Posts by James George

Keeping insulation specifications up-to-date is a constant battle for mechanical engineers and manufacturers of the following factors: Changes to industry standards (i.e. ASTM) Changes with insulation manufacturers (mergers & acquisitions) Energy standard/code updates (i.e. ASHRAE, IECC®) Manufacturer product line additions & deletions Numerous other factors Mechanical insulation specifications for building mechanical and process systems, such…

The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) estimates that residential and commercial buildings in the United States account for 39% of total energy consumption (2019). Building mechanical systems, such as Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), refrigeration and plumbing systems are designed to deliver thermal comfort, healthy ventilation (indoor air quality – IAQ), and water to…

What is a Line Set? A line set is essentially a set of semi-flexible copper or aluminum tubes running from an air conditioner, heat pump or ductless mini-split unit located outdoors to the air handler in an attic. It consists of liquid (smaller) and suction (larger) tubes, wiring, and insulation. Do Line Sets Need to…

Overview of AC Pipe Insulation Air Conditioning (AC) pipe insulation plays a pivotal role in the efficiency and effectiveness of HVAC systems. Whether in residential or commercial settings, proper insulation of AC pipes is crucial for maintaining optimal temperatures, reducing energy costs, and ensuring a comfortable environment. In varying climates, from the intense heat of…

Insulation Adhesive Applications & Purposes Insulation adhesives are formulated for the installation of insulation over common mechanical equipment applications such as: VRF pipe insulation VRV pipe insulation Refrigeration pipe insulation Refrigerant pipe insulation Chilled water insulation HVAC refrigerant pipe insulation HVAC refrigerant line insulation AC return line insulation Plumbing pipe insulation Duct insulation Equipment insulation…

Commercial and industrial refrigeration systems (piping, fittings, and vessels) typically operate in the 35°F to -100°F range. These continuous service temperatures are typically below-ambient and under constant threat of condensation and vapor drive. Additionally, hot gas defrost cycles can reach intermittent spikes of 250°F. The consequences of inadequate refrigeration pipe insulation design include saturated insulation,…

Thermal insulation for commercial and industrial mechanical systems (piping, ducts & equipment), also known as mechanical insulation, serves to reduce heat transfer between one surface and another or a surface to the environment. The term and measurement for an insulation’s ability to reduce heat transfer is called thermal conductivity, also known as K value. Like…

Insulate means to prevent the passage of heat, electricity, or sound by surrounding the area of concern with a non-conductive material. Thermal insulation prevents the transfer of heat because it is not a good conductor (non-conductive). The purpose of insulation on pipes is to: Save energy Improve process performance Condensation control Freeze protection Personnel protection…