How to choose pipeline insulation material

Water pipe insulation can improve the efficiency and performance of the piping system and reduce the loss of thermal effects. For areas prone to pipeline freezing, the insulation of the pipeline is the most necessary to do. If this happens, the labor cost for repairs is only high. To ensure that the piping system is safe for the winter, let's take a look at how to operate it.

1. Choose insulating material

First, measure the diameter and length of the pipe to be insulated. Then, choose insulation. The selection should be based on the R value of the pipeline standard. The higher the R value, the better. High-quality insulation sleeves made of foam or fiberglass are excellent choices. They are easy to install and very practical. The foam-type pipe insulation material is flexible, free of fibers and CFC-resistant mold, and will not accumulate dust inside, but will be damaged by high temperatures. Hard glass fiber insulation is used for high-temperature pipelines, but it is expensive.

2. Preparation of pipelines before construction

Do not install water pipe insulation on leaking pipes. Check the entire pipeline carefully, paying special attention to check the pipeline for leaks. If dirt or grease is found in or around the pipe, it must be removed. Before the next installation, make sure the pipes are 100% dry.

3. Insulation

Cut the sleeve along the edge, open it, and slide on the existing pipe. Wrap all tube corners and elbows. Use pipe insulation as much as possible. When performing insulation around corners and around T-joints (especially 90-degree elbows), first cut the insulation layer in one direction and then at a 45-degree angle from the other direction, and then assemble them together. Some types of pipe insulation have a sticky strip on the cutout, which can be easily sealed with the attached tape.

4. Matters needing attention

After the pipeline is insulated, some precautions need to be taken to make it safer. Seal all cuts made with high-quality tape. Multiple joints are used in the pipeline and all joints between the bushings need to be sealed. Pay attention to every corner, the seals at these joints will peel off over time. If glass fiber insulation is used, it is sealed with tape and fixed with wires or clips. Make sure not to insulate objects that should not be insulated, and install flammable insulation near high heat sources without causing a fire. Isolation of hot and cold water pipes is the best way. The pipeline is outside the house, it is insulated and protected, and the fiberglass insulation is more effective outdoors.

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