Superwool sources?

[mathprofdk]

Hi all,

After reading the research last year, I threw out all my ceramic blankets that had been insulating my 55-gal arch. I'm looking to upgrade to Superwool, and I'm wondering if you have any recommended sources that ship. I'm also wondering what a reasonable price would be. I found a couple, and the prices are so different that it makes me curious.

$10.79/sq ft: http://www.sheffield-pottery.com/SUPERWOOL-607-HT-BLANKET-8-lb-Density-1-p/tcsw607ht.htm
$3/sq ft: http://www.axner.com/superwoolfiber-1thicksoldpersqft.aspx

$100 for a roll, plus $50 shipping, so $3/sq foot including shipping:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/SAFE-Non-Ceramic-Fiber-Blanket-1-8-dens-SW607-HT-/130339459527?_trksid=p2054897.l4276

Any thoughts? These look like they're all the same product. Any recommendations would be helpful. I'll probably just buy a whole roll to be safe.

~DK

[BlueberryHill]

Sheffield looks way too pricey

Axner site does not list a brand name so you don't know what you are getting. I would avoid it.

eBay guy has a decent price and it is Morgan Thermal Ceramics (good stuff)

If you search for a refractory supply house in your area (they are all over the place) I would think that you would be able to get the same stuff that the eBay guy has for less money. The rolls are bulky to ship and that is a big part of the cost. If you found a local place that does not try to rip you off you should be able to get a roll of that for $100 or less if you pick up. If you are getting Morgan Thermal Ceramics or Unifrax products then you are getting good stuff.

Why do you want to switch from the regular ceramic stuff? Just curious what the research says that made you throw that stuff out. In my arch it is sealed behind half bricks that I have cemented in so it's not going anywhere. Good luck in your search.

[G&D MapleSurgaring]

What's wrong with the ceramic blankets that were in there in the first place?

[mathprofdk]

Thanks, BlueberryHill.

If you do some searching here, you'll see a few threads about this topic. The ceramic fibers can become airborne when exposed to high temps and are carcinogenic. My arch uses natural gas, and there isn't room for anything to separate the insulation from the flames, and so I'm worried about them becoming airborne through the stack and possibly getting inhaled or settling into the syrup. It's not a huge risk, but the syrup I make is for family and friends. I'd rather spend the $100 and have a clear conscience, but I know not everyone does.

I think with yours only acting as insulation behind the firebrick and sealed in, there shouldn't be an issue.

~DK