The service life of refractory materials is an important cost factor in the clinker burning process. The lifetime of the refractory lining depends on a multitude of factors and above all on local stresses due to mechanical, thermal and chemical attack. In accordance with these stresses, suitable materials, types of lining and metallic anchors have to be selected. Depending on the fuels used and their chemical and physical condition, damage can occur as chemical attacks on bricks, linings and anchors. Because of the complex geometric shape of preheater and calciner systems and the flexible and rapid installation technique, nowadays monolithic refractory materials are mostly used. Besides the right choice of materials, the proper installation of the refractory affects the lifetime of the lining. To prevent damage during operation the condition of used refractory material must be correctly assessed during maintenance and winter outages. The seminar will give an overview of the relevant questions regarding current refractory technology and includes a visit to Jura Cement in Wildegg, Switzerland.