Pipeshells

Low temperature and cryogenic vessels, pipelines and ducting are used in applications including air-conditioning and chilled water systems, as well as pipework in process manufacturing, where fluid temperatures may go as low as -180°C. To maintain operating temperatures the pipework and vessels must be correctly insulated.

These demanding applications require materials which:

• can withstand the service temperatures
• are durable
• meet hygiene requirements for the electronics, food and drink, and pharmaceutical industries

STYROFOAM™ offers:

• effective insulation – the specified thermal performance can be achieved with minimal thickness
• sustained performance – retains mechanical and thermal properties over a long life span
• resistance to water penetration – the closed cell structure protects against deterioration through water vapour diffusion and ice formation – even if the vapour barrier is damaged
• protection against corrosion stress cracking – thanks to the low ammonium and chloride ion content of STYROFOAM
• a high strength to weight ratio makes it possible to use sections of up to 1.2m (depending on pipe diameter) without support; it maintains its compressive, shear and flexural strengths even when surface temperatures are as high as 80°C
• the strength and homogeneity of STYROFOAM mean it can be factory-formed to precise shapes and can also be cut to shape on site
• it contains no fibres and is practically pH neutral, making it suitable for use in clean areas and food processing sites

Fabricated sections are available pre-laminated with a variety of exterior finishes which form an integral vapour barrier and enhance impact resistance and fire resistance and make for easy cleaning.

Recommendations on design principles and the use of materials for pipe insulation may be found in

• BS5422, 1990, "Methods for Specifying Thermal Insulating Materials on Pipes, Ductwork and Equipment"
• BS5970, 1992, "Code of Practice for Thermal Insulation of Pipework and Equipment (in the Temperature Range - 100°C to +870°C)"
• CINI specifications "Stichting Isoladie Nederlandse Industrie"
• SNI specification "Règles professionalles pour l'isolation des installations d'eau glacée."

Specialist support is available from our Technical Service and Development engineers, backed up by our Foams Research Laboratories in Rheinmünster, Germany. The service includes:

• guidance on the selection of fabricators
• recommendations on insulation specifications for projects
• provision of independent certification