Abstract: An improved refractory support (kiln furniture) and a method of manufacture. The composition of the refractory support reduces the likelihood that it will adhere to the article which it is supporting during manufacturing. The kiln furniture is formed from bound ceramic fibers of aluminosilicate and alumina with a ground particulate filler of aluminosilicate and alumina, and refractory reactive binder of alumina and silica in a colloidal form.

Abstract: A refractory, heat-insulating slab for use in an inner, expendable lining of a tundish has a facing comprising magnesium oxide, inorganic binder but substantially no organic matter and a different backing. The facing has a combined water content not exceeding 2% by weight and the backing has a permeability of at least 10 AFS units. The facing and backing are joined together during formation of the facing or the backing. In the continuous casting of steel, the slabs have the advantage that there is little or no tendency for a significant amount of hydrogen to be picked up by the steel.