Understanding Stainless Steel Flue Liners: Insights from ProSweep Chimney Sweep

When it comes to maintaining a safe and efficient chimney, the choice of flue liner is crucial. The majority of liner manufacturers claim their 316L and 904L grade stainless steel products are suitable for multi-fuel appliances. These liners are designed to be used with appliances burning solid smokeless fuels, bituminous coal, peat, lignite briquettes, logs, and wood briquettes. However, issues with flue liners can arise due to corrosion. Let’s delve into why this happens and how you can prevent it.

Why Do Flue Liners Fail?

Chemical Reactions in Solid Mineral Fuels:
Burning solid mineral fuels releases a mix of substances up the chimney. Hydrocarbons always produce water vapour as part of the combustion process. Typically, flue gases contain various compounds of sulphur, hydrogen, nitrogen, and water vapour. When the chimney is sufficiently hot, these gases successfully exit the property. However, if the chimney is cold, water vapour condenses into droplets, forming a corrosive acidic condensate that can attack the stainless steel liner.

Low Flue Gas Temperatures:
Anthracite-based fuels, such as manufactured ovoids, can burn for many hours in slumber mode. While this is convenient, it results in low flue gas temperatures, exacerbating the condensation problem. Over time, the acidic condensate causes pinholes in the stainless steel, eventually leading to liner collapse. To prevent this, regularly burn the fire hot to raise flue gas temperatures and dry out moisture.

Challenges with Wood Burning

High Moisture Content:
Burning wood with a moisture content above 20% leads to severe condensation issues within the flue. This creates a creosote-like substance that is difficult to remove and can cause leaks through any fissures. Creosote is also highly volatile, increasing the risk of chimney fires. It is essential to maintain a decent flue gas temperature at all times, which is why we recommend using a fixed flue thermometer.

ProSweep: Your Trusted Chimney Sweep Experts

ProSweep has over 14 years of experience serving South Devon and the Teignbridge area. We offer comprehensive chimney sweeping services, including expert advice on maintaining your flue liners and preventing corrosion. Based in Bovey Tracey, we proudly serve:

Proud Member of the Devon Trading Standards Buy with Confidence Scheme

At ProSweep, we take immense pride in being part of the Devon Trading Standards Buy with Confidence scheme. This prestigious accreditation means that our services are rigorously inspected, vetted, and approved, giving you complete peace of mind when you book with us. Trust in our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

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