This precast refractory panel acts as a vertical sliding gate for small ovens, reheat furnaces, or glass forehearths. It is suspended by a cable and counterweight system, allowing operators to quickly raise and lower the heavy slab to access the hot face while minimizing heat loss. The cake is typically cast from a high-strength monolithic material to survive repeated thermal shock and mechanical impact.
The cable snapped on number two shear cake and dropped it right onto the sill, cracking the bottom edge.
Related terms
Slide gate
Valve of sliding refractory plates under a ladle or tundish that controls the flow of molten steel.
Castable
Dry refractory mix of aggregate, fines and binder that is mixed with water and poured or pumped like concrete.
Thermal shock resistance
Ability of a refractory to survive rapid temperature changes without cracking and spalling.