Insulation Finishes—This Month’s Topic: FABRICS
Product Characteristics of Weather Barriers,
Vapor Retarders, and Finishes
Fabrics are often
coated and used as insulation jacketing materials, particularly for
removable/reusable insulation covers. The fabrics are woven from a wide variety
of textile fibers including, but not limited to:
- Canvas
- Fiberglass (Type E)
- Amorphous silica fibers
- Ceramic fibers
- Aramid fibers
- Stainless steel
- Inconel
Coatings and laminate
membranes are usually applied to these fabrics to provide increased protection
and abrasion resistance. Common coatings include, but are not limited to:
- Acrylic
- Silicone
- Polytetrafluoroethylene
(PTFE) - Polychloroprene
- Vermiculite
The selection of the
fabric/coating combination for a particular application depends on the
temperature, abuse, chemical compatibility, and combustibility requirements.
Consult manufacturers of fabrics or removable/reusable covers for guidance.