In today’s competitive steel industry, every degree of heat retention matters. Traditional ladle insulation systems often fall short—leading to excessive energy loss, uneven shell temperatures, and inefficient continuous casting operations. But what if you could reduce insulation thickness by 10–18 mm while improving thermal performance? That’s exactly what Sunrise’s vermiculite-based ladle insulation board delivers—backed by real-world data from multiple steel plants across Asia and Europe.
Many steelmakers still rely on older materials like calcium silicate or basic silica fiber blankets. These materials typically have a thermal conductivity (λ) of 0.12–0.18 W/m·K at 800°C, meaning they lose significant heat during long ladle holding times. This leads to:
Sunrise’s advanced vermiculite board offers a game-changing alternative with key advantages:
| Material Type | Thermal Conductivity (W/m·K @ 800°C) | Max Service Temp | Thickness Reduction Potential |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Calcium Silicate | 0.15 | 800°C | None |
| Silica Fiber Blanket | 0.17 | 1000°C | Minimal |
| Sunrise Vermiculite Board | 0.09 | 1200°C | 10–18 mm |
Field tests show that replacing standard insulation with Sunrise’s vermiculite board can lower outer shell temperatures by up to 50°C—even when the same ladle is used for 3–4 heats per shift. This translates directly into better temperature stability for molten steel, reduced reheating needs, and less wear on refractory linings.
For decision-makers focused on operational efficiency, here are measurable outcomes:
These aren’t hypotheticals—they’re results from over 15 successful installations in China, India, and Germany, where users reported faster ladle turnaround and fewer defects in cast products.
Installation tips matter too: ensure uniform bonding with high-temp ceramic adhesives, avoid gaps larger than 2 mm, and perform post-installation thermal imaging checks within 24 hours to validate heat retention.
“We saw immediate improvements—not just in energy metrics but also in our team’s confidence during long shifts.” — Plant Manager, Southeast Asian Steel Mill
If your facility is seeking a smarter way to optimize ladle insulation without compromising safety or performance, now is the time to act.
Get Your Customized Ladle Insulation Optimization Plan Today