SIST EN 993-16:1998

Overview

SIST EN 993-16:1998 is a European standard developed by CEN that defines the methods of test for dense shaped refractory products, specifically focusing on the determination of resistance to sulphuric acid. This part of the EN 993 series specifies a standardized procedure for assessing how refractory materials withstand chemical attack from sulphuric acid, which is used as a representative acid. The rationale for using sulphuric acid in testing stems from its ability to simulate the typical effects of exposure to various acids, except hydrofluoric acid, on refractory materials.

This standard provides essential guidance for manufacturers, laboratories, and quality control teams involved in producing and testing dense refractory shapes to ensure durability and performance in acidic environments.

Key Topics

• Scope of Testing
  The standard focuses on dense shaped refractory products-materials designed to withstand high temperatures and harsh chemical environments. The test method characterizes the material’s resistance when exposed to sulphuric acid.

• Chemical Resistance Evaluation
  The test evaluates the degree to which refractory products resist degradation from acid attack, an important property for applications where chemical corrosion can impair material performance and lifespan.

• Representative Acid Use
  Sulphuric acid is selected due to its representative corrosive effects similar to many other industrial acids, enabling broad applicability of the test results.

• Test Procedure Outline
  While full procedural details are contained within the document, the standard generally defines sample preparation, acid exposure conditions, duration, temperature control, and assessment criteria for material degradation or weight loss.

Applications

• Industrial Furnaces and Kilns
  Dense shaped refractories are commonly used lining materials for furnaces and kilns where acidic atmospheres or process gases are present. Testing their resistance to sulphuric acid helps predict service life and maintenance needs.

• Chemical Processing Plants
  Plants handling acidic compounds require refractory linings that can resist chemical attack, ensuring safety and operational efficiency.

• Material Development and Quality Control
  Refractory manufacturers use SIST EN 993-16:1998 to test new product formulations and ensure consistent quality across production batches, optimizing materials for improved acid resistance.

• Compliance and Certification
  Meeting this European standard supports compliance with industry regulations and customer specifications demanding validated chemical resistance performance in refractory products.

Related Standards

• EN 993 Series
  The EN 993 collection addresses various test methods for dense shaped refractory materials, including physical and mechanical properties tests.

• ISO and ASTM Standards for Refractory Testing
  Other international standards complement EN 993-16 by covering additional chemical resistance tests or focusing on different acids and conditions.

• Standards for Refractory Materials in Acidic Environments
  Specific standards exist for testing resistance to other aggressive chemicals such as hydrofluoric acid, providing a comprehensive framework for refractory assessment under diverse attack scenarios.

By adhering to SIST EN 993-16:1998, manufacturers and users of dense shaped refractory products gain accurate, reproducible methods to evaluate sulphuric acid resistance-critical for applications demanding reliable chemical durability. This standard plays a vital role in quality assurance, material development, and operational longevity in refractory applications exposed to acid corrosion.