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Pipe insulation is not the same across the board, with many choices available. It only performs its best when applied correctly, which includes using the right material for the right project.
Will it be fiberglass or mineral wool? Polyurethane or phenolic insulation? Learn about the different types of thermal pipe insulation and how to pick the right one for your needs.
Types of Thermal Pipe Insulation
Pipe insulation reduces heat transfer of thermal energy to and from the surface of the piping system, providing heat conservation. However, there are several types, and the one you need depends on your application. Consider these options as you approach your option.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is always one form of insulating material that comes to mind for even the simplest of projects. It&#;s made of fine glass fibers, which provide thermal insulation and are a lightweight and cost-effective option. Fiberglass is available in the form of blankets, board, duct liners or elbows, depending on your needs.
Benefits of fiberglass
Fiberglass insulation has several additional benefits. When you choose fiberglass pipe insulation for your project, you get a solution that:
- Retains temperature, boosting your energy efficiency
- Doubles as acoustic insulation
Polyurethane
Polyurethane is as cold as ice&#;or at least, it&#;s most effective in cold environments. It&#;s a form of cold foam insulation used on cold surfaces of piping to avoid heat gain or condensation. Polyurethane withstands temperatures ranging from -150 C to 110 C, and it&#;s most often available in preformed cylindrical shapes to conform to piping.
Benefits of polyurethane
Polyurethane insulation also has sound dampening properties. It doubles as acoustic insulation to reduce noise and vibration from pipes.
Phenolic
What do you get when you mix solids and liquids? Phenolic pipe insulation.
It&#;s a rigid foam-based cellular pipe insulation material made by mixing solids with phenolic resin and a surface reacting agent. Phenolic insulation is the most energy-efficient insulation available for any given thickness, and it&#;s available in buns or foil-faced sections to conform to pipes. This thermal pipe insulation withstands cooler temperatures, ranging from -50 C all the way up to 120 C.
Benefits of phenolic insulation
Phenolic insulation packs a protective punch. When you choose phenolic pipe insulation for your project, you get a solution that:
- Is moisture resistant
- Has low thermal conductivity and flammability
Mineral Wool
It&#;s getting hot in here, so use some mineral wool. Mineral wool is a form of hot insulation made of inorganic fibers and enhanced with glass fibers. Mineral or rockwool is available in batts or sections with a factory-applied foil covering. Apply this thermal pipe insulation to hot surfaces of a piping system to conserve heat, as it&#;s crafted to withstand up to 700 C!
Benefits of mineral wool insulation
Mineral wool insulation does a ton to guard against the effects of the environment. Mineral wool pipe insulation is a solution that:
- Prevents rot, corrosion and mildew
- Resists smoke and fire spread
Cellular Glass (Foamglas)
If you need a durable thermal pipe insulation, cellular glass could fit the bill. It&#;s made from closed-cell glass, which makes it impermeable to water, and it can be fabricated into all shapes and sizes. Cellular glass is also non-combustible and moisture resistant, with high compressive strength and fireproofing qualities. It withstands a wide range of temperatures, from -268 C to 482 C, making it ideal for cold and hot applications.
Benefits of cellular glass
Cellular glass insulation isn&#;t just extremely flexible for your needs, but for the environment, too. It&#;s environmentally sustainable for use in commercial and industrial applications.
Aerogel
Talk about flexibility: Aerogel is a synthetic, lightweight material with low density that works wonders as a thermal insulator. It&#;s used in both cold (Cryogel) and hot (Pyrogel) applications and is available as blankets, pipe coverings and elbows. Aerogel withstands temperatures ranging from -268 C up to 650 C, making it effective in industrial, commercial and subsea spaces.
Benefits of aerogel insulation
Aerogel insulation helps you work smarter, not harder. The material helps you reduce labor costs because it cuts easily, limiting or eliminating in-field fabrication time and cost and speeding up installation.
Calcium Silicate (CalSil)
You don&#;t want to worry more about fire than you have to. CalSil takes care of this as a high-temperature, high-strength thermal insulation that uses its crystalline structure to provide insulation. It offers high-temperature structural integrity, high compressive strength and corrosion inhibition, and it&#;s used to insulate high-temperature pipes and equipment while providing fire endurance. CalSil withstands temperatures ranging from 121 C to 650 C (pipe and block), or 927 C (fire endurance boards).
Benefits of CalSil
CalSil insulation doesn&#;t just resist high temperatures. When you choose CalSil pipe insulation for your project, you&#;re doing more to:
- Protect the environment with an asbestos-free and landfill disposable material
- Reduce labor costs by cutting in-field fabrication
Perlite
If foam insulation fits your needs, perlite could be an effective choice. It&#;s an inorganic material that has a foam-like internal structure, so it has a low density and is an efficient insulator. Perlite is non-combustible and resistant to corrosion under insulation, both of which help this thermal pipe insulation protect pipes, fittings, refractory bricks, boilers and industrial furnaces. Perlite is effective in cryogenic and high-temperature applications, and it can withstand temperatures ranging from -268 C to 980 C.
Benefits of perlite insulation
Perlite insulation provides 360-degree protection. That means it is a thermal pipe insulation that:
- Acts as a sound dampener
- Resists water absorption
- Poses no known health risks
How to Pick the Right Thermal Pipe Insulation
Aside from materials, applications and a few core benefits, several other must-haves dictate which kind of thermal pipe insulation you need. Take these into account when you prepare for your project.
Measurement
How big are the pipes you need to insulate? Take the right measurements to ensure compatibility between your pipes and the materials you wish to use.
Be sure to account for the following:
- Consider the pipe bore: Pipe bore is the outside diameter (OD) of the pipe, which is usually higher than internal bore size.
- Don&#;t slack on insulation thickness: Thicker insulation reduces heat loss from pipes and provides greater protection from freezing temperatures. If your project is an outdoor application, insulation thickness should be at least 19 mm.
Temperature
What is the environment like where you will be installing the insulation? What can certain insulations withstand? To be effective, both the environment and insulation should be compatible.
Need a cheat sheet? Here you go:
- The best low-temperature insulation: Cellular plastic or foam rubber
- The best moderate-temperature insulation: Glass fiber
- The best high-temperature insulation: Preformed cement, refractory materials or ceramic fiber blankets
Interior vs. exterior
Mother Nature packs a wallop on piping systems&#;and by extension, thermal pipe insulation. So make sure you use the right materials, depending on whether you have an interior or exterior application.
Below are a few more tips:
- Phenolic and mineral wool insulation: Primarily interior, but can be used outdoors when used with Polyisobutylene (PIB) sheeting
- Polyurethane and fiberglass: Indoor only
- Aerogel: Indoor or outdoor
- Calcium Silicate: Indoor/Outdoor
- Perlite: Indoor/Outdoor
Don&#;t just pick any old insulation for your project. Look at the decision from multiple angles so the solution truly meets your needs!
Trust an Expert to Pick the Right Insulation
When it comes to thermal pipe insulation, the choices can be overwhelming. But remember why and where you need it, and choose accordingly&#;taking added benefits into account.
Does the decision still seem daunting? Get expert insights from the pros at Distribution International. Contact us to get on the right track and secure the best insulation for your project.
Link to Langfang Clear Chemical
In the vast and intricate world of industrial facilities, the significance of maintaining the temperature of liquids flowing through pipes is paramount. Pipe insulation serves as a protective cloak that helps to ensure optimal temperature regulation and energy efficiency. Understanding the different types of pipe insulation is crucial to selecting the right one for specific applications.
Unraveling the Different Types of Pipe Insulation
Pipe insulation materials are as varied as they are essential. Here, we uncover the diverse types available, each serving a unique purpose in the industrial landscape.
1. Polyethylene
Recognized for its remarkable flexibility and lightweight structure, polyethylene is extensively utilized in cooling applications and widely favored in both residential and commercial sectors.
2. Polyisocyanurate
Also known as PIR, polyisocyanurate is an advanced form of polyurethane foam insulation. It excels in high-temperature applications due to its excellent fire resistance and thermal efficiency. With the ability to withstand continuous exposure to temperatures up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit without rapid degradation, PIR insulation is a reliable choice for demanding industrial purposes.
3. Polystyrene
Polystyrene is a popular material known for its exceptional insulation properties. It is widely used in low-temperature applications to provide consistent and reliable thermal insulation.
4. Polyurethane
Polyurethane insulation is highly esteemed for its exceptional insulating properties and impressive durability. It retains its shape and insulation effectiveness across a wide range of temperatures, which makes it the preferred choice for insulating refrigeration systems and chilled water pipes. Its remarkable resistance to moisture absorption enhances its lifespan which means it is a cost-effective solution in the long run.
5. Phenolic
Phenolic foam insulation is widely recognized for its exceptional fire resistance and low smoke emission. It is a great choice for environments that demand high fire safety standards. Check out this link for more information: Phenolic foam insulation.
It has a low thermal conductivity for superior insulation performance and energy efficiency.
6. Fiberglass
Fiberglass insulation is known for its exceptional thermal insulation, cost-effectiveness, and fire resistance. Made of fine glass fibers that effectively trap pockets of air, it offers excellent thermal insulation properties. It is also non-combustible, which makes it a safer choice in environments prone to fire hazards.
The use of a vapor barrier is necessary with fiberglass insulation to prevent moisture absorption.
7. Mineral Wool
Mineral wool, also known as rock wool, is widely acclaimed in industrial settings due to its exceptional thermal and acoustic insulation properties. It is a versatile material that is produced by spinning molten rock or industrial waste into fibers, to effectively impede heat transfer and minimize noise.
With an impressive temperature tolerance of up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit, mineral wool is particularly suitable for high-temperature applications. It exhibits fire-resistant characteristics, repels water, and mitigates the risk of mold and corrosion. Similar to fiberglass, the use of a vapor barrier is necessary to prevent moisture infiltration.
8. Nitrile Rubber
Nitrile rubber, highly regarded for its moisture and flame resistance, is the optimal choice for refrigeration lines and air-conditioning systems. It is renowned for its exceptional durability and flexibility, and easy installation in various configurations. With impressive oil and chemical resistance, nitrile rubber insulation guarantees long-lasting and reliable performance even in systems exposed to such substances.
9. EPDM Rubber
EPDM rubber insulation is highly durable and resistant to UV radiation, so it is an excellent choice for outdoor applications. It can withstand diverse weather conditions without significant degradation. Its elasticity and flexibility make installation easy and help to ensure a precise fit around pipes. However, EPDM, like other rubber insulations, is not suitable for high-temperature environments.
Practical Uses of Various Pipe Insulation Materials
Understanding where and why each type of pipe insulation is used is key to selecting the best pipe insulation material for any given scenario.
Thermal Efficiency
The primary objective of insulation is to minimize heat loss or gain in pipework, thereby enhancing energy efficiency. Opting for insulation materials with low thermal conductivity is recommended, as they exhibit superior resistance to heat transfer.
- PIR and Phenolic foam insulations demonstrate extremely low thermal conductivity, to effectively prevent heat loss.
- Mineral wool and fiberglass insulation, on the other hand, are preferred for applications involving high temperatures due to their exceptional ability to withstand extreme temperature conditions.
To ensure suitable insulation selection, it is crucial to thoroughly comprehend the thermal requirements of the system.
Condensation Control
Fluctuations in temperature can trigger the formation of condensation, which in turn leads to corrosion, insulation deterioration, and the unwelcome presence of moisture. To combat this, it is common practice to employ waterproof insulation materials equipped with vapor barriers such as rubber, fiberglass, and mineral wool.
Ensuring proper installation guarantees a watertight seal, to effectively prevent the ingress of moisture and thereby preserve the system&#;s efficiency and lifespan. The application of insulation in HVAC systems and refrigeration lines proves instrumental in regulating condensation, staving off corrosion, and extending the overall longevity of the system.
Freeze Protection
Ensuring proper freeze protection is critical when choosing pipe insulation. Exposed pipes in freezing temperatures can lead to substantial expenses and disruptions. Effective insulation reduces heat loss and mitigates potential risks. High R-value materials, such as polyurethane foam, are commonly used for this purpose.
Noise Reduction
Noise reduction is crucial, especially in residential or commercial buildings where pipe noise can disrupt. Insulation acts as a sound barrier that can help to minimize noise from water, gas, or other fluids in pipes. Materials like fiberglass, mineral wool, and polyurethane foam are helpful due to their excellent sound absorption. These types of insulating materials can create a peaceful and comfortable environment by reducing pipe noise.
Rubber insulation, in particular, acts as a sound barrier, to help minimize noise from vibrating pipes in residential and commercial buildings.
The Significance of Insulated Pipe Supports
Beyond the insulation itself, the role of insulated pipe supports cannot be overstated. They secure the insulated pipes, to help ensure alignment and structural integrity.
Insulated pipe supports, like those offered by Buckaroos®, are crucial in safeguarding the insulation material and maintaining the efficacy of the entire insulation system. They provide:
- Structural Integrity: They provide stability to the insulated pipes and prevent sagging and help to ensure long-term performance.
- Thermal Efficiency: By securing the insulation in place, they help maintain the thermal efficiency of the insulation material.
- Versatility: With options such as Phenolic and Polyisocyanurate supports available, they can be utilized in a wide range of applications.
Buckaroos® &#; Your Go-To Solution for Pipe Insulation and Supports
Buckaroos® stands out as a leader in providing high-quality pipe insulation types and insulated pipe supports. Whether you&#;re looking for Phenolic supports for their fire performance or Polyisocyanurate for high-temperature applications, Buckaroos® has a solution tailored to your needs.
Explore the Buckaroos® Range
CoolDry&#; Insulated Pipe Supports
Our Polyphen&#; rigid phenolic foam insulation provides top-notch thermal performance and durability, and when it comes to resisting moisture intrusion, CoolDry&#; Insulated Pipe Supports are the ultimate solution, especially in condensation-prone situations. Trust us to keep your pipes in top shape!
CoolDry&#; Sliding Pipe Supports
Introducing our CoolDry&#; Sliding Pipe Supports, a 360° insulated pipe support system for chilled water applications! It&#;s designed to handle controlled linear expansion and contraction up to 4&#; in one direction. Our system is manufactured with Polyphen&#; rigid phenolic foam insulation, which has been tested and passed the ASTM E-87 Class A requirements for flame spread and smoke development (25/50 rating).
CoolDry&#; Heavy Duty Pipe Supports
CoolDry&#; Heavy Duty Pipe Supports are specially designed for chilled water and cold piping systems that experience significant movement caused by expansion and contraction. It is recommended for roller hanger applications as well as trapeze and strut systems. If you need to use it outdoors, make sure to protect it from the weather. These saddles meet the MSS SP-58/69, Type 40 Shield requirements, for top-quality performance and durability.
E Insulated Polyisocyanurate Pipe Support
Our E Insulated Polyisocyanurate Pipe Support is a 360° insulated pipe support system that is perfect for cold piping systems operating below ambient temperatures. Crafted with rigid polyisocyanurate insulation, it ensures optimal performance and efficiency.
Take the Next Step in Industrial Piping &#; Discover Buckaroos® Solutions
Don&#;t compromise on the performance and durability of your industrial piping. Make the right choice for your pipe insulation and support needs with Buckaroos®.
Our diverse range of industrial piping solutions caters to various requirements, in order to provide high structural integrity and thermal efficiency. Explore our products and find the perfect fit for your application.
Contact us today and take the first step towards extending the life and efficiency of your pipe systems!
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Phenolic Foam Insulation Pipe. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.