Abstract: Binding systems are described for applying compressive forces on the refractory hearth and/or refractory sidewall of a circular furnace having an outer metal shell which may be segmented. One preferred binding system comprises a tensioning band having one or more segments which extends around the furnace hearth and/or sidewall, with a resilient connection being provided between the opposite ends of the band and, where the band is segmented, resilient connections are also provided between the ends of adjacent segments. Another preferred binding system comprises a plurality of pivoting members provided around the circumference of the furnace. Each pivoting member is acted upon by a force-generating member which applies a controlled amount of force to the pivoting member and causes it to apply a compressive force to the hearth.

Abstract: A binding system for applying a vertical compressive force to the refractory walls of a rectangular or circular furnace comprises a compressive member engaging a laterally extending surface of the furnace wall and a support member to which the compressive member is connected. The compressive member preferably comprises a coil spring which acts directly on the laterally extending surface or indirectly through a force-applying member. The force applied by the compressive member is sufficient to control vertical expansion and substantially prevent vertical expansion of the furnace walls due to infiltration of material into the joints between the refractory bricks during operation of the furnace.

Abstract: A furnace binding and adjustment system for maintaining a refractory furnace hearth under compression utilizes a plurality of buckstays connected at their upper and lower ends by tie members. A fluid-pressurized tensioning device, preferably a hydraulics device, is provided at the ends of at least some of the tie members to permit some relative movement between the tie member end and the buckstay to permit adjustment of compressive forces applied to the refractory hearth. The use of multiple hydraulic devices permits simultaneous activation of the tensioning devices, and also permits the hydraulic pressure in the cylinders to be accurately adjusted and monitored from a remote location.

Abstract: A furnace binding and adjustment system for maintaining a refractory furnace hearth under compression utilizes a plurality of buckstays connected at their upper and lower ends by tie members. A fluid-pressurized tensioning device, preferably a hydraulics device, is provided at the ends of at least some of the tie members to permit some relative movement between the tie member end and the buckstay to permit adjustment of compressive forces applied to the refractory hearth. The use of multiple hydraulic devices permits simultaneous activation of the tensioning devices, and also permits the hydraulic pressure in the cylinders to be accurately adjusted and monitored from a remote location.