Embodiments of a method for increasing the lifetime of a casting slurry
are described. One feature of the disclosed embodiments comprises processing refractory
materials that are used to form casting slurries to provide a substantial increase
in slurry lifetime for slurries made using such processed materials compared to
slurries made using materials not processed as described herein. One embodiment
of the method comprises heat processing at least one refractory powder. Without
limiting the invention to a theory of operation, processing is continued for a
period of time sufficient to reduce the amount of hydration from a first hydration
level to a second hydration level. A slurry is formed using the refractory powder
at a hydration level which provides an increased slurry lifetime relative to the
same material without processing according to the disclosed embodiments.
