Industrial Insulation: Pipe and Tank Application Methods

Pipe Insulation Techniques

Thermal insulation pieces must be secured with wire clamps. The spacing of these clamps, typically 20 to 45 meters, depends on the pipe size and the thickness of the insulation applied.

It is crucial to avoid gaps between insulation joints. These gaps should be filled with insulated plastic or a smooth paste specifically prepared for this purpose, ensuring it forms a cohesive body with the applied insulation.

Applying Mineral and Plastic Insulation

When applying mineral insulation, pieces must be joined in a way that they are intertwined, ensuring a continuous and effective thermal barrier.

Plastic insulation is typically supplied in powder form. For application, it must be mixed with clean water until a smooth, consistent paste is formed. This paste should be applied to the hot pipe surface until the required insulation thickness is achieved.

Insulating Flanges, Valves, and Fittings

The insulation of flanges, valves, and fittings should be applied after the connecting pipes have been insulated. For valve insulation, either plastic insulation or specialized boxes lined with flexible or rigid insulation can be used.

Container and Tank Insulation Best Practices

Insulating containers and tanks requires a comprehensive set of precautions, beginning with a thorough inspection of surfaces.

Surface Preparation for Tank Insulation

• Surfaces must be completely dry and free from scales, grease, or any other contaminants.
• All identification plates and placards on the container must remain visible (not covered by insulation) or be duplicated and visibly affixed to the insulation surface.

Mounting Insulation on Tanks

For small-diameter tanks, insulation is typically supported by circumferentially coiled wires and holding bolts. If clamps are used, they should be bent to secure both the insulation and any reinforcement mesh. The securing mechanism should be welded to the shell surface.

Rigid Insulation Materials for Tanks

Rigid insulation materials are commonly available in plate form (e.g., 1 meter by 250 mm) or as panels (e.g., 1.80 meters by 1 meter in width, with thicknesses ranging from 10 mm to 120 mm). These pieces are mounted onto the tank surfaces using galvanized wires, ensuring staggered joints for optimal coverage. If multiple layers are applied, each layer must be fixed individually.

Important Note: Rigid insulation materials are not recommended if the radial expansion of the tank exceeds 3 mm.

Ground-Supported Tank Insulation

For tanks supported directly on the ground, the insulation should begin approximately 500 mm from the ground to the first support ring. This clearance prevents the insulation from coming into contact with moisture or water retained by the soil, thereby preserving its integrity and effectiveness.