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.
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