Abstract: A refractory member for use in insulating a support beam or other heat-absorptive element in a high temperature furnace as well as a method of producing such members is provided. The refractory member includes a vacuum-formed refractory shape comprised of a fiber material and at least one binder, a reticulated, interconnected mesh embedded within the refractory shape, and an anchor element for securing the refractory member to the heat-absorptive element.

Abstract: An arrangement for protecting heat-absorptive elements in a high-temperature furnace includes a refractory member comprised of an interconnected metal structure embedded within the member and a tubular insert element capable of attaching the refractory member to the heat-absorptive element. The tubular insert has a hollow tubular body that is capable of sliding within a passageway through the embedded metal structure. The tubular insert has a rib or lip with an outer diameter larger than the passageway through the metal structure that engages the structure. When the other end of the tubular insert is connected to the heat-absorptive element, the rib holds the refractory member in place without a need to weld the tubular insert directly to the metal structure.

Abstract: A device for locking refractory insulation members on support elements in a heat treating furnace, boiler or other piping has a first strap end with a ramp and a second strap end with a raised bearing tab. The ramp engages the bearing tab with an interference-fit to capture the first strap end on the second strap end. The first embodiment of the invention includes a hook insertable in a window. The hook has a deflectable ramp with a bearing edge which engages a lock surface on the raised bearing tab to lock opposing strap ends to one another. The second embodiment of the invention includes an angled edge on the first strap end which engages the raised bearing tab on the second strap end. The first and second strap ends have opposing slots. The first strap end includes a notched back which, when the opposing slots are fully interengaged, receives the bearing tab to capture the first strap end on the second strap end.

Abstract: A protective refractory member for protecting heat-absorptive elements in a high-temperature furnace comprises a refractory shape, an interconnected, reticulated metal mesh embedded within the shape and positioned substantially adjacent an inner surface of the shape and at least one opening extending through a thickness of the shape and through the mesh. A tubular insert is located within the opening and is welded to the spirals which define the mesh. Both the insert and certain of the spirals engage the heat-absorptive element and the insert is welded to the element to retain the member thereto.