Our foundry has successfully shipped the first batch of high chrome heat resistant steel active grate chains and driven grate chains to a biomass power plant located in Southeast Asia. This delivery marks an important step in our expansion into the renewable energy sector, where reliable boiler components are essential for continuous operation under high temperature and corrosive conditions.
The shipment includes 120 meters of active grate chains and 120 meters of driven grate chains, along with associated connecting links and wear pads. All components were cast from a proprietary high chrome heat resistant steel grade containing approximately 26 percent chromium and 2 percent nickel, with additional molybdenum and niobium for enhanced creep strength. This alloy is specifically designed for biomass combustion environments, where grate chains must withstand temperatures up to 1050 degrees Celsius while resisting oxidation, carburization, and attack from alkali chlorides present in agricultural residues and wood chips.
Each chain link was produced using precision sand casting followed by solution heat treatment and stabilized annealing to develop a fully austenitic matrix with finely dispersed chromium carbides. This microstructure provides exceptional hot hardness and resistance to deformation under the mechanical loads of continuous reciprocating grate motion. The active grate chains feature integrally cast pusher blocks that move fuel across the grate, while the driven chains incorporate hardened bushings to reduce wear at articulation points.
Prior to shipment, every chain underwent rigorous quality assurance. Dimensional inspection was performed using laser scanning to ensure compatibility with the customer's existing grate drive system. Hardness testing at elevated temperatures confirmed that the chains maintain more than 200 Brinell at 900 degrees Celsius. Non destructive testing using dye penetrant inspection verified the absence of surface cracks or internal porosity. The customer also requested destructive testing of two sample links, which demonstrated tensile strength exceeding 550 megapascals and elongation of 12 percent at room temperature.
The biomass power plant in Southeast Asia processes rice husks and palm kernel shells, materials that produce highly abrasive and corrosive flue gases. According to the plant manager, previous grate chains made from conventional heat resistant steel lasted only six months before severe scaling and wear required replacement. Our high chrome heat resistant steel chains are projected to deliver a service life of at least eighteen months, significantly reducing maintenance downtime and replacement costs.
With this first shipment successfully delivered, we have received a follow up order for additional grate chains and are in discussions with two other biomass power plants in the region. For inquiries about high chrome heat resistant steel grate chains and other boiler components, please contact our export sales team.
