In the industrial insulation field, ceramic fiber board and calcium silicate board are the two most commonly used insulation materials. Many customers feel confused because of the similar appearance. In fact, these two products differ significantly in the raw materials and usage. The ceramic fiber board is made of ceramic fiber with binder. Therefore, it’s soft and can withstand higher temperatures. While calcium silicate board is mainly made of SiO2 and CaO powders. This structure results in a harder board with moderately high temperature resistance.
Key Differences Between Ceramic Fiber Board and Calcium Silicate Board
| Feature |
Ceramic Fiber Board |
Calcium Silicate Board |
| Max Service Temperature |
1260–1430°C |
1000°C |
| Thermal Insulation |
Better at high temperatures |
Good, but slightly lower |
| Mechanical Strength |
Lower, more fragile |
High, load-bearing |
| Weight |
Lightweight |
Heavier |
| Typical Use |
Kilns, furnaces, steel industry |
Boilers, power plants, construction |
How to Choose the Right Insulation Board for My Project?
From an industrial application perspective, the specific material to use depends on your working conditions. Choosing the right insulation material can not only save energy but also reduce project costs, thus achieving long-term benefits.
If your equipment operates above 1200°C, ceramic fiber board is the safer and more energy-efficient option.
If your project requires strong, rigid insulation at medium temperatures, calcium silicate board is more cost-effective.
For construction fireproofing and wall systems, calcium silicate board is the industry standard.
For refractory linings in high-temperature kilns, ceramic fiber board provides better thermal efficiency.
FAQs about Ceramic Fiber Board and Calcium Silicate Board
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Should I Choose Ceramic Fiberboard or Calcium Silicate Board?
It depends primarily on temperature and strength:
- Temperature: Requires resistance above 1000°C → Choose ceramic fiberboard. Below 1000°C (especially below 650°C) → Calcium silicate board is a more economical and sturdy option.
- Strength: Requires load-bearing and impact resistance (such as kiln car tables and walkways) → Choose calcium silicate board. Only requires thermal insulation → Choose ceramic fiber board.
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Highest Application of Ceramic Fiber Board? Can It Directly Contact with Flames?
Yes, that is its core application. High-quality ceramic fiber board is classified for temperatures up to 1260°C to 1430°C and can be used as a hot surface material in direct contact with flames, such as for linings in high-temperature furnaces. However, be aware that high-velocity flame erosion can damage the surface.
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My Furnace Needs Both High Temperatures and Load-Bearing. What Should I Do?
A combination of these two product is the best solution. This is a common practice in industrial furnace design:
- Hot surface layer (high-temperature side): Ceramic fiberboard or modules are used to withstand high temperatures.
- Backing layer (low-temperature side): Calcium silicate board is used to provide structural strength and auxiliary insulation.
- This utilizes both the high-temperature resistance of ceramic fiber and the structural strength of calcium silicate board, achieving a balanced performance and cost.
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Is Calcium Silicate Board Clean to Install?
Compared to ceramic fiber board, the calcium silicate board produces a much cleaner working environment. It produces less dust during cutting, and the dust is primarily gypsum-like particles, not fiber dust, making it less irritating to the skin.
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Price-Wise, Which Is More Expensive?
Generally speaking, the better the high-temperature resistance, the higher the price. Therefore, high-performance ceramic fiberboard (such as zirconium-containing types) will be more expensive per unit than calcium silicate board. However, one should not focus solely on unit price; the total cost of the entire insulation system, installation costs, and service life must be considered. Calcium silicate board, due to its greater durability, may have lower lifecycle costs.
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What Are the Service Lives of Ceramic Fiber Board and Calcium Silicate Board?
Under the correct design temperature and operating conditions, both boards have a very long lifespan. The main cause of shortened lifespans is improper use:
Ceramic fiber board: Resists high-speed airflow and mechanical impact.
Calcium silicate board: Most susceptible to extreme temperatures and rapid heating and cooling.
Adhering to design specifications can extend the lifespan to several years or even more than ten years.