Phenolic pipe insulation is a high-quality type of pipe insulation that is available in various types and densities. Because of its closed-cell content, phenolic insulation is extremely dense and offers excellent fire and moisture resistance. It is suitable for moderate-to-high-temperature industrial applications. Additionally, it is CFC-free, making it an ideal choice for industrial applications.
Kooltherm FM phenolic foam pipe insulation
Kooltherm FM pipe insulation is an effective thermal barrier for pipes used in building services. It is available in a range of standard densities, and is faced with a protective aluminium foil vapour barrier jacket. This means that it is suitable for all types of pipework, including steel, copper, and multiplex.
Kooltherm pipe insulation is CFC and HCFC free. It is non-fibrous and features a closed cell structure. This means that it has a low Global Warming Potential and Ozone Depletion Potential. It is also BRE Green Guide A+ rated and meets BS EN ISO 14001: 2004 standards. This means that it is a responsible sourcing choice.
Kooltherm pipe insulation meets Eurofins Indoor Air comfort Gold certification, which certifies that it meets indoor air quality requirements. The Kooltherm pipe insulation system is also produced according to ISO 14001 requirements, so it is safe to use. Kooltherm pipe insulation has a low thermal conductivity, so you can use a higher density without compromising thermal performance.
Kooltherm FM phenolic foam has excellent fire resistance. The material’s dense cross-link structure makes it difficult to ignite and produces little or no smoke or flaming droplets. It is also FM Approved (per Approval Standard 4924) which means that it has been proven safe for use in designated applications.
Kingspan Kooltherm premium performance pipe insulation is the thinnest pipe insulation on the market, and one of the most efficient. It is available in a range of thicknesses and is compatible with various pipe types. The material’s low thermal conductivity makes it the most energy-efficient insulant available, which is particularly important for HVAC and building services.
BS 5970 for phenolic pipe insulation
Phenolic pipe insulation is a modern alternative to conventional pipe insulation. Designed and manufactured from CFC and HCFC-free materials, it offers outstanding thermal insulation performance, improved condensation control, and energy savings. It is recommended for use on pipes that are free of frost and foreign matter.
Phenolic pipe insulation blocks are suitable for internal pipework, such as LTHW to CHW pipework. They have low thermal conductivity, limiting heat loss and gain. They also offer good fire safety and can be used in low-temperature applications. However, phenolic pipe insulation blocks compare less favourably with mineral wool pipe insulation blocks.
To meet the requirements of BS 5970, phenolic pipe insulation blocks are installed between pipework and metal supports. The blocks are made from phenolic foam, which can prevent heat transfer through them and prevent condensation and corrosion. However, they are not suitable for use in below-ambient applications, as they can suffer from mould growth.
Cost of phenolic pipe insulation
The cost of phenolic pipe insulation varies greatly. The cost is determined by the amount of insulation needed for the pipe and its R-value. The higher the R-value, the more expensive the product. The R-value is particularly important in cold areas where pipes may freeze and burst. This can be prevented with high-quality phenolic pipe insulation.
This type of pipe insulation is lightweight and has excellent thermal insulating capabilities. It is also suitable for cryogenic and industrial applications. It is a great alternative to mineral fibre, because it is free of CFCs and HCFCs. It also offers excellent fire and moisture resistance. However, it is not as cheap as mineral fibre.
If you want to get an affordable option for pipe insulation, Kingspan’s Phenolic Kooltherm pipe insulation is an excellent choice. It comes in various thicknesses and can be rolled or fitted into a pipe. Its thin design allows it to fit a wide range of pipe sizes.
Phenolic pipe insulation is made from high-density phenolic foam, and it can also contain factory-applied vapor retarders. This type of pipe insulation is very low in thermal conductivity. It can be purchased in 36-inch lengths. It is highly durable and is highly resistant to fire.
Kingspan Kooltherm phenolic foam pipe insulation is suitable for all types of pipework, including steel, copper, multiplex, and plastic. Kingspan Kooltherm pipe insulation is manufactured using state-of-the-art machinery. It is available in various thicknesses and is easy to install.
Kingspan Kooltherm pipe insulation has excellent fire resistance, achieving a BL,s1,d0 fire rating. When exposed to fire, the foam pipe insulation forms a thick layer of carbonaceous material that retards the spread of flame. It is also resistant to moisture ingress, which makes it an ideal choice for pipe insulation.
Vapour barrier requirements
There are specific requirements for the installation of a vapor barrier around a pipe insulated with phenolic. The vapor barrier must be installed at all terminations of the pipe insulation, including valves, pumps, and fittings. In addition, the vapor barrier must be sealed at all longitudinal and circumferential joints.
When the vapor barrier is not properly installed, it can reduce the insulation performance in a construction project. Polymers that come into contact with phenolic insulation will transfer small molecules, which can affect the performance of the pipe insulation. Depending on the specific materials used in a construction project, various analytical techniques are available to detect and assess these interactions.
The VA HVAC Design Manual specifies that vapor barriers must be installed on all interior and exterior piping conveying fluids that are below ambient temperature. This includes ductwork and all plumbing exposed to outdoor weather. These requirements are applicable in buildings that contain a steam system and must use a vapor barrier in order to maintain a safe and healthy environment.
Vapour barriers must be sealed to prevent moisture from leaking from the pipe insulation. They must also be clean and dry. Any foreign materials must be removed, as well. In order to install a vapour barrier, it is necessary to follow certain procedures, including a thorough cleaning of the surface of the piping.
The phenolic pipe insulation has a range of application temperatures. Its insulation value is much higher than that of its wood and rubber alternatives. As a result, it is also more cost-effective than these alternatives.
Environmental impact of phenolic pipe insulation
While phenolic pipe insulation provides excellent thermal insulation, it can also lead to pinhole corrosion problems. This is especially common for steel and copper water pipes. The corrosion problems can occur in contact with phenolic pipe insulation, especially if the insulation is wet. This type of insulation is commonly used in both closed and open water systems.
The composition of phenolic pipe insulation contains up to 12.6% water. It also contains less than 4% of free phenol and less than 1% of formaldehyde. It has a viscosity ranging from 7000 to 14000 mPa*s at 25 degrees.
The thermal properties of phenolic pipe insulation are superior to other commonly used materials. The material can be used in much thinner layers than mineral fibre. This is an advantage for building owners, as it will require less material and boxing-ins. Phenolic insulation also offers the benefit of lower thermal conductivity, which means that pipes can be kept warm or cold more effectively than with other insulation materials.
To form phenolic pipe insulation, a mixture of phenolic resin and a foaming agent is pumped through a heated continuous foam laminator. The curing process results in cross-linking the phenolic resin. To produce the most efficient phenolic pipe insulation, controlling the exotherm is crucial. This helps to create a foam that is high in closed cell content and low in thermal conductivity. High water content, however, can act as a heat sink and increase the open cell content.