Refractories are ceramic materials designed to withstand unusually high temperatures while maintaining structural integrity. More heat-resistant than metals, they line the hot surfaces found in several processes in modern manufacturing.
Most often made of ceramics and used in the metallurgical, glassmaking, and ceramics industries, refractories line devices such as furnaces and kilns that process materials at high temperatures. In addition to being heat-resistant, they must also be resistant to thermal shock, which occurs when an object is cooled rapidly from a high temperature.
Refractories are built to withstand the test of time, lasting up to ten years. But aging is inevitable, mainly due to the high temperatures they endure. Luckily, there are a few telltale signs you should watch out for that will let you know it’s time to replace them. These include cracks more than 1/16” thick, any crumbling, or any pieces coming off completely.
While they have many industrial uses, refractories are also used in kilns, smokestacks, and fireplaces. The manufacturing sector, however, uses refractory materials on a much larger scale and requires proper care, with annual boiler inspections.
In addition to being the top burner specialists, ACSI Mechanical Group is one of the few groups nationwide to offer full refractory products and services for combustion applications.
This aligns seamlessly with our portfolio of services for all our clients. We will successfully handle all your refractory needs and work seamlessly on both your boiler and refractory projects.
We have a proven methodology and industry experience that enable us to consult with your team while delivering the most cost-effective solutions.
At American Refractories, we are dedicated to determining the most appropriate and economical refractory solution for your particular situation. We are proud to offer heat-resistant refractory linings with premium insulation value, higher resistance to thermal shock, faster heating and cooling of the combustion chamber, and greater overall efficiency.
First, we identify the refractory liner best suited to the application. To do so, we assess the frequency of on-off cycling, insulation value, jacket appearance, thermal shock, exposure to chemical agents, catalytic heat, and combustion efficiency.
Our ACSI Refractory engineers can also provide the custom molds that are required for your total solution. These are made by mixing high-temperature ceramic materials to form burner blocks that withstand up to 2100°F. We also consider the lining’s weight, accurately identifying it across a range to prevent potential cracking from stress. We have the industry expertise to make sure all of your refractory requirements are handled to your satisfaction.
We bring forward all of the aspects of what is needed to address your issues most cost-effectively by using our consultative approach. Our total service approach includes:
Refractories
Boiler and Tank
Mechanical
Piping
Full Service
Preventative Maintenance