Advantages of Rotary Retorts Fabricated from Nickel Alloys

Fabricated retorts for batch and continuous retort applications have been in use since the mid-1990’s. In the roughly 25 years since their debut, experience and data show the long-term advantages of fabricated rotary retorts versus cast retorts.

Fabricated retorts are welded from wrought nickel alloys to the exact specifications required. A cast retort involves metal poured into a shape that ultimately becomes a rotary retort. If your manufacturing facility is considering ways to improve the performance or lifespan of your retort, there are several key reasons why you should consider fabrication.

For further background on cast versus fabricated retorts, make sure you check out this article.

Greater Design Flexibility

The beauty of fabricated retorts lies in the design flexibility. Each design addresses the specific application needs for your operation. Because you can use a mix of materials to address failure points, three or perhaps four different materials can be incorporated throughout the length of the retort.

For example, we partnered with one chainsaw chain manufacturer to create a mixed alloy retort that address their specific failure points. Weak sections that need additional strength were made from specific types of alloys.

Longer Lifespan

The nature of the nickel and stainless alloys can contribute to a longer service life. The small grain structure in these materials that has proven to be highly resistant to the extreme furnace environments. With greater ductility, you experience a greater resistance to thermal fatigue which is one the primary causes of failure.

Save on Production Costs

If your goal is to improve performance and address failure points, a cast retort likely won’t be the most economical choice. That’s because a new casting mold would likely have to be formed to accomplish the same goals you’ll strive to achieve with a fabricated design. Ultimately this translates into a greater expense and a longer lead time.

Fabricated retorts can also be routinely rebuilt in the failed areas. By salvaging the remainder of the fabrication, you’ll save on the cost of multiple retort purchases.

In order to get the most usage from your retort, make sure you explore the benefits of a fabricated retort. Your discussion should include failure points, historic costs and lifespan, new design ideas, and materials selection.

Alloy Engineering offers retorts custom-fabricated from heat-resistant alloys for use in high-temperature environments. To learn more, contact us here or call us at 440.243.6800.