Refractory Materials Repair Technicians
Overview
Refractory Materials Repair Technicians build and fix the heat‑resistant linings inside furnaces, kilns, boilers, ladles, and other high‑temperature equipment so factories can safely melt metal, fire ceramics, or process glass. They remove damaged linings, mix sand, clay, and special mortar, then shape, spread, and cure these materials using trowels, spray equipment, scaffolding, and forklifts. They also decide which refractory materials can handle specific temperatures and chemicals, plan repair schedules with maintenance teams, and check that their work meets strict safety and performance standards.
Did you know?
Workers must adhere to strict safety protocols and OSHA regulations due to exposure to high temperatures, hazardous materials, and industrial environments.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$52,412.86 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Quality Control Analysis
Key Responsibilities
- Remove worn or damaged plastic block refractory linings of furnaces, using hand tools.
- Mix specified amounts of sand, clay, mortar powder, and water to form refractory clay or mortar, using shovels or mixing machines.
- Dry and bake new linings by placing inverted linings over burners, building fires in ladles, or by using blowtorches.
- Chip slag from linings of ladles or remove linings when beyond repair, using hammers and chisels.
- Dump and tamp clay in molds, using tamping tools.
- Transfer clay structures to curing ovens, melting tanks, and drawing kilns, using forklifts.
- Climb scaffolding, carrying hoses, and spray surfaces of cupolas with refractory mixtures, using spray equipment.
- Spread mortar on stopper heads and rods, using trowels, and slide brick sleeves over rods to form refractory jackets.
- Measure furnace walls to determine dimensions and cut required number of sheets from plastic block, using saws.
- Reline or repair ladles and pouring spouts with refractory clay, using trowels.
Career Considerations
Safety and OSHA Compliance
Workers must adhere to strict safety protocols and OSHA regulations due to exposure to high temperatures, hazardous materials, and industrial environments.
Specialized Training Requirements
The occupation typically requires specialized technical training or apprenticeships in refractory materials and high-temperature industrial processes.
Industry Demand Fluctuations
Job opportunities are closely tied to the health of American heavy industry sectors including steel production, petrochemicals, and power generation.