Outstanding performance under extreme conditions: how we overcome the unique challenges of thermal waste processing

In the world of industrial combustion technology, there is scarcely any environment that demands as much from people and materials as an incineration plant. The point at which other components reach their limits is where our work at Langen Feuerungsbau really starts. But what is it that makes our customers’ work so special, and how exactly do we help them with our inspection openings, manholes and special closures?

The challenge: why standard solutions often fail in incineration plants

Operators of waste incineration plants are faced with a complex matrix of technical challenges. Unlike power plants, which run on homogeneous fuels such as gas or coal, waste is unpredictable as a fuel. For this reason, there are three key requirements:

• extremely high corrosion resistance: incinerating household and industrial waste produces aggressive gases and chemical compounds (e.g. chlorides) that rapidly attack conventional steel,
• high thermal load: temperatures that are permanently in the high power range need materials that do not warp and that retain their ability to remain leakproof over a long period of time,
• contamination and slag build-up: fly ash and slag accumulate in every opening. Components have to be designed so as to remain functional in spite of these deposits, and to allow a clear view through any inspection openings.

Our answer: custom-made solutions instead of mass production

‘We at Langen Feuerungsbau see ourselves not just as manufacturers, but also as our customers’ partners. We meet the particular demands placed by waste incineration through focused innovation,’ says Managing Director Anja Vogt. ‘For example, we rely on highly heat-resistant casting alloys and special stainless steels that are precisely aligned to the chemical load of the particular plant. This lengthens the maintenance intervals and reduces unplanned downtime. Our inspection openings are also designed to enable safe observation of the combustion chamber. Using special glass and optional purge air connections prevents the accumulation of soot and ash. This means that operating personnel are always able to control the process,’ adds co-Managing Director and Operations Manager Karsten Vogt.

In the event of a shutdown, it must be possible to operate inspection openings and manholes quickly and safely. ‘Our designs are distinguished by their ease of operation and absolutely precise fit. Not only does this protect personnel, it also speeds up the on-site inspection process,’ says Karsten Vogt. ‘Incidentally, when it comes to waste incineration plants, no two plants are the same. We frequently manufacture to individual drawings or, together with our customers’ engineers, design special solutions that fit exactly into the existing geometry of their boilers.’

Safety as a result of experience

Thermal waste treatment is a key component of today’s circular economy. ‘At Langen Feuerungsbau, our role is to ensure that the interfaces to the combustion chamber – the manholes and inspection openings – rather than being the weakest link in the chain, are a guarantee of safety and durability,’ says Anja Vogt,

Is your next project in the pipeline? Regardless of whether you require original equipment for a new plant or are upgrading existing equipment, we at Langen Feuerungsbau are happy to advise you on the best materials and designs for your particular incineration plant.