Abstract: An apparatus for supporting a ceramic tube during firing thereof includes a base on which is mounted a lower end of the ceramic tube and supports extending upwardly from the base. A brick member is supported on the supports for grasping an upper end of the ceramic tube and for, during axial contraction of the tube during firing thereof, suspending the tube and allowing withdrawal of the lower end of the tube from the base while ensuring vertical alignment of the thus suspended tube. The brick has therethrough an opening for surrounding the upper end of the tube and defining a balancing space between the brick and the tube. Mortar fills the balancing space.

Abstract: This invention relates to mounting porous ceramic material to metal surfaces. The metal surfaces may either be flat surfaces or tubes. The ceramic material is held onto a perforated metal sheet by screwed-in spiral springs. The perforated metal sheet acts as a holding device and is located adjacent to a metal surface. The invention provides for porous ceramic insulation which is conveniently mounted with relation to the metal surface. Spiral springs absorb the stresses which occur during use.