Insulation Materials By A Bhatia

• Prevention of heat loss by application of insulation is the simplest method of achieving substantial economies in energy. Some estimates have predicted that insulation in US industry alone saves approximately 200 million barrels of oil every year. The other benefits include the improved productivity, enhanced environmental quality, personal safety, process control, reduction in noise levels and also the fire safety.
• The most important characteristics of an insulation material is low thermal conductivity, low tendency toward absorbing water, and of course the material should be inexpensive. The type of insulation selected should be able to withstand whatever conditions it will experience without degradation. In process industry, the most common insulators are various types of calcium silicate or fiberglass. Calcium silicate is generally more appropriate for temperatures above 225?C (437?F), while fiberglass is generally used at temperatures below 225?C (437?F).