Situation
• Linear-elastic fracture mechanics not applicable to refractory materials
• Largely empirical design and selection of refractory linings
• Damage to the refractory lining of heat-exposed installations as a result of
   thermal shock stress
• Production stoppages and significant maintenance requirement

Solution
• Development of a new method for the thermo-mechanical durability analysis of refractory designs
• Application of the wedge splitting method to the quantitative determination of
  fracture mechanics parameters
• Determination of the crack resistance behaviour (R-curves)
• Numerical simulation (FEM) of thermomechanical stresses under boundary
  operating conditions
 
Benefits
• Reliable and inexpensive testing, creation and optimisation of refractory
  designs
• Precise harmonisation between the thermal shock resistance required for
   the refractory lining and the operation of the plant and equipment
• Comparability of different refractory materials
• Efficient tool for the development and advancement of new and existing
  refractory materials
• Improved service life spans, less production lost, lower maintenance costs
• Significant savings in operating costs