Measure Twice POUR Once
Everybody has heard the carpentry phrase, “Measure twice cut once.” With a slight variation, this phrase can be applied to casting refractories. “Measure twice POUR once.”
When building forms, it is critical to verify that they are built properly prior to pouring the materials. When verifying form construction there are several characteristics to check. First is the dimensional accuracy of the form. It is important to make sure that the final pour will match the intended size, shape, and configuration.
Next, it is important to verify that the form does not have any potential seepage points or any internal obstructions. Seepage points can create a mess or a potential material shortage. Internal obstructions can create voids and weak spots.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, it is important to verify the construction quality and strength of the form. Refractory materials can be very dense and the pressure that forms support can be massive. A form that is not properly supported can lead to a “blow-out” during a pour. This could have devastating safety impacts as well as very large impacts on project schedule and cost.
For the reasons outlined above it is always best to “Measure twice POUR once.”
If you would like more information about form construction and the lessons Schad has learned using refractory materials during the past 75 years. Reach out to us today.