Mortars for Any Installation

HarbisonWalker International (HWI) manufactures a variety of mortars for a wide range of applications, service conditions, and purposes. All major chemistry types are represented, as well as bond types and shipping condition options. Popular brands are stocked in strategic locations and are noted in the following tables. HWI recommends
that all mortars be stored in a dry place and maintained at 60-80°F prior to use.

Click here for more product details on HWI’s Mortars.

 

Bond Types

Selecting a bond type is a critical decision when choosing a mortar. HarbisonWalker International’s products offer three bonding options.

Air-Setting – takes a rigid set when dried over 230°F. Air-setting mortars help maintain the strength of the bond up to the temperature at which the ceramic bond takes effect.

Heat-Setting – develops a ceramic set with a strong bond only at high furnace temperatures. These mortars offer expansion flexibility during initial heating.

Phosphate – often grouped with heat-setting mortars, but these mortars see a chemical reaction occur at lower temperatures (500°-600°F) between the phosphoric acid and
ceramic oxides. This reaction imparts high strength to the mortar joint and usually offers the best resistance to severe slag attack.

Shipping Conditions

Refractory mortars are often available in wet or dry form. Each type presents advantages and disadvantages. Product selection can be based on installation requirements.

Wet – no mixing is required other than to remix any liquids that have separated. However, wet mortars are susceptible to freezing and will often have a shorter shelf life than dry mortars.

Dry – can have a shelf life of up to 365 days. Dry mortars are also more economical to ship, especially for large orders. The main disadvantage to dry mortars is the required addition of water and mixing.

 

Consistency

• Most mortars are available in troweling consistency.
• All mortars can be thinned to a dipping consistency by adding water and mixing. Mortars cannot be thickened.
• Specialty mortars made for patching, brushing, or anti-build up are also available.