What is a disadvantage of using a refractory burner?

The choice of high initial cost as a disadvantage of using a refractory burner is accurate because refractory burners utilize materials that can withstand high temperatures without deforming or deteriorating. These specialized materials and the design required to contain and operate at such high temperatures contribute to a significant up-front investment.

In many cases, the costs associated with both the materials used to construct refractory burners and the complex engineering involved in designing systems around them can be quite high compared to conventional burners. This initial expense can deter some users, particularly in situations where budget constraints are a priority. Consequently, while refractory burners may offer advantages in terms of performance and longevity under extreme conditions, their prohibitive initial cost can be seen as a substantial disadvantage in the decision-making process for selecting the appropriate burner technology.