As one of America’s top sources for kiln services, we spend a lot of time maintaining and repairing working kilns in the field.  Unfortunately, we often see situations where repair jobs could have been avoided with a bit more care and maintenance.  A good kiln can give you decades of service with minimal need for repairs, but it’s vital to stay on top of vital maintenance, while also keeping an eye out for early warning signs of problems.

These are a few of the things we regularly advise customers to do if they want to keep their kiln functioning properly for an extended lifetime.

Three Most Important Aspects of Kiln Maintenance

1. The refractory liner

In a kiln, the refractory liner is a vital component that helps trap heat while redirecting it inwards.  This makes it critical not only for maintaining internal temperatures, but also preventing exterior portions of the kiln from becoming too hot.  If the refractory liner wears down, the kiln will start becoming less efficient.  If the damage to the liner continues without repair, eventually heat will start to bleed out, damaging or warping outside structures – potentially endangering the kiln itself.

The liner should be regularly inspected by trained professionals from a kiln services company, and any issues should be repaired ASAP.  This is a problem that will only get more expensive to fix over time.

2. Lubrication

Like all machinery based on rotary drums, the gears and bearings must regularly receive lubrication.  Even minor lubrication issues can potentially introduce harmful vibrations that can throw off the function or balance of your kiln, and more major lubrication problems can cause critical parts to wear down quickly.  Always stay on top of your lubrication to keep the kiln running properly.

3. Burner repairs and upgrades

Obviously, without a burner, you don’t have a kiln.  While burners do last for many years, they will wear out over time – usually signaled by uneven heat output or difficulties with startup.  It’s worth having them inspected regularly and ask about the potential for upgrades.  New burner types are regularly introduced and can often make your kiln more efficient.

Rotary Kiln Services

For over twenty years, Kiln Technology Company has provided rotary kiln services, maintenance, sales, and spare parts to Texas, and the greater US.  Whether you need some spares to keep up on maintenance, major repairs, or an entirely new kiln, contact us to make it happen.