The Modu-Lok system uses prefired refractory to provide a structure of uniform density. Hanger and filler brick have structural, load-bearing treads on two sides. Materials are chosen to suit the particular application, for example, fused AZS may be best suited for a doghouse curtain, whereas sillimanite refractory is chosen for a canal cover.

Simplicity

Often covers or curtains--many with complex configurations--are built with two parent shapes.

Versatility

Horizontal covers, vertical curtains or combinations of the two can be made from the same base shapes.

Stability

There are 1/2" (12 mm) treads on both the hanger and filler bricks to "lock" the cover together.

Thermal Efficiency

The Modu-Lok® construction allows for insulated or non-insulated systems, depending on the requirements.

Metallic Support

The hanger bricks are suspended using metallic anchors, while the sides are held in place with metallic plates. Metallics are clear of insulation, which adds to service life. Metallics can be made as stampings or castings in materials to suit particular conditions.

MT Modu-LokŪ Waist Covers

The Modu-Lok system has been used in waist area covers for over 3 decades. The Merkle waist covers can be moved so a stirrer or cooler can be inserted. The superior refractory used in Merkle waist covers permits some thermal cycling of the waist covers. Steel frames are supplied with the refractory and metallics. The steel frames are normally water cooled.

MT Modu-LokŪ Waist Curtains

Waist curtains are an alternative to shadow walls to separate the melter from the refiner. As with all Modu-Lok® systems, the metallics and support steel are kept clear of, or a safe distance from, the heat of the furnace. As with the waist covers, water-cooled steel frames are supplied.

MT Modu-LokŪ Canal Covers

The canal area, between the refiner and the tin bath entrance, is normally covered by canal covers. The Modu-Lok canal cover provides a flat, high-quality cover, which can be easily positioned or removed. This allows maximum flexibility during spout changes or hot repair periods. The exact size and shape of the canal cover is determined by the customer's canal and tweel design.

Special structures made using MT Modu-LokŪ shapes

Certain furnace designs call for special structures. The flexibiltiy of the MT Modu-Lok construction allows special shaped covers and curtains, such as donkey walls or complex crutch arches, to be constructed using the Merkle MT Modu-Lok refractory shapes. Merkle can provide a solution for almost any complicated design challenge.

Merkle has supplied over 500 covers and curtains for the glass industry since 1972. Let our experience and technical superiority work for you. Please contact us about your upcoming construction or rebuild or if you have any questions about the Merkle Modu-Lok® system.

Merkle International, Inc.
100 Perry Street, P.O. Box 312
Galena, IL 61036 USA
Tel: (815) 777-2100
Fax: (815) 777-2106
E-mail: sales@merkleintl.com