Spray method applying monolithic refractory material

A method of applying a monolithic refractory material to a work surface, comprising:

• providing a screen having openings dimensioned to permit the flow of air therethrough and to effectively prevent the passage therethrough of refractory material which is to be applied to a work surface;
• positioning the screen so as to substantially enclose the work surface such that a major portion of the screen is spaced a selected distance from the work surface to define between the work surface and the major portion of the screen a space having a thickness approximately corresponding to the thickness of the refractory material to be applied;
• and
• spraying by compressed air a refractory material in the space between the work surface and the screen in a direction generally parallel relative to the work surface to progressively accumulate refractory material in the space between the screen and the work surface while permitting the air to escape through the screen openings both below and above the level of the accumulated refractory material to thereby form a layer of refractory material on the work surface free from trapped air.