ASTM C20 Key Properties of Burned Refractory Brick and Shapes by Boiling Water

    ASTM C20 Introduction

    ASTM C20 (Standard Test Methods for Apparent Porosity, Water Absorption, Specific Gravity, and Bulk Density of Refractory Brick by Boiling Water) provides standardized methods of measuring the important physical properties of the burned refractory bricks and shapes. Apparent porosity is the quantitative measure of available open pores, and water absorption is the material’s capacity to absorb water. Apparent specific gravity and bulk density help engineers to establish structural integrity and thermal resistance. ASTM C20 is therefore used to make quality checks, research, and compliance checks. The correct outcomes assist industries in selecting refractory materials that are durable in the furnace, kilns, and reactors.

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    Get Certified ASTM C20 Testing for Reliable Refractory Performance

    Accurate property evaluation is the key to reliable refractory performance. Certified testing guarantees that the materials are strong and durable according to industrial demands. In addition, regular testing minimizes the risk of failures in high-temperature situations. Laboratories provide controlled testing conditions and precise measurements. 

    Scope of ASTM C20 Test Standard

    • Measure the apparent porosity of refractory bricks.
    • Determines water absorption properties.
    • Determines apparent specific gravity.
    • Calculates the bulk density of burned shapes
    • Helps in quality control and product comparison.

    Equipment and Sample Preparation

    Weighing BalanceMeasures specimen weight accurately in dry and saturated states.
    Boiling Water TankProvides controlled boiling conditions for pore saturation.
    Suspension SetupEnables weight measurement while the specimen remains submerged.

    Use of ASTM C20

    • Determines the quality of refractory in industrial furnaces.
    • Assists in material choice in high-temperature systems.
    • Helps compare different refractory products

    Why Is Boiling Water Used in ASTM C20 Testing?

    The boiling water fully penetrated the open pores. This allows the elimination of trapped air and gives the correct saturation. Thus, it enhances the accuracy of porosity and absorption measurements. In the absence of adequate saturation, outcomes can underestimate the true pore volume.

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    In refractory materials, porosity and density have a direct relationship. The increased porosity tends to decrease bulk density and strength. Thus, the combined analysis of both values is conducted by engineers to comprehend the material performance. Proper assessment assists in choosing the materials for harsh environments.

    Common Challenges and Troubleshooting

    The errors that occur during testing are usually due to incomplete saturation or an irregular blotting method. Additionally, when the materials react with water, they might give wrong porosity values. Castable refractories can exhibit errors because of the rehydration of cement during testing. Moreover, specimen size/surface preparation is also incorrect, which influences accuracy. To address these problems, laboratories need to use uniform procedures, regulate sample preparation, and test only those that are reactive to water. Handling is important for achieving reliable, repeatable results.

    ASTM C20 Testing Technique Process, and Data Collection

    The initial stage of testing is specimen preparation and dimensional testing. The sample is dried by technicians, and its weight is noted. This is followed by boiling of the specimen to fill open pores. Suspended and saturated weights are measured after cooling. Apparent porosity, water absorption, apparent specific gravity, and bulk density are determined using these values.

    Testing Procedure and Requirements

    ASTM C20 determines properties by controlled, weighed boiling water saturation and weighing. Technicians cut a brick into four equal parts to expose its interior, then place them in boiling water. Once they are saturated, they record the weights in the dry, suspended, and saturated conditions. These values are used to compute the porosity, density, and absorption. Other ASTM documents mentioned in this standard include ASTM C830.

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    Specimen PreparationSamples are cut to standard size with original surfaces maintained for accuracy.
    Boiling TreatmentSpecimens are boiled in water to ensure full saturation of open pores.
    Weight MeasurementDry, suspended, and saturated weights are recorded for calculations.
    The image shows a porosity density tester used for mechanical tests such as tension and compression, evaluated according to ASTM C20 standard.
    Porosity Density Tester

    Analysis Results and Interpretation

    ASTM C20 reports results in inch-pound units. Porosity and water absorption are expressed as percentages. Bulk density is given in pounds per cubic foot (lb/ft3), whereas apparent specific gravity is a dimensionless number. An increase in porosity implies an increased presence of open pores, whereas an increase in density implies increased material structure. Engineers decipher such values to decide whether to be used in high-temperature applications.

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    Link to ASTM C20 Standard

    FAQ

    Where can I get the astm c20 tested?
    You can share your astm c20 testing requirements with MaTestLab. MaTestLab has a vast network of material testing laboratories, spread across the USA and Canada. We support your all material testing needs ranging from specific astm c20 test to various testing techniques.
    Please contact us for a detailed quote for your astm c20 testing needs. Cost incurred to carry out different astm c20 testing methodology depends on the type of raw material; number of samples, coupons, or specimens; test conditions, turn around time etc. Costs of some ASTM testing methods start from $100 and the final value depends upon the factors listed above. Please contact us for the best and latest prices.
    The required number of samples or specimens should comply with the procedure given in the astm c20 standard. However, the MaTestLab operations team can assist you for your special requirements once you share your testing details with us.
    MaTestLab has a vast testing laboratory network, hence we bring you the best testing facilities in a cost-effective way. We offer considerable discounts (15-20%) to our returning customers based on test volume and frequency.
    The turnaround time for astm c20 test methodology depends upon the test procedure mentioned in the standard test document. However, we at MaTestLab understand your research requirements and hence try to get your test completed within the least possible time.
    Rohit Dhembare
    About Author
    Rohit Dhembare
    Rohit Dhembare is an Operations Associate at MaTestLab Inc. and holds a postgraduate degree in Organic Chemistry.
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