Graphite is one of the most common materials used in the production of functional refractories for the continuous casting of steel. In this application graphite flake is mixed with alumina and zirconia and then isostatically pressed to form components such as stopper rods, subentry nozzles and ladle shrouds used in both regulating flow of molten steel and protecting against oxidation
As a chemically inert, highly resistant component featuring high thermal conductivity, graphite has a permanent place in modern refractory applications such as blast furnace linings and crucibles or in modern foundry technology.