Alumina Ceramic Lining For Ultimate Wear-Resistance

Posted by Ceramic Technology, Inc. on October 4th, 2019

One of the hardest materials available out there that provide ultimate wear-resistance in piping is definitely ceramics. In high-wear applications, ceramic-lined pipes have been recognized as very cost-effective as they significantly increase service life and reduce maintenance costs. Companies specializing in industrial ceramic linings supply abrasion-resistant pipes customized to their customers’ specifications and budget. Fine-grain, high-grade alumina ceramic, in particular, is considered to be the industrial workhorse material for fine particle abrasion and to combat sliding. It has a proven track record of providing great value in many of the most troublesome wear applications and is generally very economical and appropriate in many environments.

Properties of Alumina Ceramic

Alumina ceramic is versatile. It can be applied from very thin linings of just 1.5 mm or 1/16” thick up to 76 mm or 3” thick, and can also be pre-engineered into complex tiling systems. In addition to that, alumina can also be formed into large monolithic pieces and cylinders to create extremely effective abrasion-resistant alumina ceramic linings for pipes, elbows, tees and wye fittings. As compared to other solutions, such as chrome carbide or AR plate, these linings typically outlast them by 10 times the wear life.

How Is it Made?

Alumina ceramic linings can be formed from monolithic ceramics, and they can also take the form of integrated tile systems to suit even the most complex fabrications. Alumina powder is first loaded in the ball mill with necessary additives and water to mix and grind, and achieve desired properties of the slip. Once the mixing and grinding are done, the slip is then dried through a spray drier in a granular form. To achieve the desired shape, the granules are pressed in hydraulic presses. Pressed shapes are generally loaded in microprocessor-controlled tunnel furnaces ideal for 1550 Deg C. Before they are sent to the sites, every sample is subjected to quality checks in test labs to ensure the highest degree of quality control.

The Installation

Correct installation or application is critical to ensure the success of any industrial ceramic lining. Time and experience proven alumina ceramic lining application methods include using:

  • Epoxy
  • Weld in Tiles
  • Interference and Shrink Fits 
  • Bolt-in, Key-Arched Designs
  • RTV Silicone
  • High-Temperature Mortars

What you achieve is a superior wear system. The selection of the lining method can mean the difference between success and failure of your application. So, it is important to choose wisely. When properly installed using alumina ceramics, industrial ceramic lining is also impact-resistant. There are also custom engineering alumina ceramic liners, which enable you to provide a more precise fit and full ceramic protection.

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Ceramic Technology, Inc.

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Ceramic Technology, Inc.
Joined: June 3rd, 2019
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