Foamglas Industrial Insulation
Whether your insulation need is for a hot or a cold system, insulation is important. While temperatures close to ambient require minimal insulation; hot, cold, or cyclic applications need a more thought out insulation system to compensate not just for heat transfer, but moisture transfer. Moisture in insulation systems can cause many problems for how long your insulation will last, and you should read our blog on corrosion under insulation if you would like more information.
Benefits
Foamglas insulation is ideal for insulation systems that are either much higher or lower than the ambient temperature. Cellular glass shines in cryogenic applications, due to the closed cell structure from its manufacture. This closed cell insulation means that it is impermeable to water vapour or liquid. This lowers the requirement for moisture barriers, and the insulation will not soak up any moisture and store it in structure when installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations, which can happen with some foam or wool insulation products. Moisture in the insulation reduces the effectiveness of the insulation and also the life of the insulation. If the temperature in the insulation is below freezing, moisture that forms ice will damage the structure. You will not run into these problems if you install closed cell Foamglas as per instructions, so you should call us if you have any questions.
Cellular glass is ideal for cryogenic temperature applications for LNG plants. Key factors are the impermeability and the non combustibility of the insulation, both very important for the LNG industry. The high compressive load means that Foamglas is ideal for insulating the bases of tanks. Dimensional stability keeps the supports in the same configuration, even when subject to extreme temperatures. The lack of flammable chemicals and hydrocarbon binders mean that the product is completely fire retardant.
Sustainability
Foamglas products are an ideal product from a sustainable standpoint. Other insulation products need to be replaced due to settling or sagging or losing effectiveness. Replacing cellular glass is not necessary since it is stable and rigid enough to keep its structural integrity. Energy savings and insulation effectiveness will be constant for a longer time with foamglas than other insulation products. Shutdowns can be expensive, and this high quality insulation aims to reduce the impact of shutdowns across the life of your operation.
Fireproofing
Since Foamglas insulation is 100% glass, without binders or fillers, it simply cannot burn. This is even when in direct contact with intense flame. According to Pittsburgh Corning, it can actually serve to protect piping and equipment from fire damage, retard fire spread and safeguard personnel. There are no ozone-affecting chemicals used in the production.
Foamglas insulation is used for industrial insulation applications around Australia and the world for over 75 years for industrial process piping and supports for oil and gas storage tanks.