Refractory Ceramic Fiber

Refractory ceramic fiber (RCF) is one of the man-made vitreous fibers. They are manufactured for high temperature and thermal insulation. Refractory ceramic fibers are used mostly in glass, ceramic, petrochemical and automotive industries. They are also used line industrial furnaces and kilns.  Kaolin is the most commonly used material for refractory ceramic fiber production, a natural alumino-silicate clay. Alumina and sand mixtures can also be used during the production phase. Refractory ceramic fiber is a hazardous material and can cause serious health issues when inhaled. For this reason, it is mandatory to use special equipment while working with refractory ceramic fibers.

Refractory Ceramic Fibres

Refractory ceramic fiber materials are used in the thermal process industries for more than 50 years. Each year, more than 100.000.000 pounds of refractory ceramic fibers are produced in the US. RCF’s are the main alternative to asbestos because of their insulation feature. However, as we mentioned above, their main application area is lining of industrial furnaces. The air must be monitored during the installation phase very carefully for hazard prevention. Refractory ceramic fiber must be insulated and special measures must be taken to prevent the exposure to air. An industrial ventilation control system is also mandatory while working with RCF’s.

High-Temperature Insulation Wool

Due to the production costs, refractory ceramic fibers are only used in high-temperature industrial applications. There are also different types of RCF’s. For example, AES (alkaline earth silicate) wool is used for temperatures less than 900 C. ASW (alumino silicate) wool, on the other hand, can withstand temperatures higher than 900 C. For very high temperatures (1.300 C and higher) PCW (polycrystalline) wool will be a better choice. When applied according to REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) standards of the European Nation, refractory ceramic fiber is a safe material.