What material are baffles often constructed of if they allow gases to flow between them?

Baffles are often constructed of refractory material when they are used in applications that involve high temperatures, such as in furnaces or other combustion equipment. Refractory materials are designed to withstand extreme heat without deforming or losing strength, making them ideal for environments where gases flow through and need to be contained or directed.

In scenarios where baffles need to allow gases to flow between them, refractory materials manage the high temperatures effectively while ensuring the integrity of the structure remains intact. This is crucial for maintaining efficiency and safety in thermal processes.

While metals, plastics, and wood may have applications in other types of baffle designs, they typically do not offer the same thermal resistance as refractory materials in high-temperature situations. Metal can fail under high thermal stress or corrosion, plastic may melt or degrade at elevated temperatures, and wood is unsuitable due to its flammability and low heat resistance. Therefore, refractory materials are the most appropriate choice for constructing baffles that must accommodate gas flow in high-temperature conditions.