Posted by Sidney Tannenbaum on | Comments Off on Industrial Pipe Insulation 101: Main Benefits
Industrial pipe insulation is a crucial component in piping systems, as it provides a barrier between the contents of a pipe and the outside environment. This is especially important in buildings where pipes reach high temperatures. Having adequate pipe insulation not only protects personnel but also plays a critical role in a facility’s durability, efficiency, and indoor environmental quality.
The Importance of Pipe Insulation for Your Business
Pipe insulation offers a wide range of benefits that make it important for your business. These benefits include:
Energy Conservation
Industrial pipe insulation prevents heat transfer, resulting in improved energy efficiency for the piping system. By lowering the risk of heat loss or gain, pipe insulation helps to maintain the proper process temperatures while saving money on energy costs.
Freeze Protection
In some applications, pipes are installed in below-freezing environments. Proper insulation will reduce the likelihood of ruptures or blockages caused by frozen fluids that could otherwise lead to costly pipe and building damage.
Condensation Control
Pipes with fluids frequently running through them can develop condensation. When left unchecked, this can cause pipes to rust, corrode, or develop mold. Pipe insulation forms a barrier that stops condensation and moisture build-up to ensure longer-lasting piping systems and safer working environments.
Noise Control
Piping systems can generate a lot of noise and their conductive nature makes them especially adept at carrying sound from one place to another. Industrial pipe insulation provides a layer of soundproofing for facilities requiring noise control. The insulation’s noise-dampening capabilities prevent acoustic vibrations from traveling from the pipe to external areas.
Personnel Protection & Safety
Industrial pipe insulation lowers the surface temperature of piping and other equipment to a safer level. This reduces the likelihood of burns and other injuries to personnel. Additionally, because insulation provides noise control and prevents mold accumulation, it ensures more comfortable, healthy working conditions.
Types of Pipe Insulation Products From Firwin
At Firwin, we offer a range of custom industrial pipe insulation solutions to meet your specific needs. Our pipe insulation products include:
Firwin is a leading manufacturer of removable and reusable insulation blankets in a wide range of designs and configurations. For example, our ThermoWrap removable insulation blankets are used on valves, flanges, process piping, and other components to protect personnel from hot pipes and heat buildup.
Our removable insulation blankets can be used to insulate industrial process piping and exhaust piping in both indoor and outdoor environments. Permanent insulators have to leave certain areas open for maintenance and inspection accessibility, which can become a major source of energy loss. Our removable insulation blankets, on the other hand, cover all parts of hot and cold piping on process and steam lines to ensure optimal heat containment.
Our silicone-coated fiberglass sleeves and tapes are resistant to librating oils, fuels, and hydraulic fluids. They can be used in hosing and piping to insulate against energy loss and protect employees from burns.
T-Wrap™ combines the flexibility of tape with the benefits of removable insulation blankets. This product is especially well-suited for insulating small tubing and piping.
We also offer various other industrial insulation products. View our catalog here.
Contact Our Experts for Custom Industrial Pipe Insulation Solutions
Industrial pipe insulation offers numerous benefits, including enhanced energy efficiency, improved workplace safety, and more. At Firwin Corporation, we’re a leading manufacturer of custom insulation products for numerous industrial applications. As an ISO 9001:2015 and UL2200 certified company, Firwin is dedicated to providing superior-quality insulation solutions that meet your unique needs.
Posted by lfeltmann@thomasnet.com on | Comments Off on 5 Key Benefits of Removable Insulation Blankets
Removable insulation blankets or jackets are thermal insulating layers that, when attached to machinery and other mechanical components, can manage equipment temperature, optimize operational efficiency, and even enhance safety in the workplace. Unlike standard permanent or hard coat insulation, these blankets ensure that a covered machine or component is still accessible for maintenance. Learn more about the five key benefits of removable insulation blankets and how they compare to permanent varieties.
Key Benefits of Removable Insulation Blankets
Multi-layer insulation blankets of materials like fiberglass and CMS wool serve as moisture protection and heat insulation for equipment like pipes, valves, pumps, exhaust systems, engine components, and much more. Removable thermal insulation jackets offer various benefits to their applications.
Enhance Workplace Safety
While it’s impossible to eliminate all safety hazards from a workplace, you can minimize the risk of common injuries by using insulation covers. Removable insulation covers provide a barrier between your employees and hot equipment, helping to ensure that they won’t get burned when they accidentally make contact. These blankets also reduce ambient temperatures by managing heat generation and, as these covers are fire-resistant, they limit the risk of fire in your facility.
Extend the Life-Span of Insulated Components
Removable insulation blankets can be helpful in protecting outdoor components from extreme temperatures and the elements. If you have pipes with small diameters that run outdoors, for example, they are particularly prone to freezing. A removable insulating blanket will help safeguard against fluctuating temperatures and resulting burst pipes. Apart from external conditions, condensation can also gather on a pipe’s surface, a condition known as pipe sweating. Removable insulation blankets can protect against resulting rust and corrosion that would otherwise occur to extend the life span of machinery while still keeping its parts accessible for maintenance.
Facilitate Routine Maintenance
Removable insulation blankets make it simpler to identify potential equipment problems before they become a bigger issue that might otherwise lead to expensive downtime for your operation. You can easily conduct periodic and efficient equipment inspections and carry out any necessary maintenance.
Install With Ease
Installing a removable insulation blanket is an easy process as they simply wrap around the desired component to provide that thermal insulation. They typically utilize lacing wire fastenings for greater versatility, but other options include straps, snaps, Velcro, and springs.
Generate Cost Savings in Reduced Energy Consumption
When heat escapes through a pipe or at the heat source itself, it can result in a lot of lost energy and require greater energy consumption to make up for it. A removable insulation blanket traps such heat from escaping, thereby resulting in significant cost savings while ensuring that companies are compliant with energy-efficient regulations.
Removable Insulation Blanket vs. Permanent Insulation: Which Should You Use?
The right choice between removable and permanent insulation depends on your application. Yourdurability requirements, space constraints, a necessity for removability, and budget will ultimately be the deciding factors. When comparing the two, consider the following:
Resistance to wear. Removable blankets may be tough, but they are typically not as impervious to damage as permanent insulation. Permanent insulation may be better suited to applications involving sharp objects to prevent tears.
Space limitations. Permanent insulation such as Firwin’s Hard Coat insulation is applied directly to a component and conforms tightly to the part surface, making it ideal for applications with space constraints.
Removability. For applications where periodic maintenance is beneficial, removable blankets are the obvious choice. They are even capable of reuse.
Budget. With higher performance comes higher costs. High-performance permanent insulation such as Firwin’s Hard Coating is more expensive than the removable option for its durability.
Lead times. Depending on the company, both permanent and removable insulation blankets typically have turn times of approximately two to three weeks. However, keep in mind that components for hard coat insulation need to be first shipped to the factory, where the insulation is applied, and then the insulated component is shipped back to the customer. This can result in additional delays and expenses.
Firwin: Your Removable Insulation Blanket Experts
Removable insulation blankets are critical additions for piping and machinery in various industrial processes, and Firwin Corporation is here to help. Whether you need a removable jacket or a permanent Firwin HC™ Hard Coat, you can count on us for high-performance products that meet your needs. We ensure high-quality blankets through our commitment to continuous process and production improvement, with our team embracing technological advancements to incorporate innovation into our product line.
Here at Firwin, we do our best to reply to all inquiries within a 24-hour period to best serve you with superior customer service. If you have any questions about our products, contact us today, and we will help you make the right insulation choice for your project.
Posted by Firwin on | Comments Off on Industrial Furnace Insulation Blankets
Insulation is an extremely important consideration for the safe and efficient use of industrial furnaces. Without it, the extreme heat dissipates into the surrounding area, significantly increasing the risk of burns and other injuries. An insulation blanket is a simple, effective, and affordable solution to this problem, and its wide range of benefits are matched by its versatility. Insulation blankets can be made of various types of material, and modern insulation blankets are designed with three layers that provide a combination of different functions to increase protection and efficiency in several ways.
The Importance of Furnace Insulation
The extremely high operating temperatures of industrial furnaces necessitate furnace insulation. Doing so improves its efficiency and boosts safety in the surrounding area. Operators of industrial furnaces in particular need every safety measure possible in place to reduce the risk of burns, and insulation blankets are an effective, reliable, and simple solution.
An insulation blanket covers the outside of a furnace and ductwork, is easily removable, and long-lasting. It can be customized to fit a variety of furnaces and related equipment and constructed with other considerations in mind depending on the nature of the work environment.
Furnace Insulation Materials
There are three main components of a reliable and high-quality insulation blanket:
Protective cover: Also known as the “cold face,” a protective cover shields the insulation from the outer environment and keeps the inner insulation material from escaping. The best protective cover is necessary for the longevity of the blanket and can be made with other considerations in mind (weather-proofing, tear resistance, etc.).
Insulation media: The actual insulation is typically achieved by a 1″ thick sheet of fiberglass, but it can vary in thickness from as thin as .5″ to 4″. The thickness of the insulation medium depends on the level of heat reduction required and the size limitations of the area in which the furnace equipment is located.
Inner liner: Also known as the “hot face,” the inner liner acts as a barrier between the insulation material and the furnace and keeps the blanket in place. It’s most commonly made of steel mesh, but different fabrics or metal foil can also be used.
The exact composition of an insulation blanket depends on its intended application, the level of heat, proximity to other equipment, and other end-use considerations. They are easily wrapped around the part using lacing wire, which is usually preferred for its versatility. Other options for securing the insulation blanket include:
Snaps
Straps
Springs
Velcro
These options have additional benefits such as ease of removal, elasticity, and the ability to fit the blanket around components in adaptive ways.
Benefits of Temperature Insulation
High-temperature furnace insulation vastly improves the efficiency and safety of furnaces. Beyond a furnace’s basic functioning, insulation is one of the most important factors for ensuring that it operates as intended. It not only creates a safer environment while keeping energy costs lower, but it also keeps the furnace running longer because it reduces unnecessary stress on the equipment.
As the chamber heats up, the heat can escape through uninsulated areas on the outer surfaces of the furnace. This renders the furnace’s exterior needlessly hot and dangerous and increases the energy needed for the interior of the furnace to reach the set temperature. Insulation blankets drastically reduce this danger and wasted energy, allowing the furnace to function at lower levels to achieve the desired heating capabilities.
Insulation Blankets from Firwin
Although very simple in principle, the most effective and safe insulation blankets are the result of impeccable design and manufacturing. Firwin takes into account many factors most other insulation blanket manufacturers may overlook, such as:
UV light and weather protection for outdoor uses
Ability to withstand chemicals and other substances
Levels of flame retardance
Durability in harsh environments
Sound absorption
Desired exterior or “touch” temperature
Heat retention and exhaust points
High degrees of customization
For these reasons and more, Firwin’s industrial furnace insulation wraps are among the most maintenance-free product on the market for furnace insulation needs. Contact us today with any questions, custom orders, or to request a quote.
Posted by Firwin on | Comments Off on Removable Insulation Blankets ‘Take Charge’
In many of today’s diesel and gas engines, you’ll find two ‘chargers’ that are designed to increase engine efficiency. One runs hot, the other cold, and both use removable insulation blankets. The two ‘chargers’ that we are referring to are turbochargers and charge air coolers.
Turbochargers
The purpose of a turbocharger (commonly referred to as turbo) is to increase the mass of air entering the engine to create more power. Turbochargers make this possible by using an engine’s exhaust gas flow to power a turbine with drives a compressor, which in turn increases the air flow into the engine’s cylinders. The more air present in the engine’s cylinders, the greater the air / fuel mix, and the the greater the resulting horsepower.
Since they use the engine’s own exhaust gas to drive the turbine located inside the turbo’s housing, turbochargers run hot. Combine this with the fact that the internal turbine can spin at speeds in excess of 200,000 rpm, and you have the potential for even more heat. And heat is what you want, as the greater the heat and resultant pressure of the exhaust, the faster the turbine will spin, and the more air gets pushed to the engine’s cylinders by the compressor.
This heat does have ramifications, however, for safety and engine performance. An exposed hot turbocharger can pose a danger to personnel, as well as adversely affecting heat sensitive components that are nearby. As well, increased heat can increase stress on the piston, piston rings, cylinder liner, and cylinder head of the engine.
While the air that leaves the compressor section of the turbo is not as hot as the exhaust, (as the compressor is drawing in ambient air and not exhaust air), the act of compression does causes the temperature of the air to increase (for a typical diesel engine, to around the 200°C / 400°F mark). Since hot air is not as dense as cooler air, less air can be pushed into the engine cylinders, which in turns limits the effectiveness of the turbocharger. This is where Charge Air Coolers come into play.
Charge Air Coolers
The job of the ‘Charge Air Cooler’ also known as an ‘intercooler’ or ‘aftercooler’ is to take the compressed air and cool it down before it enters the engine. The resultant cooler air is more dense, and thus more air can be packed into the engine cylinders than could have been achieved with the hot air coming out of the turbo compressor.
Removable Insulation Blankets ‐ How They Help
Firwin Turbocharger Cover
For turbochargers, a properly designed removable insulation blanket fitted on top of the turbo ‘hot side’, helps to keep the hot side of the turbo hot, and the cool side cool. This allows the turbo to function more efficiently. Nearby components that might be affected by the extremely hot ambient temperatures generated by an exposed turbocharger are also protected. Finally, there is the aspect of personnel safety – a turbocharger with a removable insulation blanket will protect people from accidentally burning themselves on an otherwise hot engine component.
CAT C27 / C32 Charge Air System with insulation blankets. Note the large cooler system (large black fan) in the background.
For charge air coolers, removable insulation blankets are primarily found on the piping that leads from the turbo/compressor into the cooler/radiator. The cooler might be a bit of a distance from the turbo, and the piping, which can be in excess of 400°F for diesel applications (gas would be higher) can pose a hazard to personnel if not properly insulated. Covering these pipes with removable insulation blankets brings the outside touch temperature down to safe levels.
For more information on how Firwin can help you with your engine insulation needs, please visit our website , or call us at 1 877 347 9467.
Posted by Firwin on | Comments Off on Velcro Fasteners – What You Need to Know
Among the fastening systems we offer for our removable insulation blankets is Velcro. An excellent and easy to use fastener, Velcro is often used in applications which require a simple and quick fastening method. Velcro fastening does, however, come with some limitations, which users need to be aware of in order for it to function as intended.
Background – How It Works
Velcro is actually the trade name for what is generically known as ‘Hook and Loop’ fastening. The hook‐and‐loop fastener was conceived in 1941 by Swiss engineer George de Mestral who lived in Commugny, Switzerland. The idea came to him one day after returning from a hunting trip with his dog in the Alps. He took a close look at the burrs (seeds) of burdock that kept sticking to his clothes and his dog’s fur. He examined them under a microscope, and noted their hundreds of “hooks” that caught on anything with a loop, such as clothing, animal fur, or hair. He saw the possibility of binding two materials reversibly in a simple fashion if he could figure out how to duplicate the hooks and loops. It took de Mestral around 10 years to perfect the process, and Velcro was born.
Velcro Fastening on Removable Insulation Blankets
Velcro fastening systems are supplied on rolls of paired woven tapes. The materials used in making these woven tapes are typically one or more of nylon, polyester, and Nomex (a flame‐resistant meta‐aramid material developed in the early 1960s by DuPont). Each paired tape has a loop tape, with loops made from the same fiber as the woven tape, and a hook tape. The hook tape, regardless of what material the woven tape is made from, typically has nylon or polyester hooks. For example, when ordering a Nomex Velcro, even though the base tape and loops are made with Nomex, the hooks will still be made with Nylon or Polyester.
Velcro can either be used as the prime fastening system where the Velcro keeps the blanket closed, or it can be used as a secondary or complementary fastener, as in the case of ‘D rings’, where the ‘D rings’ fasten the blanket and the Velcro is only used to secure the ‘D ring’ strap in place.
Why Velcro Fastening Sometime Becomes Ineffective
Velcro tapes are temperature rated when ‘closed’ (i.e. when hook and loop are fastened). In fact clothing manufacturers always require the Velcro tape to be closed before ironing/pressing garments ‐ and which is why you should also fasten any Velcro garments before putting them in the washer / dryer! So a Nomex base Velcro with nylon or polyester hooks will have a slightly higher temperature rating (350°F / 177°C) than a polyester‐based Velcro (280°F / 138°C), as the Nomex provides some additional heat protection for the nylon / Straps with Velcro &”D” Ring Fastening System polyester hooks when the tape is in the closed state. For temperatures beyond 350°F / 177°C, stainless steel hooks are available. Depending on the base tape used, stainless steel hooked Velcro tape can be used in applications as high as 450°F / 232°C for Nomex‐based tape, to as high as 800° F / 426° C for Velcro tapes constructed completely from 300 series stainless steel. The higher one goes on the temperature scale, the more expensive the Velcro tape becomes, especially the stainless steel versions. Because of this price premium, Velcro fastening is most commonly found on removable insulation blankets used in temperature ranges which can support nylon or polyester hooks.
As mentioned, both Nylon and Polyester have a temperature tolerance up to 280°F / 138°C , beyond which they tend to break down or melt if brought into contact with a heated surface. In practice, manufacturers like to err on the side of caution, and typically call for a temperature limit of 200°F / 93°C. This means that as long as the outside temperature of the insulation blanket (the ‘cold face’) is below this temperature limit, Nylon and Polyester Velcro should function properly. For example, for a pipe of 3” or 4” diameter, with a room temperature ambient, a typical 1” thick insulation blanket would allow for an internal temperature of up to 800° F / 426° C before the outside face temperature went beyond 200°F / 93°C.
The ‘weak point’ on a Velcro fastener is typically the hooks since they are so fine. Once the hooks are damaged from contact with high temperatures the fastening tape becomes ineffective. This is the most common reason for breakdown of Velcro tapes. Even the accidental brushing of the hook tape against a hot surface is sufficient to damage the hooks. Another common cause of Velcro tape breakdown is when the loops and hooks get clogged up with dust of grime.
Are Velcro Fastened Removable Insulation Blankets Right For You?
As mentioned above, the main benefit of Velcro fastening is the ease in which an insulation blanket can be installed and removed. However, there are situations where Velcro may not be the recommended fastening method. “For low temperature applications, Velcro can be an excellent fastening method”, notes Brett Herman, Firwin’s Vice President of Sales and Customer Service. “This is especially true if the customer requires a fastening method that is easy to install and / or remove.”
“However, there are some drawbacks that customers need to be aware of. Firstly, most Velcro come with polyester or nylon hooks, and if these are exposed to heat approaching 280°F, the hooks can become damaged and the Velcro fastener will no longer be effective. While stainless steel Velcro hooks are an option, they are quite expensive, and even they are limited to 800° F / 426° C – so if the application is very high temperature, these hooks also pose the risk of getting damaged through accidental contact.”
“Secondly, when compared to the ‘standard method’ of fastening blankets via stainless steel lacing wire and rivets, Velcro has an added cost component, mainly from the increased labor needed to produce a Velcro blanket. So for customers looking for a ‘lowest cost’ solution, and for whom ease of installation and removal is not so crucial, an alternative fastening method would be better suited”, added Brett.
Proper Care of Velcro Fastened Removable Insulation Blankets
The recommended use of Velcro when used on insulation blankets, for hot Removable Insulation Blanket with lacing wire & rivet fastening Other blanket fastening methods: Snaps, Straps, Springs equipment and heater bands, is to install and remove blankets when the machine or surface is cold.
Firwin blankets are designed to ensure that Velcro fastenings with nylon / polyester hooks are mounted on the cold side of the blanket insulated from the hot surface by a suitable insulation layer. To be safe, we like to add a buffer to the temperature limit, and call for a temperature below 200⁰F [93 ⁰C] to make sure that the hooks will not be damaged. Care should be taken at all times not to allow the hook side of the blanket to brush up against such a hot surface.
As well, blankets should not be kept in grimy areas, or any place where dirt or molten plastics can get into the Velcro.
Posted by Firwin on | Comments Off on Blanket Installation Tips
Blanket Installation Tips
Insulation blankets help protect personnel by containing potentially dangerous temperatures inside the affected component so that the ambient environment remains stable and safe. Insulation blankets can also control temperatures during mechanical operations to keep temperature fluctuations from damaging the surrounding equipment. Although most insulation blankets are designed to prevent heat from transferring outside of a hot component, they can also be used to insulate cold areas or keep them from freezing.
Firwin’s insulation blankets are removable so workers can access the equipment beneath them for maintenance and repairs. But it’s critical to properly reinstall the blanket after servicing to ensure there aren’t any gaps in coverage. Even minor rifts can leak heat into the surrounding area, potentially decreasing the overall operational efficiency and creating a hazard to nearby workers.
As a premier provider of industrial insulation solutions for customers in a range of industries and applications, Firwin has the knowledge and expertise to insulate your equipment and make your workplace safer. In the passage below, our seasoned experts share tips on how to ensure your removable insulation blanket is installed correctly.
Get the Right Tools
To install an insulation blanket, you’ll need the following tools:
Safety Gear
If the equipment is hot or continuously operating, workers must have the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to defend against surface heat, ambient heat, steam, liquids, chemicals, and any other unsafe conditions that may arise. The installer should wear protective gloves while handling the cable lacing.
Stainless Steel Lacing Wire
Firwin’s removable industrial blankets typically use stainless steel lacing wire to wrap the blankets around the equipment and fasten the edges to the rivets on the blanket. The wire offers a reliable and durable bond that is temperature-resistant and long-lasting, even in extreme conditions. Other fastening methods are also available.
Pliers or Side Cutters
The installation technician will likely use a set of pliers or side cutters to twist and manipulate the lacing wire and fasten the blanket to the equipment. They may need to cut the wire to size once it has been laced.
Installation Guide
Before you begin your installation, double-check that your equipment matches with the corresponding label on your blanket. Firwin’s insulation blankets come in a broad range of sizes, configurations, and designs that are specially engineered to provide optimal coverage for corresponding pieces of standard equipment. Placing the wrong blanket on a component will not offer the coverage you need and could result in unsafe gaps or overlap that reduces the efficacy of your insulation.
Have a Plan or Template
Blanket installation processes vary depending on the equipment configuration and facility. Before you begin, decide where each blanket will go and the order in which you plan to install them. Some blankets are designed to go above or below others, so you need to put a detailed installation plan in place to avoid errors or unnecessary delays.
If your system includes unions or elbows, note that both union and elbow blankets should be installed after the standard pipe insulation blankets have already been fastened.
Ensure Full Coverage
Here are some additional tips to ensure your insulation blankets are installed with optimal coverage:
Overlap Edges
Blanket flaps should overlay at the seams without creating any gaps or spaces. Even small gaps can allow heat transfer, thereby reducing the efficiency of your system.
Crisscross Wiring
Lace the wire around each rivet across the blanket’s seam in a crisscross pattern. Then trim and bend the excess wire to ensure that it stays in place and won’t catch on other pieces of fabric or equipment. Make sure to secure the wire on the union and elbow blankets to the rivets of the primary insulation blanket for optimal coverage and stability.
Choose Firwin for Superior Insulation Solutions
At Firwin, we are proud to offer an extensive range of removable and permanent insulation solutions for industrial equipment. Our state-of-the-art facilities allow us to custom-tailor solutions to meet the needs of any application. To learn more about our quality insulation products and services, or if you need help installing equipment, contact the experts at Firwin today!
Posted by Firwin on | Comments Off on Engine Library
At Firwin, we pride ourselves on our extensive engine insulation knowledge base. With over 30 years in the industry, we have amassed a comprehensive library of engine projects, with insulation specifications and requirements for every engine we have experienced.
Firwin’s engine library features templated insulation blanket designs, allowing for more efficient fabrication of products for these engines and facilitating an especially quick turnaround.
Why Engines Require Insulation
To ensure optimal engine operation and reduce heat in the surrounding area, engines and exhaust systems require appropriate insulation. Adequate insulation offers the following benefits:
Heat containment. Insulation keeps the high heat generated by an engine confined around the engine and exhaust system. By maintaining the heat in the engine and exhasut system, equipment can function at optimal capacity, thereby reducing emissions.
Personnel protection and safety. Engine insulation protects employees from exposure to the extreme heat on engine surfaces and within the working environment. The amount of heat generated by an engine can cause extreme harm to individuals, resulting in burns, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Insulation also reduces noise levels, thereby protecting the hearing of workers in the vicinity.
Component shielding. In addition to protecting employees from heat, an insulated engine also protects components and sensitive equipment around the engine from heat damage.
Benefits of Firwin’s Engine Library
Firwin’s extensive engine library represents the culmination of three decades of hands-on experience in finding insulation solutions for a wide array of engine and exhaust systems and components. This familiarity with the unique components of each system has a number of benefits:
Quick Quote Turnaround Times
Given our broad range of experience with numerous engine models, we have created an extensive catalog of template designs for a wide variety of engines and components. What this means to our customers is that when they come to us with an engine that needs insulation, more often than not we already have an existing blanket kit. This means less legwork for our customers (they do not need to go to the site and take engine and exhaust measurements) and a quick quote turnaround, as all the insulation blanket pricing is already in our system.
In addition, we consistently update our insulation templates as we acquire new information, so just because a make and model does not appear on our site does not necessarily mean we do not have an existing pattern for it.
Properly Designed Blankets
Being familiar with the intricacies of an engine, and having already gone through the process of designing and fitting blankets for an engine, the resulting product is a blanket that will precisely fit your particular engine and exhaust.
Firwin Customization
If we do not have a template for your particular engine model or component, not to worry. As a full-service custom fabricator of insulation solutions, Firwin’s capabilities include designing and building custom insulation solutions for any engine and exhaust component variation. We have measuring templates that make the job of measuring easy, and we show you exactly what dimensions we require.
Examples of Engine Models in the Library
Our comprehensive engine library includes templates for insulation solutions developed over the past 30 years, catering to all manner of engine styles and components. Our library contains, but is not limited to, templates for the following:
Caterpillar Engine Insulation
Cummins Engine Insulation
Dawoo Engine Insulation
Daimler Chrysler Engine Insulation
Detroit Diesel Engine Insulation
Deutz Engine Insulation
EMD Insulation
Ford Engine Insulation
GM Engine Insulation
John Deere Engine Insulation
Lombardini Engine Insulation
Mercedes Engine Insulation
Mitsubishi Engine Insulation
Nissan Engine Insulation
Volvo Engine Insulation
Yanmar Engine Insulation
As an example of our blanket kit templates, our CAT C-18 (ACERT) kit for Caterpillar engine model C-18 includes a manifold fore, manifold aft, two turbos, and a y collector.
For more information on the vast array of engine insulation options we provide, feel free to browse Firwin’s Engine Library yourself!
Posted by Firwin on | Comments Off on R-Value of Insulation: Explore Our eBook
The first thought that most people have when they think of insulation is the puffy pink fiberglass typically used in the construction industry to provide insulation inside walls and attics. In applications of this type, fiberglass insulation is rated by the manufacturer with an R-value according to the material’s resistance to conductive heat flow.
What Is R-Value?
The R-value is a measure of a material’s thermal resistance. It is defined as “the quantity determined by the temperature difference, at steady state, between two defined surfaces of a material of construction that induces a unit heat flow through a unit area.” This quantity of thermal resistance, the material’s R-value, is an indicator of a material’s ability to resist heat loss and serves as a standard measure of the insulation’s effectiveness.
The R-value of a particular insulation type is dependent on several factors. Thermal resistance is determined by the material used and its thickness and density. It is essential to understand R-values because it is a crucial piece of the puzzle when determining what type of insulation materials will work best for specific applications.
When R-Value Is Important
R-value is a relative number, which means that the more effective a type of insulation is, the higher the R-value rating. The R-value of insulation is measured by determining the material’s thermal resistance at a given temperature.
In the home and building industry, the insulation R-value is usually calculated at 75°F or 24°C. However, when it comes to insulating engines, exhaust systems, and other industrial applications, temperatures can vary greatly and get extremely high. In these types of conditions, R-values become less meaningful because the value fluctuates with temperature. The R-value of an insulator at 500°F will differ significantly from its R-value at 750°F.
Additional Variables That Impact R-Value
When considering the effectiveness of insulation material, R-value is just one of many variables that can affect insulation performance. You should also account for the insulation’s environment and how it will affect its performance.
Environmental conditions that could impact the R-value and performance of insulation material include:
Exposure to Elements Like Moisture
Insulation will sometimes absorb condensation or moisture in humid conditions, which can drastically reduce the material’s R-value.
Resistance to Compression
Increased insulation thickness typically increases the R-value proportionally. However, with loose-fill insulation, compression of the insulation under its own weight causes the R-value to not change proportionately with thickness.
Temperature Rating
For insulation to perform as required for the application, the material must be rated for the proper temperature.
Vibration Resistance
Vibrations from machinery and mechanical equipment can weaken some types of insulation, making it crucial to choose the right type for your application.
Insulation Thickness & Density
The R-value of a material is dependent on the type of insulation, its thickness, and its density. When determining the R-value of insulation that consists of more than one layer, the values of each layer are added together.
Posted by Firwin on | Comments Off on Does Insulation Cause Corrosion?
We are commonly asked this question: Does insulation cause corrosion? Given the many expenses already involved in plant maintenance, it makes sense to carefully consider factors that might contribute to corrosion—including improperly maintained insulation.
Corrosion under insulation (CUI) is a well-documented problem in processing plants, occurring when moisture builds up underneath the surface of an insulating sleeve. Depending on the piping and insulation material types and the moisture source, substrates underneath insulation maybe vulnerable to multiple corrosion types, such as:
Galvanic corrosion
Acidic corrosion
Alkaline corrosion
Chloride corrosion
All of these processes have the potential to severely damage pipes or containers, leading to holes and leaks that can shut down segments of a facility—or, in the worst case scenario, the entire facility.
Unfortunately, no combination of metal and insulation is completely immune to CUI, so vigilant maintenance is critical to prevent these outcomes. Still, certain solutions can minimize the risk, including those that can be easily removed and replaced for routine assessment and repair. Firwin’s removable blanket insulation offers one example of a configuration that minimizes CUI risk without sacrificing the efficacy of the system.
The Problem: Causes and Consequences of CUI
Part of the difficulty in preventing CUI is that it can occur under so many conditions. Factors that may contribute to heightened risk, include:
A constant temperature above freezing but below boiling, which is the perfect environment for condensation to form.
Subpar insulation that contains corrosive compounds or that degrades quickly.
Insulation placed improperly near sources of water.
The biggest risk factor for CUI, however, is the presence of certain chemicals that react with the metal’s surface to erode its structure. This can take several forms, depending on the specific compounds present. For example:
Galvanic corrosion is common when the insulation becomes moist in the presence of either an electrolyte or a salt. When this happens, a current can flow between the soaked insulation and the metal surface, inducing serious surface damage.
The presence of strongly basic or acidic substances can also be problematic. When granular insulations absorb both water and an alkali or acid, the chemicals can remain on the insulated metal’s surface even as the water evaporates, leading to alkaline or acidic corrosion.
Chloride from industrial processes or natural sources is particularly harmful to stainless steel surfaces, especially when it becomes imbued in a wet insulating sleeve. Chemical corrosion can occur even when the processing equipment itself does not contain harsh chemicals—chloride, for instance, can come from rainwater, a common source of CUI.
While different factors are responsible for each of these categories of CUI, all corrosive damage may be worsened by rigid or permanent insulation. Ideally, technicians should be able to regularly remove insulation to inspect the underlying metal for signs of wear. Failure to do so allows chemical damage to compound until the vessel is irreparable.
Additionally, a permanently insulated fixture might accumulate corrosive damage more quickly as buildup can’t easily be cleaned during routine maintenance. These challenges are especially pronounced in process facilities that routinely handle high quantities of potentially corrosive chemicals, or in piping that experiences routine exposure to the elements.
The Solution to CUI
The primary solution to CUI is to replace rigid or permanent insulation with a removable solution. In doing so, it becomes much easier to monitor the state of process piping without causing additional damage to the surface.
The benefits of this investment are substantial. Removable insulation not only makes routine inspections and maintenance easier, but it also facilitates easier repair. Permanent insulation is difficult to replace without damaging the pipe, but removable covers can easily be taken off of individual segments of machinery or process piping when the exterior begins to breakdown. This advantage can add up to substantial savings over the lifetime of your equipment.
Firwin Insulation Solutions
All of Firwin’s removable insulation covers are engineered for easy access without sacrificing performance. Our covers cling closely to the piping or vessel for a snug fit that repels moisture. Lower quality removable blankets lack this excellent fit, which can sometimes hasten corrosion (rather than preventing it) by allowing additional avenues for moisture to enter.
We produce removable insulation solutions to fit various engine parts and piping systems, including diesel engines that generate enough heat to create a higher risk of CUI. Our solutions not only contain and manage this heat, but do so while mitigating the risk of corrosion.
To learn more about our completely customizable options for insulation and corrosion protection, get in touch with Firwin’s team today.
Posted by Firwin on | Comments Off on What to Know About Boiler Insulation
According to the guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Energy, any surfaces with temperatures above 120°F should always be insulated. This includes all parts of boilers, such as doors, steam drum covers, and piping. While frequently overlooked, boiler pipe insulation is essential; proper boiler insulation leads to energy conservation, employee safety, and increased efficiency in all types of operations.
The Benefits of Boiler Pipe Insulation
Significant heat loss can cause a number of issues, including loss of money and hazardous work environments. Installing heating pipe insulation is an excellent way to prevent these problems and take advantage of a wide variety of benefits.
Cost Savings
Loss of heat means loss of energy, which leads to higher expenses. If boiler pipes are left exposed as they carry heated fluid, more energy is needed to keep the boiler functioning at the optimal level. Boiler pipe insulation will prevent the loss of thermal energy and maintain low energy costs.
Increased Efficiency
When you lose significant amounts of heat, the system needs to work harder to reach high temperatures and keep fluids heated. By insulating boiler pipes, you ensure your boiler can heat up more easily and rapidly. This saves both time and money.
Energy Savings
Insulated boiler pipes can raise hot water temperatures by 2° F to 4° F higher than uninsulated pipes. In the long term, this can lead to 3-4% energy savings every year. If you’re interested in learning exactly how much money you might be losing due to lack of insulation, there’s now a way for you to find out: the National Mechanical Insulation Committee has developed a calculator that lets you determine potential energy savings from both bare and insulated pipes, as well as flat surfaces.
Safety
Proper insulation creates a safer work environment for you and your employees. When boiler pipes are left uninsulated, they become extremely hot. Employees working near these structures are then at risk for serious burns and other injuries if they come into contact with the heated component. With proper insulation, you will protect your employees from injury and prevent costly lawsuits.
Material Considerations
When deciding to install boiler pipe insulation, it is vital to consider the different types available. There are two main options from which to choose: removable or permanent. Here are some details about each one’s specific functions and benefits to help you pick the best option for your needs.
Removable Insulation
Removable insulation is incredibly flexible, making it ideal for situations where you frequently need to inspect or maintain your system. It is quick and easy to install and can be removed whenever you need access to your component. This makes it a convenient way to effectively reduce your heat and energy loss without committing to a permanent fixture.
Permanent insulation is common in situations where consistent access to the system is not needed. This type of insulation is durable and sturdy, permanently enclosing the component being insulated. It is ideal for small spaces that require long-term insulation but do not need to be frequently accessed.
Additional Factors
There are a variety of factors that go into choosing the appropriate material for your insulation :
The maximum temperatures reached by the insulated component
Whether the component is indoors or outdoors
Potential exposure to the elements
Ambient temperatures
Desired “touch temperature” of the component’s outer surface
Safety requirements
Desired system heat retention
Space limitations
Necessity and frequency of insulation removal
Regulatory requirements
Aesthetic requirements
Contact Firwin for Boiler Pipe Insulation
At Firwin, we manufacture a wide range of insulation products for every need, from boiler pipe insulation to industrial applications. Since 1982, we have been creating high quality products to ensure the safety and peace of mind of our clients.
To learn more about our boiler pipe insulation, contact us today to speak to our experts and discuss your specific project.
Removable insulation blankets or jackets are thermal insulating layers that, when attached to machinery and other mechanical components, can manage equipment temperature, optimize operational efficiency, and even enhance safety in the workplace. Unlike standard permanent or hard coat insulation, these blankets ensure that a covered machine or component is still accessible for maintenance. Learn more about the five key benefits of 
Crisscross Wiring
Part of the difficulty in preventing CUI is that it can occur under so many conditions. Factors that may contribute to heightened risk, include:
The primary solution to CUI is to replace rigid or permanent insulation with a removable solution. In doing so, it becomes much easier to monitor the state of process piping without causing additional damage to the surface.
According to the guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Energy, any surfaces with temperatures above 120°F should always be insulated. This includes all parts of boilers, such as doors, steam drum covers, and piping. While frequently overlooked, boiler pipe insulation is essential; proper boiler insulation leads to energy conservation, employee safety, and increased efficiency in all types of operations.
Removable insulation is incredibly flexible, making it ideal for situations where you frequently need to inspect or maintain your system. It is quick and easy to install and can be removed whenever you need access to your component. This makes it a convenient way to effectively reduce your heat and energy loss without committing to a permanent fixture.