Steel-Backed Ceramic Liner for a Cement Transfer Chute in Chile

A cement plant in Chile was experiencing repeated wear in a material transfer chute.

The problem was concentrated along several fixed areas of the chute wall. Rather than heavy impact, the main wear mechanism was continuous sliding abrasion as the material followed almost the same path during operation. The original steel surface gradually became thinner, and local repair welding was required during shutdowns.

For these high-wear sections, the plant selected a steel-backed ceramic liner instead of continuing to repair the chute shell.

The liner panels consisted of alumina ceramic tiles fixed onto fabricated steel backing plates. Welded studs on the back allowed each panel to be mechanically mounted inside the chute.

One detail was particularly important: the ceramic tiles were not simply arranged in straight continuous rows. The layout was adjusted according to the material flow direction, with staggered joints helping to avoid long wear paths along the ceramic gaps.

Because this chute was mainly exposed to sliding abrasion rather than severe impact, a rubber cushioning layer was not necessary. A rigid ceramic + steel structure provided the wear surface and the installation support required for this application.

The modular design also simplified future maintenance. If wear becomes concentrated in one area, individual liner panels can be replaced without removing the complete lining system.

Panel dimensions, ceramic thickness, steel backing thickness, and stud positions can all be adjusted according to the chute drawing and installation space.

For cement plants, this type of liner is particularly suitable for transfer chutes, hoppers, bins, and other sections where the material flow path is stable, and wear is concentrated in clearly defined areas.