As their names imply, refractory brick is used to withstand high temperature and flame, while insulation brick is used to insulate and reduce heat loss. The insulation bricks seldom directly contact flame, while refractory bricks can directly contact flame. Both have their advantages and are used in different parts of furnaces.
Insulation bricks always have thermal conductivity between 0.2-0.4 w/m.k (350±25℃), while refractory bricks have thermal conductivity above 1.0w/m.k(350±25℃). So, insulation bricks have better insulation performance than refractory bricks. the refractoriness of insulation bricks is usually under 1400 degree, while that of refractory bricks is above 1400 degree. insulation bricks are generally lightweight materials with a density between 0.8-1.0g/cm3, while that of refractory bricks is above 2.0g/cm3.
Refractory bricks have better mechanical strength, long service life and better chemical stability. They do not react with batch materials. They have better high temperature performance and can withstand high temperature up to 1900℃.
Refractory bricks and insulation bricksa are quite different. Their applications and functions are quite different. It is important to select the right materials according to the actual conditions.