Refractory & Insulation

A THERMAX infrared inspection of refractory and insulation materials are based on the assumption that if a uniform temperature exists inside a vessel then the exterior surface temperature is a direct function of heat conducted through the insulation and exterior wall.

By conducting a frequent infrared survey, it is possible to identify moisture in the insulation or uneven wear in the refractory and is therefore possible to identify a hot spot developing in the early stages as a result of non-uniform heat conducted from the vessels interior to the outside surface.

Acceptable limits for refractory inspections are determined by certain factors, mainly:

* Manufacturers specifications * Construction materials

Using these two limits it is of course possible to establish two temperature alarm levels:

* Monitor carefully * Repair immediately

The measurements obtained from the survey can be used to plot a trend analysis and histogram. This data can be used to optimize the heat balance which can be affected by factors such as, the frequency that the vessel is opened and closed for loading and unloading, open ports, throughput of air and the air/fuel ratio

Typical equipment that can be surveyed

* Batch furnaces * Continuous furnaces * Heat treatment furnaces * Dryers * Ovens * Boilers * Ladles * Hot storage tanks * Insulated pipes