The effect of temperature on the extrusion behavior of a polymer/ceramic refractory paste, known as taphole clay, has been investigated. Experiments were performed to determine the extrusion pressure and the viscosity of the paste's phenolic resin binder between 30 and 60degreesC. The extrusion parameters were determined using the Benbow and Bridgwater method [1]. As the temperature was increased, a decrease in the extrusion pressure was observed. Three of the four Benbow and Bridgwater extrusion parameters were found to be dependent on temperature and the binder's viscosity. From this data a model was produced using a modified Benbow and Bridgwater equation that predicts the effect of temperature on the extrusion pressure of the paste. (C) 2005 Springer Science + Business Media, Inc.