When choosing low-temperature pipe insulation materials, it is necessary to consider multiple factors comprehensively to ensure the insulation effect, safety and economy of the materials in low-temperature environments. Here are some key takeaways:
Thermal conductivity
Thermal conductivity is the basic index to measure the quality of insulation materials, which determines the thermal insulation performance of materials. In general, the lower the thermal conductivity, the better the thermal insulation performance.
According to the GB/T17794 standard, the thermal conductivity of the insulation material is not more than 0.041W/(mk) at 40°C; At 0°C, not more than 0.036W/(mk); At -20°C, it is not more than 0.034W/(mk).
The third-generation rubber and plastic foaming technology is used in the market for air conditioning insulation materials, and the thermal conductivity is as low as 0.032W/(mk) at 0°C, which can effectively isolate the cold and heat exchange between the air conditioning piping system and the external environment.
Wet Resistance Factor
The moisture resistance factor is a key indicator to measure the resistance of insulation materials to water vapor permeation, which determines the service life of the material.
GB/T17794 clearly stipulates that the moisture resistance factor of insulation materials μ not less than 1500. The easier it is for a material with a small moisture resistance factor to infiltrate water vapor, resulting in a sharp increase in the thermal conductivity of the insulation material, thus losing the thermal insulation effect.
The air-conditioning insulation material using the third-generation rubber and plastic foaming technology has a fully closed foam structure, and the moisture resistance factor is as high as more than 10,000, which almost eliminates water vapor penetration.
Fire Performance
Reaching the standard of fire performance is the basic requirement for the safety of insulation materials. The fire protection requirements of pipeline insulation materials must reach flame retardant B1 level.
The selection of insulation materials with poor fire performance may leave a safety hazard for the entire system.
Installation performance
Installation performance is an important factor that determines construction efficiency and construction quality. Improper selection of insulation materials will seriously affect the construction progress and construction quality.
For general pipeline work, hard insulation materials such as cork or polystyrene can be selected, because these materials are processed and formed at the factory, which is convenient for construction and stable in thermal insulation.
For the case that the low-temperature pipeline is relatively dense or the structure shape is complex, polyurethane on-site foaming spraying processing can be used, which is convenient for construction and has good effect.
Other considerations
Consider the material’s corrosion resistance, durability, and environmental impact.
According to the specific working temperature and pressure of the pipe, choose a insulation material that can withstand the corresponding temperature and pressure.
Consider the cost of the material as well as the economics of long-term use.
To sum up, when choosing low-temperature pipe insulation materials, it is necessary to comprehensively consider the thermal conductivity, moisture resistance factor, fire performance, installation performance and other related factors. Ensure that the selected materials can provide good thermal insulation in low temperature environments, and at the same time meet the requirements of safety, economy, and environmental protection.
