Insulation Innovation Blog

From the outside, an oil refinery may look like an endless maze of pipes, chimney stacks, steel columns, and vessels. The fact is, however, oil refineries are highly sophisticated industrial facilities transforming crude oil into valuable products used in an array of applications.

Vapor barriers are extremely important when insulating mechanical piping, especially cold systems, particularly in high humidity conditions such as the gulf coast. Proper insulation of these pipes will help avoid massive failures that could lead to liability exposure. Also, consideration should be given to joint sealing, as this is also critical to long-term quality and function of the mechanical pipe system.

When it comes to the material makeup of a removable insulation blanket, there are a number of material combinations that can be used for the outer facing. Fabricators turn to high-temperature fabrics because they offer strength, durability and heat resistance.

Mechanical piping systems can produce significant noise if they are not properly insulated. A well designed acoustical lagging system, will provide effective noise reduction and also block noise. If the reduction of noise is required, Vinaflex™ VP is the answer.

Glass fiber has become a popular material utilized throughout several industrial industries such as oil and gas, marine and chemical, just to name a few. Glass fiber also plays a role in many industrial insulation processes and end products such as fabrics for high-temperature applications.

Calcium silicate is considered a thermal insulation and is composed of hydrous calcium silicate, which contains reinforcing fibers and has a natural white color. It is supplied in block form for the fabrication of insulation for mechanical piping applications. It is often commonly used as a safe alternative to asbestos for high-temperature insulation materials.

Safety data sheets are an essential component of product stewardship, occupational safety and health. However, they are not required for every product or material.  

Sustainable design in industrial insulation systems is an important factor to take into consideration, and the demand for feasible insulating products with an eco-friendly impact continues to grow. Cellular glass insulation offers exceptional physical characteristics that in the end benefit the user.

Previously we discussed the difference between FSK and ASJ facings. Products that play a large role with facings are tapes and mastics, which ensures that the facing remains crisp and seamless.

Pressure sensitive tape or insulating tape is an essential component of any installation, repair and manufacturing project. Insulation tapes can help reinforce your work for years of worry-free and maintenance-free service.

Facings are fastened to insulation materials during the manufacturing process. They are used on insulation to protect and hold the insulation together. Your climate and where and how you are installing the insulation will determine what type of facing you will need.