Inspecting AEROFLEX® EPDM™ Closed-Cell Elastomeric Foam Insulation
When conducting a post-installation inspection of AEROFLEX® EPDM™ mechanical insulation, it is critical not to physically damage the insulation. When mechanical impacts, such as fingers/hands, tools, and foot traffic break the skin of the insulation surface, the following unintended consequences can occur: R-value reduction Energy loss Condensation (dripping on objects below) Corrosion under insulation (CUI)…
Learn MoreAsbestos-Free
The purpose of this technical bulletin is to confirm that ALL Aeroflex USA AEROFLEX EPDM™ closed-cell elastomeric insulation and accessories (adhesives, coatings, tapes, insulated pipe supports, and talc) do not contain asbestos.
Learn MoreHeat Trace Systems with AEROFLEX® EPDM™ Closed Cell Elastomeric Insulation
With frigid arctic winter blasts on the increase in the United States, property damage caused by frozen pipes runs into the hundreds of millions of dollars. Property owners and property insurance owners are negatively impacted. In December 2022, cities such as Jackson, MS and Chaleston, SC experienced record-low temperatures, pipe bursts, and boil-water advisories. In…
Learn MoreSilicone-Free
Certain high-tech projects specify “silicone-free” products. The overarching concern to high-tech facility owners is that some silicones are known to particulate and contaminate critical manufacturing processes. Aeroflex USA’s AEROFLEX® brand of EPDM closed-cell elastomeric insulation is silicone-free, however the release liners that are a component of our pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSA) on our EPDM sheets, rolls,…
Learn MoreCalculating R-Value AEROFLEX® EPDM™ Closed-Cell Elastomeric Foam Insulation
WHY THERMAL INSULATION? Mechanical insulation effectively reduces heat exchange between a pipe, duct, or equipment and its environment. An insulation’s thermal efficiency is measured by thermal conductivity (K-value). The lower the K-value, the more thermally efficient insulation is. For example, a K-value of 0.245 is preferable to .280. WHAT IS R-VALUE? Thermal resistance to heat…
Learn MoreRubber Versus Foam Pipe Insulation: Which is better?
There are many types of commercial and industrial mechanical pipe insulation types to choose from. Each type offers advantages and disadvantages depending on the application. Determining owner project and performance requirements will simplify the product selection process while ensuring that the right pipe insulation is specified and installed to ensure long-term system performance. This post…
Learn MoreInsulation That Prevents Moisture and Mold on Pipes and Ducts
Molds belong to the fungi kingdom, and unlike plants, they lack chlorophyll and must survive by digesting plants and other organic materials. Molds generate tiny spores to reproduce, and these spores are ever-present in both indoor and outdoor air currents. When mold spores land on a damp or wet surface, they begin to grow and…
Learn MoreIs Closed Cell Foam Insulation Waterproof?
Closed cell foam insulation is known for its resistance to moisture, however is it waterproof? This post will explain the performance benefits of closed-cell insulation, specifically flexible elastomeric closed cell foam insulation, for insulating piping, ductwork, and equipment. The dictionary definition of waterproof is “impervious to water”. Impervious is defined as “not allowing entrance of…
Learn MoreCementitious Termination Points
Pipe insulation runs, both horizonal and vertical, often terminate into cementitious substrates such as masonry block walls and concrete floors. While this technical bulletin addresses proper adhesion and sealing of Aeroflex USA’s AEROFLEX EPDM™ closed-cell elastomeric insulation at termination points, it does not address, nor is intended to replace, proper firestopping standards, codes, and specifications.…
Learn MoreOpen Cell vs Closed Cell Foam Insulation
When making insulation material selections for building mechanical systems, such as HVAC, refrigeration, and plumbing, it is common to become quickly overwhelmed when researching the available options. This post will summarize the types of mechanical insulations followed by a focus on the differences between open cell and closed cell foam insulation. According to the National…
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