Industrial Chimney Lining Systems: What Should You Use?

Many industrial structures such as kilns, tanks, ducts, pipes, chimneys, and smokestacks, use lining systems to extend their life and to keep harmful gases and emissions from coming in contact with other parts of the structure.  Flue gases highly corrosive and will rapidly deteriorate concrete, steel and other materials.
Whether you are building a brand new structure or replacing the current lining system in your industrial chimney, smokestack or kiln, there are a few types of lining systems you will need to consider. Each type offers different benefits and some choices may be better for certain circumstances or uses.

Whether you are looking for unparalleled corrosion resistance, long-lasting durability, high temperature strength, or economical lining material, you will be able to find exactly what you need. Here is a look at the most popular types of lining systems available to industrial applications:

Gunite Refractory

Gunite Refractory liners are popular for many industrial applications because they reduce energy costs, require less maintenance, and produce fewer emissions. Most facility owners choose this type of liner to meet strict EPA regulations and produce a better outcome for the environment.

Because Gunite Refractory lining systems allows for much higher exhaust temperatures, unburned fuel particles and combustion byproducts are burned up before they can enter the atmosphere. Also, Gunite Refractory liners have a higher initial firing temperature which means facilities can benefit from greater fuel efficiency and lower fuel costs, making them a great solution for cutting budgets.

This type of lining system can be installed quickly & easily with little down time required thanks to the availability of different lining possibilities. Density, weight, & abrasion values can all be customized to create the right solution for the application at hand. Gunite Refractory lining systems are popular choices for oil refineries & power plants, but many industrial facilities around the world have turned to this style of liner.

Borosilicate Block

This type of liner is made up of Borosilicate glass block tiles that are attached to the internal surface of an industrial chimney, smokestack, flue or duct system with a durable adhesive. Borosilicate Block lining systems are completely impermeable thanks to a closed-cell structure and extremely controlled manufacturing process. The acid-resistant, flexible adhesive has a long service life and can potentially last decades, which is much longer than other types of lining systems.

Many facilities choose Borosilicate Block liners because they are relatively low in cost and have a number of technical properties that make them great for many applications. Borosilicate Block liners are extremely fire resistant and require very few considerations for installation. In fact, this type of lining system can be easily retrofitted in existing structures or brand new construction. Because Borosilicate Block lining systems can be installed in brick, concrete, or still chimneys, they have become a popular option for many plants & factories.

Refractory Brick

Refractory Brick liners play a critical role in pre-calciner kilns & rotary kilns since they feature a high melting point and are extremely wear resistant. Although they are important for kilns & paper plants, they have also become a popular lining system for a number of industrial uses that require corrosion resistance, high temperature strength, electrical/thermal installation, or other demanding characteristics. Because they go through a lot of stress, regular maintenance and monitoring is a must for this type of lining system.

Vinyl Ester Resin

A Vinyl Ester Resin liner is a popular system for chemical processing, water treatment, air pollution control, and even mineral processing. A resin liner actually provides unparalleled corrosion resistance in a number of industrial structures like fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) tanks, ducting, pipes, scrubbers, and other components. A great choice for the most challenging environments, Vinyl Ester Resin liner systems are extremely durable, have a high heat resistance, and require very little maintenance.

This type of lining system is used for medium duty protection of steel or concrete substrates and structures. It is made up of chemical-resistant materials that have a good resistance to alkalis, acids and a broad range of other corrosive chemicals. Vinyl Ester Resin liners are installed in mainly steel & concrete tank linings, and are popular due to the low cost and ease of installation.