Technical Services & Consulting

Harrop's Technical Services staff and Materials Testing Laboratory play a dual role in our services to  the ceramic industry. These resources are routinely utilized in the process analysis phase of determining a client's kiln needs, and in the critical conceptual design phase of all Harrop dryer and kiln projects.  In addition, we also make these resources available to the industry on an on-going basis through fee-based, stand-alone consulting services.
 
Technical Services
Ceramic manufacturers have come to rely on the industrial experience, the technical expertise, and the unbiased advice of Harrop's full-time professional staff to help achieve improved drying and firing operations.  A growing number of manufacturers contract with us for technical assistance, ranging from raw material behavior to capital investment evaluations.  Our highly trained staff can provide both in-plant and in-house analytical services for all types of ceramic products, and for a wide variety fo kiln types and brands. 
 
Contract Testing
 
Our 10,000 sq. ft. materials testing laboratory and firing facility offer a unique combination of services to the ceramic industry.  Our full-time technicians can conduct standard ASTM compliance testing or customized thermal testing of raw materials and ceramic components.  The thermal and physical behavior of ceramics can be evaluated using such techniques as thermal analysis, psychometric drying, thermal gradient testing, dilatometry, and sintering studies.  From bench-scale testing to pilot-plant production, we offer a broad range of services to evaluate the drying and firing behavior of ceramics.
 
Our Expertise
Troubleshooting Drying and Firing Problems
 
Routine Dryer and Kiln "Tune-Ups"
  
Kiln Energy Audits and Analysis
 
Dryer and Kiln Operator Training
  
Raw Material Evaluations
  
Optimized Drying and Firing Cycles
 
"Fast Firing" Feasibility Studies
  
Plant Expansion Feasibility
 
Capital Cost Alternatives