Power Generation & Renewable Energy
Refractory solutions for extreme temperatures and process efficiency
The power generation industry relies on high-performance refractory materials to ensure safety, thermal control, and operational efficiency across a wide range of energy technologies. From conventional fossil fuel plants to advanced nuclear reactors and renewable energy systems, refractory solutions play a critical role in protecting equipment, extending service life, and enabling stable energy production under extreme thermal and chemical conditions.
Fossil fuel and thermal power plants
In coal-fired, oil-fired, and gas-fired power stations, refractory linings are essential in boilers, furnaces, combustion chambers, heat exchangers, flue gas systems, and chimneys. These materials withstand continuous exposure to high temperatures, chemical corrosion, slag attack, and thermal cycling, providing reliable insulation and structural protection. High-performance castables, bricks, and coatings help maintain combustion efficiency, minimise heat losses, and reduce downtime caused by refractory failure.
Nuclear power generation
In nuclear reactors, refractory materials are used in multiple safety-critical and support systems. High-temperature insulation protects reactor cores, steam generators, and containment vessels, while specialised refractory coatings provide shielding against radiation, thermal stress, and chemical attack. The dimensional stability, low thermal conductivity, and radiation resistance of refractory materials are essential to ensure long-term reactor integrity, system safety, and regulatory compliance.
Waste-to-energy and biomass facilities
Refractory solutions are crucial in waste incineration and biomass combustion plants, where highly variable fuel compositions create harsh operating environments. Refractory linings resist chemical corrosion from aggressive flue gases, slagging, and thermal shock caused by fluctuating combustion conditions. Effective refractory protection supports continuous operation, maximises plant uptime, and improves energy recovery efficiency from waste materials.
Solar thermal energy
In concentrated solar power (CSP) plants, refractory insulation is applied in receivers, molten salt storage tanks, and heat transfer systems operating at very high temperatures. These materials help maintain thermal stability, prevent energy losses, and ensure the durability of components exposed to continuous high thermal loads.
Hydrogen production and fuel cells
Emerging hydrogen production technologies, such as steam methane reforming (SMR) and solid oxide electrolysis, require refractory linings to handle high processing temperatures and protect equipment from chemical corrosion. In fuel cells, thermal insulation assists in maintaining optimal operating temperatures, improving system efficiency and lifespan.
Wind power and other renewable technologies
While wind turbines operate at lower temperatures, refractory materials may still be employed in manufacturing processes such as casting and heat treating turbine components, as well as in related power storage and transmission infrastructure requiring fire protection.
Supporting global energy transformation
As the global energy sector continues to diversify and modernise, refractory solutions remain a critical component across all power generation technologies - providing thermal protection, fire safety, chemical resistance, and mechanical stability essential for safe, efficient, and sustainable energy production.