Selection Of Refractory Materials For Industrial Furnace
Refractory materials are the substances used to construct the lining and insulation of a furnace, and the selection of refractory materials for industrial furnaces should consider the physical, shear, creep and related properties as parameters. Whether a material is suitable for industrial furnace depends on the temperature, atmosphere and material affected by it, as well as the type of application and design, budget, and service life.
First of all, there is a need to consider the chemical composition of the refractory when choosing a refractory material for an industrial furnace, depending on the chemical characteristics of the material or other components that contact the furnace lining or insulation, such as sulfur, carbon, and other components. The chemical composition of refractory materials can be tailor-made by the manufacturer to meet certain requirements, such as corrosion resistance, abrasion resistance, thermal shock, or volume change. In addition, some refractory materials, such as alumina and silica, can be used in certain situations to reduce the reaction of the material with the furnace atmosphere and body.
Second, the thermal stability of refractory material for industrial furnace must be considered. Depending on the operating temperature of the furnace, the refractory material must be able to withstand high temperatures applied to the surface, including elevated temperatures from the thermal processes inside the furnace. For example, alumina, mullite, and other refractory ceramics can be used in the high-temperature zones of an industrial furnace.
Thirdly, the physical properties of the refractory materials, such as the compressive strength and flexural strength, should be considered during selection. Depending on the type and operating temperature of the furnace, the refractory liners and insulation must be strong enough to withstand mechanical wear and any other stresses that may occur inside the furnace. In addition, the abrasion resistance and hardness of the refractory material should also be taken into account.
Finally, the budgetary cost of refractory materials should be taken into account. The cost of refractory materials, including installation and labour costs, varies from one material to another, and depends on the configuration of the furnace, the complexity of the structure, and other economic factors. Not only should the cost of purchasing the refractory material be considered, but also the need to perform periodic maintenance and inspections on the furnace, to ensure that the refractories are still in good condition.
In conclusion, the selection of refractory materials for industrial furnaces should consider physical and chemical properties, thermal stability, physical properties, and budgetary costs in order to ensure safe, long-term operation and time of service of the furnace.
