This test method provides a rapid, inexpensive method for comparing the corrosion resistance of refractories. The isothermal conditions of this test method represent the most severe static corrosion environment possible at the specified test temperature. This test method is suitable for quality control, research and development applications, and for product value studies on similar materials. Tests run at a series of temperatures are often helpful in determining the use temperature limitations of a particular material. Melt-line corrosion results are also a useful indication of relative resistance to both upward and downward drilling corrosion mechanisms. Examination of test specimens also provides information about the tendency for a particular refractory to form stones or other glass defects.

Because this test method is both isothermal and static and since most glass-contact refractories operate in a dynamic system with a thermal gradient, test results do not directly predict service in a furnace. The effects of differing thermal conductivities, refractory thickness, artificial cooling or insulation upon the refractory thermal gradient, and the erosive action of moving molten glass currents are not evaluated with this test.