AM Monday – Refractory & Insulation; Holding the Heat Where It Belongs

AM Mondays: Refractory & Insulation; Holding the Heat Where It Belongs

February 23, 2026

Refractory and insulation form the thermal envelope of an RTO. Their role is to contain heat within the process, protect the steel shell, and maintain stable internal temperatures. When these materials perform correctly, combustion stability and energy efficiency are preserved. When they degrade, heat loss and structural stress quietly accumulate.

Refractory linings and insulation systems operate under constant thermal cycling, chemical exposure, and mechanical stress. Over time, cracks, erosion, and insulation voids develop. These defects allow heat to escape, creating localized hot spots and uneven temperature distribution. Because damage often occurs behind linings or beneath insulation layers, problems frequently go unnoticed until performance or safety is compromised.

Challenges:

As heat loss increases, burners must compensate to maintain oxidation temperature, driving up fuel usage. Localized hot spots place thermal stress on the steel shell, increasing the risk of distortion, corrosion, and long-term structural damage. Minor refractory defects can propagate rapidly, eventually requiring extensive chamber repairs or full rebuilds if not addressed early.

Solutions by Ship & Shore Environmental:

Ship & Shore Environmental (SSE) conducts detailed refractory and insulation assessments using visual inspection, thermal imaging, and operating temperature analysis. SSE technicians identify early-stage cracking, erosion, and insulation gaps before they escalate. Repairs are planned strategically during scheduled outages to minimize downtime. SSE also advises on material selection and maintenance intervals based on actual operating conditions rather than generic assumptions.

Results:

Maintained refractory and insulation systems preserve thermal efficiency, stabilize combustion, and reduce fuel demand. Facilities benefit from improved safety, extended equipment life, and predictable maintenance planning. SSE’s proactive approach prevents costly structural damage, reduces unplanned outages, and ensures the RTO continues to operate within design and compliance limits

Contact us at +1 (562) 997-0233 or email service@shipandshore.com for more information. For urgent oxidizer emergencies, text or call +1 (562) 477-7557 or +1 (562) 400-4439.