Sep 4, 2026
SLM-1000 vs SLM-1200: How to Choose the Right Nano Insulation Board for Your Ladle
Two temperature grades, two applications. A practical comparison of SLM-1000 (1000 C) and SLM-1200 (1200 C) nano insulation boards for steel ladles, tundish covers and industrial furnace backup layers
Why the SLM family comes in two grades
SLM high-strength nano insulation boards are produced in two temperature grades: SLM-1000, rated for continuous service at 1000 C, and SLM-1200, rated for continuous service at 1200 C. Both share the same nano-microporous core, the same low thermal conductivity and the same installation workflow. The difference is the maximum hot-face temperature the board can sustain without shrinkage, cracking or loss of compressive strength. Pick the wrong grade and you either pay for capability you do not need or you shorten campaign life.
Quick comparison
SLM-1000 is the workhorse grade: ladle roofs, tundish covers, ladle backup layers and anywhere the hot face stays at or below 1000 C. SLM-1200 is the higher-end grade: ladle impact pads, slag-line zones and furnace backup layers where the hot face passes 1000 C and can touch 1200 C in transient peaks. Both deliver similar thermal conductivity around 0.024 W/mK at 600 C mean temperature, the same 0.6 MPa or higher cold crushing strength, and the same 6 mm to 50 mm thickness range. A 25 mm SLM-1000 board and a 25 mm SLM-1200 board install exactly the same way; the price gap reflects the higher-temperature raw materials in SLM-1200.
When to pick SLM-1000
If the hot face stays at or below 1000 C, SLM-1000 is the right call. That covers the majority of steel ladle backup layers, tundish covers and forge furnace door linings. It is also the standard choice for ladle roofs where the shell-side temperature stays moderate.
When to pick SLM-1200
If the hot face regularly crosses 1000 C, typically at ladle impact pads, slag-line zones or behind high-temperature monolithic castables, go with SLM-1200. The extra cost per board is small compared with the cost of an unplanned reline.
How to verify the hot-face temperature
Before ordering, ask your refractory installer for the steady-state hot-face temperature and any transient peaks during steel tapping. If the answer is 950 C with occasional 1020 C peaks, SLM-1000 is acceptable but SLM-1200 is safer. If the answer is consistently above 1000 C, SLM-1200 is the only correct choice.
For samples of either grade, contact the SLM engineering team on WhatsApp +86 135 8471 3740 with your hot-face temperature and board dimensions.The best entryway systems are small, visible, and specific. Give keys, wallet, bag, and outgoing items one clear place to land.
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