Refraction in a metallurgical context refers to a material's thermal stability and resistance to melting, softening, or chemical degradation at high heat. It is the core property required for furnace linings, crucibles, and high-temperature alloys. Materials with high refraction maintain their structural integrity even when exposed to molten metals and aggressive slags.
Heard on the job
We need to check the refraction of this new brick before we line the induction furnace with it.
Also heard as
- refractoriness