What is Refractory Dry-Out?

A controlled start for long-term performance.

Refractory dry-out is the process by which refractory linings are heated in a controlled manner so that residual moisture, chemically bound water, and volatile substances are safely removed. This is a crucial step in the commissioning of industrial installations such as furnaces, reactors, reformers, and incinerators.

🔍 Difference between curing, dry-out en heat-up

 

TermMeaning
CuringThe chemical curing of the binder in the refractory material
Dry-out         The controlled removal of physically and chemically bound moisture
Heat-upThe heating of the installation to operating temperature

 

Incorrect heating can lead to thermal shocks, cracking, or even explosive discharges (so-called 'popcorning').

🧠 Technical norms

Our dry out procedures follow the guidelines of among others:

  • API 936 (Quality Control of Monolithic Refractories)
  • ASTM C1190 (Drying and Firing of Dense Refractories)
  • Project-specific demands (for instance EPC-contracts or OEM-specifics)
  • What is Refractory Dry-Out? Specialist industrial burners for combustion plants

🎯 Purpose of the dry out process:

✅ Structural integrity of the lining
✅ Extending lifespan
✅ Safety at startup
✅ Preventing unplanned shutdowns

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Why choose Environ Engineering?

As an independent specialist, we combine flexibility with technical expertise. Our customers appreciate:

  • Short response times during start-up or shutdown

  • A total package: from engineering to execution

  • Transparency in costs, planning, and measurement data

  • Experience on multinational sites (Evonik, BASF, Borealis, Wienerberger, …)