Refraco views the future through innovation and finding new ways of solving old problems. Being a designer and a manufacturer, Refraco’s engineering staff has a unique appreciation of the potential—and limitations—of refractory materials and structures. Being up-to-date on new state-of-the-art refractory materials, and seeing the possibilities that they present, Refraco has solved some long standing problems of clients by successfully introducing modern refractory products into new applications.

At times, there appears to be a tendency for outside-in designs, with refractory considerations taking a back seat to the steel structure. Trying to fit insulation and refractory materials into an already-established shell has produced some ineffective and inefficient structures. Refraco designs refractory structures from the inside-out, basing the refractory design on operational requirements and the steel design on the refractory design. With many new ideas and a current knowledge of refractory capabilities, Refraco’s engineering department can offer the greatest benefit by being involved early in any projects requiring refractory designs.

Refraco’s Design Methodology

• Defining the Design Parameters
  
  Finding and building a successful design/solution begins with a correct comprehension of your needs and a thorough understanding of the environment in which the systems will operate. While Refraco is an expert in refractory applications, you (our clients) are the experts in your respective processes. It is often beneficial for us to immerse ourselves in your production system in order to understand your procedures and to be able to propose a solution that responds adequately to your needs.
• Preliminary Design Study
  
  This step is generally aimed at:
  

  1. Determining the technical and financial feasibility of the project.
  2. Eliminating some uncertainties about the project.
  3. Deciding which of different possibilities to pursue.

  Different actions may include:
  

  1. Sampling and/or laboratory testing of materials.
  2. Physical and/or numerical modelling.
  3. Preliminary designs for one or more possible solutions carried out to present alternative and associated benefits of each to the client.
• Detailed Design
  
  Once a choice is made of the design approach to pursue detailed design calculations, drawings and specifications are completed.
• Fabrication
  
  After the design is complete, the project is put into production.
• The Result
  
  Our turnkey systems are created in an open partnership with you. We begin with the information you give us and in return we will design the most efficient systems for you. This way of proceeding allows us to create working relationships that are both long-term and conducive to innovation and continuous improvement.