You must consider several factors when choosing insulation for an industrial application. Along with getting to know the types of insulation you can choose from, you have to consider factors like efficiency, performance, thickness, and more.
Today, countless industrial applications require protection against heat loss or heat gain. Use the tips here to know what to consider when choosing insulation and then get to know the types of insulation that are commonly used.
Choosing the Right Insulation
Several applications require protection from heat loss or heat gain. The use of thermal insulation can slow down or ultimately prevent heat from moving from one location and into another.
Each unique application requires different thermal insulation. When installed, it can help to maximize energy efficiency, ensure safety when hot surfaces are present, ensure sanitation, protect equipment, and maintain the desired temperature.
The right type of thermal insulation will make a huge difference when it comes to achieving the objectives of any industrial project.
Consider the Priorities of the Project
The first step in choosing the right thermal insulation is to consider the requirements of your project. You can read on here to learn more about this or consider the following:
Life Cycle Costs
This includes the cost to purchase, install, and maintain the insulation selected.
Worker Safety
If workers are going to be coming into contact with equipment in low or high heat, the right insulation needs to be used. This will keep surface temperatures at a safe level.
Corrosion Concerns
The surface’s corrosion resistance is something to consider. What you are trying to insulate is going to impact the insulation you choose.
Fire Hazards
Some applications create a high risk of fire. This means that non-combustible insulation should be used.
Temperature Range Considerations
The mechanical composition means the insulation’s inherent structure and construction. It doesn’t matter if it is used in high-, medium-, or low-heat applications, insulation is available in several types. The three main types of insulation available today include the following:
Granular Insulation
This type of insulation features hollow, small lumps that are filled up with gas. It can be in liquid form or combined with other substances, like fiber, which create a solid insulation material. Common examples include calcium silicate, open-cell polystyrene, and cellulose.
Cellular Insulation
This insulation consists of autonomous cells. Some examples of this include polyurethane, closed-cell polystyrene, and elastomeric.
Fibrous Insulation
These include small fibers that are found in a 90-degree angle or that are horizontal to the surface being insulated. Examples include glass-fiber or mineral-wool insulation.
Getting to Know Industrial Insulation Materials
Choosing the right type of thermal insulation is essential. Some of the most common types used today are found below.
Mineral Wool
This type of insulation is made out of a mix of slag, stone, or glass. It is heated to a very high temperature and then spun into a type of light fiber structure.
One of the most common mineral wool products is considered Superwool. This is an alkaline earth silicate wool or AES. Mineral wools, such as Superwool, are commonly used for equipment that is operating continuously, along with domestic appliances.
Ceramic Fiber
This type of insulation is created by melting alumino-silicate materials inside a furnace. At this point, a stream is cooled and poured to create the fiber strands.
Ceramic fiber insulation is very lightweight and resistant to thermal shock. It is often used in pipe insulation, kiln linings, furnace linings, packing for higher temperatures, seals, expansion joints, and more.
Firebrick
A firebrick is a block of refractory ceramic material that is made from fireclay, which is a mineral aggregate made of hydrous silicate. This material can withstand higher temperatures and help ensure higher efficiency.
While this material has higher thermal properties, one of the most significant disadvantages is that these are heavier, bulkier, and bigger than other insulation materials. They are commonly used to process ceramics, petrochemicals, and metals. It can also be used in flues, blast furnaces, forging furnaces, furnaces, fireplaces, and kilns.
Microporous
Microporous technology uses the separation of small particles as an effective form of thermal management. This insulation was initially developed for aerospace and space applications because it was so lightweight.
With this insulation, silica is used thanks to how lightweight it is. It is so lightweight because of the restricted particle contact. This means the thermal pathways are limited, which leads to higher levels of thermal resistance and very low thermal conductivity.
The design also helps impeded gaseous conditions while restricting radiation and convection, which makes microporous materials more versatile. You can use this insulation for a wide range of applications, which includes aerospace applications, piping insulation, and furnace lining.
Finding the Right Type of Industrial Insulation
As you can see, there are many factors to consider when choosing industrial insulation. Be sure to keep the tips and information here in mind to find the option that best suits your needs and the project at hand.
If you are unsure what type of insulation best suits your project, contact the professionals. They can evaluate your needs and ensure you get the desired benefits.
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