In the modern industrial and construction fields, the selection of pipeline insulation materials is directly related to energy efficiency and system life. Different insulation materials have their own characteristics, and reasonable selection can significantly reduce energy consumption and extend equipment life. At present, the mainstream pipeline insulation materials on the market can be divided into the following six categories:
1. Rock wool products
Rock wool, as a classic insulation material, is made from natural volcanic rock, with slender fibers and low thermal conductivity (0.035-0.045W/m · K). It has a fire rating of Class A and excellent sound absorption performance, especially suitable for high-temperature steam pipelines (below 600 ℃). But it has strong water absorption and needs to be used in conjunction with a moisture-proof layer.
2. Glass wool
Glass wool is made by melting and drawing waste glass, with fine and uniform fibers (diameter 3-5 μ m). At the same thickness, its insulation effect is better than rock wool, with a lighter bulk density (64kg/m 3), especially suitable for air conditioning duct insulation. After using specialized adhesive, the construction efficiency increased by 40%.
3. Polyurethane foam
Rigid polyurethane foam is foamed in situ, with a closed cell rate of more than 95%, and a thermal conductivity of 0.018W/m · K. The unique "seamless" feature makes it suitable for irregular pipelines, with an overall strength increase of 30% after construction. Especially suitable for low-temperature chilled water pipes (-196 ℃ to 120 ℃).
4. Rubber sponge
Rubber and plastic materials have both flexibility and insulation properties, with an oxygen index of ≥ 32 and B1 level flame retardant performance. Its closed bubble structure results in a water vapor permeability of only 0.03g/m 2 · day, making it particularly suitable for pipeline insulation in humid environments such as hospitals and clean rooms.
5. Aluminum silicate fiber
Aluminum silicate fibers made from gemstones and alumina can be used for a long time at temperatures up to 1000 ℃, making them particularly suitable for high-temperature pipelines in the metallurgical and power industries. Its low heat storage performance reduces heat loss, and when combined with nano coatings, it can be waterproof and oil resistant.
6. Aerogel felt
The thermal conductivity of the new nano material aerogel is as low as 0.016W/m · K, which is only 1/3 of the traditional material. Its lightweight characteristics (density 60-120kg/m 3) make high-altitude pipeline installation more convenient, and the overall cost-effectiveness is extremely high.
The selection should consider factors such as temperature range, humidity conditions, and fire prevention requirements. It is recommended that rubber or polyurethane should be preferred between -50 ℃ and 150 ℃, rock wool or aluminum silicate should be used in high temperature environment (>450 ℃), and rubber or aerogel should be preferred in clean places. High quality insulation materials can reduce energy consumption by 30% -50% and significantly improve system operating efficiency.