Elastomeric foam insulation was developed in the 1950s. The introduction of this and other polymer-based materials marked an important industry transition from the use of natural materials, such as cork, to the use of synthetic materials and chemicals. The popularity of elastomeric insulation grew quickly, primarily because it eliminated the need for any type of vapor barrier to prevent the transference of moisture. As availability of the insulation in various forms (including sheets, rolls, and tubes) increased, so did its popularity as an insulator, especially in refrigeration piping and ductwork applications. It was a user-friendly alternative to other materials because it could be bonded reliably to a variety of surfaces, it was easy to install, and its performance could not be compromised by tears or punctures.<\/p>\n
Demand for elastomeric foam has increased sharply over the last 2 decades due to heightened awareness of indoor air quality (IAQ). Since elastomeric foam does not contain formaldehyde or fibers, and has very low volatile organic compounds (VOCs), it has found wide acceptance among IAQ advocates. Because of its non-particulating, smooth surface and moisture resistance, elastomeric foam does not support the growth of mold—arguably one of the most devastating IAQ problems that facilities face.<\/p>\n
The Manufacturing Process<\/strong><\/p>\n The three main components used in the manufacturing of elastomeric closed cell foam insulation include the following:<\/p>\n These components are combined in a large mixer, typically in batches of 500 pounds or more. The mixture is then put through extruding equipment to form a particular profile or shape, typically either a round tube or a flat sheet. The profile is heated in an oven to a specific temperature, a process that causes the chemical foaming agent to change from a solid to a gas. When this occurs, thousands of tiny air pockets (cells)—all of which are connected—form. The profile is carefully cooled to ensure that these cells remain unbroken and intact, maintaining the material’s closed cell structure. It is then cut to size and packaged for shipment. <\/p>\n Elastomeric foams are made without the use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), or hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), making them suitable for the toughest environmental specifications.<\/p>\n Common Applications<\/strong><\/p>\n Closed cell elastomeric foam has been successfully used as pipe insulation since it was patented in 1954. Available in a wide range of shapes and thicknesses, elastomeric foam can be easily manipulated to fit snugly around all kinds of equipment, from residential piping to large commercial chillers. There are closed cell elastomeric foams that meet all of the code requirements, fire ratings, noise blocking, and efficiency standards for a variety of applications, including the following:<\/p>\n Recent Advances<\/strong><\/p>\n Over the years, there have been several advances in the production of elastomeric foam, making it suitable for particularly demanding applications. These advances include:<\/p>\n Perhaps one of the most exciting advances in elastomeric foam is the recent availability of insulation with a built-in antimicrobial additive. <\/p>\n Summary<\/strong><\/p>\n Moisture resistance remains closed cell elastomeric foam insulation’s strongest selling point when compared to other insulating materials. This also makes it great for below ambient applications, where condensation is an issue. Solid thermal performance, user-friendly installation, durability, and appealing IAQ characteristics make it suitable for the full range of HVAC, refrigeration, and plumbing applications. The product will not absorb moisture, or trap dirt or debris that supports the growth of mold. It is a fiber-free, formaldehyde-free, low-VOC material, so it is a good candidate for those facilities that are especially concerned with IAQ.<\/p>\n\n
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<\/a>Figure 1<\/b><\/p>\n