Case Study: Foamfrax Veneer vs. Coating
We’re always on the lookout for innovations that improve the performance of refractories and linings. Though it requires a substantial undertaking to evaluate the quality and performance of new products in our industry, we’ve found that the rewards far outweigh the costs. Of course, we’d never use a product that’s untested, but when we find a new product that delivers…Read More ›
When Refractory Contractors Fail to Bid on Complete Project Requirements
“I love your proposal, but I love the other guy’s price.” Have you ever heard that before? For those of us who are providing complex services and products in the business-to-business market, this is frustrating to hear. Especially when you hear it often. When I expressed my frustration to another CEO colleague over dinner the other night, he asked me…Read More ›
Shotcrete vs. Gunite vs. Pump Casting vs. Casting – Misconceptions About Refractory Installation Methods
I’m amazed at how many times we’ve met with a potential client where another refractory contractor has told them something off the cuff like “you need to shotcrete this” or “you need to pump that” … without taking the time to actually go through the proper steps to evaluate the best method for the application. This usually happens because the…Read More ›
The “Taillight Guarantee”
We use a term in the industry called “the taillight guarantee.” Any idea what it stands for? (Hint: It’s not positive.) The taillight guarantee means that your support ends when your refractory contractor’s truck pulls out of your lot at the end of the job. Sometimes it elicits chuckles, but many times we have to use the term when we’re…Read More ›
Situational Analysis: When Traditional Vibe-casting with Large Mixers Beats Pump Casting
Recently, we were asked to attend a pre-bid meeting for a secondary aluminum facility to discuss a project – a rebuild of the hearth, ramp and sill of an aluminum melt furnace. The purchasing department was leading the meeting, and they had already selected the refractory materials, defined the scope of work and listed all of the specifics of the…Read More ›