Manufacture of refractory products

NACE code 23.2 covers the manufacture of refractory products, which are materials designed to withstand high temperatures and maintain their structural integrity in harsh environments. This industry plays a crucial role in supporting various sectors, including steel production, glass manufacturing, and the construction of industrial furnaces and kilns. The refractory products industry is an essential component of the broader manufacturing landscape, contributing to the efficient and reliable operation of many energy-intensive and high-temperature industrial processes.

The manufacture of refractory products typically involves a series of complex processes. Raw materials, such as clay, silica, and various mineral additives, are carefully selected and blended to achieve the desired properties. These materials are then subjected to high-temperature firing or sintering, which fuses the components and imparts the necessary thermal and mechanical resistance. Depending on the specific product, additional shaping, molding, or pressing techniques may be employed to create the desired form and dimensions.

The refractory products industry relies on a range of raw materials, including clay, silica, alumina, and various mineral additives. These materials are sourced from mining and mineral processing operations, which are often classified under 08.1 Mining of stone, sand and clay and 23.9 Manufacture of other non-metallic mineral products. Additionally, the industry requires specialized machinery and equipment for the production processes, such as kilns, presses, and molding tools.

The primary outputs of the refractory products industry are a diverse range of materials designed to withstand high temperatures and harsh environments. These include bricks, blocks, tiles, and other shaped products used in the construction of industrial furnaces, kilns, and other high-temperature equipment. The refractory products manufactured under NACE code 23.2 are typically consumed by industries such as 24.1 Manufacture of basic iron and steel and of ferro-alloys, 23.1 Manufacture of glass and glass products, and 23.3 Manufacture of clay building materials, among others.