Which is Better: Insulating Bricks or Refractory Bricks?

1. Insulating Performance: The thermal conductivity of refractory bricks is above 1.0 w/m·k (average temperature 350±25°C), while the thermal conductivity of insulating bricks generally ranges from 0.2 to 0.4 w/m·k (average temperature 350±25°C). Therefore, it can be concluded that insulating bricks have much better thermal insulation performance than refractory bricks.
2. Refractoriness: The refractoriness of refractory bricks is above 1400°C, whereas the refractoriness of insulating bricks is generally below 1400°C.
3. Density: The density of refractory bricks is generally above 2.0 g/cm³, whereas insulating bricks are typically lightweight insulation materials with a density ranging from 0.8 to 1.0 g/cm³.

In summary, refractory bricks have high mechanical strength, a long service life, good chemical stability, resistance to chemical reactions with materials, and excellent high-temperature resistance. They can withstand temperatures of up to 1800°C. Refractory bricks are particularly suitable for use in high and low-temperature conversion furnaces, reforming furnaces, hydrogenation converters, desulfurization chambers, and methane furnaces in fertilizer plants. They can also be used in hot blast stoves and heating conversion equipment in the steel industry.

Refractory bricks offer advantages such as high density, high strength, resistance to wear and corrosion, low thermal expansion coefficient, high grinding efficiency, low noise, long service life, and prevention of material adhesion. They serve as premium grinding media suitable for various grinding machinery.

Insulating bricks possess qualities such as thermal insulation and heat preservation, effectively reducing energy consumption. They also exhibit fire resistance, meeting national Class A standards. They are clean and environmentally friendly, causing no secondary air pollution. Being lightweight, they weigh only around 1.4 kg per square meter, thus reducing the load on buildings. Their production is efficient, breaking away from traditional processes and significantly shortening construction periods. Furthermore, they can be produced in various colors, making them suitable for visible installations. These bricks are durable and have a long service life, encompassing seven key advantages.

The differences between refractory bricks and insulating bricks are significant, including their usage environments, ranges, and functions. Different materials are applied in different locations. Therefore, when selecting materials, it is essential to consider your specific circumstances and decide which type of refractory material is suitable for your needs.