Thermal Analysis in an Intermittent Kiln with Thermal Insulation: An Experimental Design Approach

The main purpose of this work is to evaluate the influence of the thickness and thermophysical properties of insulating materials on the maximum external surface temperature and energy gain provided for an intermittent ceramic kiln operating with natural gas as fuel. To evaluate the influence of independent variables on response variables, a factorial experimental design was developed. From the analysis of variance (ANOVA), it was possible to determine significant and well-adjusted mathematical models for both response variables. It was verified that the thickness and thermal conductivity of thermal insulation are the independent variables that have the greatest influence on the process efficiency.