A multilevel model for description of thermomechanical fracture of refractory linings of high-temperature equipment

The paper considers the issue of determining the resource of refractory linings of high-temperature industrial units by mathematical modeling of crack growth in the framework of a multilevel approach. The study was carried out using the finite element simulation and experimental data on the thermophysical and mechanical characteristics of refractory. At the level of lining, zones of increased cracking (areas with the highest level of thermally induced stresses and strains) were identified. Next, on the scales of individual products and representative volumes of refractory material, crack growth was simulated with use of previously calculated stresses and strains in the lining as boundary conditions. The relationship between thermal impact on the refractory lining of equipment and its stress-strain state is shown. Taking into account the known stress-strain state, the method for determining the direction of crack growth is considered.