Refractory Blankets

Al Letellier

Bruce, are you referring to the blanket on the floor of the combustion chamber?
If so, it's my understanding that it's there to provide a cooler point in the chamber area to improve circulation within the boiler block. Even some larger commercial boiler use a partial blanket or board to create that cool spot.
My feeling about them is that the R&D guys and engineers at eh boiler factory know more about it than I do, so if they built it with one, I make sure it stays there and get replaced when needed.

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bruce pirger

Refractory Blankets

Anyone have comments on refractory blankets in oil fired boilers? Do they need to be replaced frequently? Indicative of poor design? Something to cause you to move to a non-blanket boiler?

It is my understand they are to serve as protection from the most intense heat of the burner.

Thanks!

Dave Palmer

Bruce

blankets are used to protect the rear section of the boiler and keep the nozzle from getting to hot on shut down. A blanket should last 10-15 years easily on a properly fired and maintained boiler.

[Deleted User]

Both Dave & Al

are correct with their explanations. Sometimes the blanket is damaged during service. Some boilers have designs making them more susceptible to damage than others. We consider the blanket a consumable item and replace them as necessary.

IMHO, I don't believe the cost of replacing the blanket, when necessary, justifies replacing the boiler.