Overview of Insulation Materials

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). This 5 hour online course provides an overview of insulation materials. This course is aimed at mechanical, chemical & process engineers, system design engineers working in process, manufacturing and engineering industries, energy auditors, operational & maintenance personnel, health & safety personnel and loss prevention engineers. Learning Objective At the conclusion of this course, the student will be aware of: 1) Application, characteristics and potential benefits of insulation to industry 2) Key properties of thermal insulation products 3) Selection aspects of insulating materials 4) Organic & Inorganic type of insulation materials 5) Classification of insulting materials on hot and cold surfaces 6) Forms and shapes of insulating materials 7) Insulation finishes, vapor retarders and weather barriers 8) Method of installation, hangers and supports 9) Recommended best practices, applicable codes & standards 10) Application areas such as pipelines, vessels, stacks, furnaces, kilns etc. 11) Conservation of energy 12) Concept of economic thickness of insulation and selection of right alternatives. The book includes a multiple choice quiz consisting of 25 questions at the end.