a diverse range of heat-resistant materials, including bricks, tiles, blocks, and other shaped products. These outputs are consumed by a variety of industries, such as 2410 Manufacture of basic iron and steel, 2310 Manufacture of glass and glass products, and 2011 Manufacture of industrial gases, which rely on refractory products for the construction and maintenance of furnaces, kilns, and other high-temperature equipment.