Selection of clay bricks for industrial kilns

Industrial kilns are core equipment in industries such as cement, metallurgy, and chemicals. Clay refractory bricks are the mainstream choice for kiln refractory materials due to their moderate cost, high temperature resistance, and strong stability. However, the quality of industrial kiln clay bricks on the market varies greatly, and they differ significantly from high-alumina bricks and silica bricks. Improper selection can easily lead to brick peeling and kiln malfunctions. This article combines material comparisons and practical tips to help you accurately select high-quality high-temperature clay bricks.

1. Material Comparison to Identify Suitable Scenarios

Different refractory bricks have significant differences in performance and cost. Choosing the right brick based on the operating conditions is crucial for efficiency:

Comparison with high-alumina bricks: High-alumina bricks have higher temperature resistance (≥1750℃) and stronger corrosion resistance, but their price is 1.5-2 times that of clay bricks; clay bricks have a temperature resistance of 1580℃-1750℃, offering excellent cost-effectiveness and are suitable for medium- and high-temperature kilns (such as drying kilns and annealing kilns) and scenarios where extreme temperature resistance is not required.

Compared to corundum bricks: Corundum bricks have high strength and can withstand temperatures exceeding 1800℃, but are expensive; clay bricks are only 1/3 to 1/4 the price of corundum bricks, making them suitable for non-core components or kilns with moderate performance requirements, balancing cost and performance.

2.Anchoring Kiln Operating Conditions and Matching Core Performance

After determining the material, refine the selection based on the actual kiln operating conditions: Temperature compatibility: For high-temperature kilns such as cement rotary kilns, directly select high-temperature clay bricks with a temperature resistance of ≥1700℃; for low-temperature kilns, choose economical products with a temperature resistance of around 1600℃.

Media compatibility: When there is acid or alkali corrosion in the kiln, prioritize industrial kiln clay bricks with an apparent porosity of ≤22% and strong corrosion resistance to avoid premature brick damage.

Strength compatibility: For load-bearing components such as the furnace roof, select products with a room temperature compressive strength ≥25MPa; for non-load-bearing components, the standard can be appropriately lowered to control costs.

3.Investigate Suppliers and Cost-Effectiveness, Reject Low-Price Traps

Supplier Selection: Prioritize manufacturers with ISO9001 certification, requiring product certificates of conformity to GB/T 3994-2014 standards. For foreign trade procurement (e.g., CFR terms), confirm the manufacturer’s cross-border supply experience to ensure customs clearance and deliver.

Cost-Effectiveness Assessment: Low-priced bricks have a lifespan only one-third that of high-quality high-temperature clay bricks, increasing replacement costs. It is recommended to choose high-end models for core components. Cost-effective products for non-core components to avoid hidden losses.

Selecting the right clay bricks for industrial kilns involves first clarifying the application scenario through material comparison. Then filtering based on key factors such as operating conditions, processes, and specifications. This approach leverages the high cost-effectiveness advantage while ensuring suitability for high-temperature conditions, extending the kiln’s lifespan.