REFRACTOCAST ALF is a 1600 ºC potting grade of ceramic consisting mostly of fine particle aluminum oxide.  It exhibits extreme temperature resistance, high thermal conductivity, and good dielectric strength.  It can be in direct contact with heaters and still supply rigid strength.  It is used to pot electronic components when it is important to remove heat and hold the components in alignment.

 

 

REFRACTOCAST ALF is excellent for sensor applications, temperature probes and accelerometers where high thermal conductivity, electrical resistivity and rigidity are required.  REFRACTOCAST ALF is strong, offers good chemical resistance, and because it has a very fine grain structure, is excellent when fine detail is required.  REFRACTOCAST ALF is slightly porous so a surface sealer is recommended when porosity can not be tolerated.

 

 

 

Instructions for Use

 

 

REFRACTOCAST ALF is easy to use since it is a simple water mix similar to plaster of paris.  Slowly add small quantities of water into the powder mix, and continue adding water until a thick fluid is produced.  Mix slowly to insure that all the dry powder is incorporated into the thick fluid, and to avoid adding air into the mixture.  When the mixture is completed, pour slowly into your mold from one side so that it flows evenly over the components to be “potted”, driving the air out.  To eliminate any air bubbles entrapped during the potting procedure, tap or vibrate the assembly to allow air bubbles to rise to the surface.  Cover the mold with a plastic sheet or place it in a high humidity environment while the ceramic “sets-up”.  After adding water, pot life is one hour, so do not use more material than necessary.

 

 

The mold should be cured after eight (8) hours or overnight, but can usually be handled after four (4) hours.  To maximize the properties of REFRACTOCAST ALF it should be baked out at 90 ºC for 1-2 hours.