Removable thermal insulation; A practical and cost-effective solution

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When it comes to insulating pipes and conducts, pipe insulation is an essential technique to minimize heat loss and ensure better energy efficiency [1]. However, for some components that require regular maintenance, the use of a removable insulating blanket has many additional benefits. In this article, we will explore existing solutions and benefits to explain why using a removable insulating blanket can be a practical and cost-effective solution.

Existing solutions

There are currently a few solutions that vary in complexity, durability, and price. There is the insulating blanket of variable size but manufactured for several types of equipment and there is the custom-made solution. This article will explore the tailor-made solution.
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Figure 1: Custom insulation in cloth
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Figure 2: Removable custom insulation in PVC (closed)
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Figure 3: Removable custom insulation in PVC (open)

Protection against freezing or heat gain

One of the main advantages of insulating blankets is its ability to protect pipes from freezing in winter. By insulating the pipes, it prevents heat transfer to the outside, ensuring that the water or heat transfer fluids remain at the desired temperature. Similarly, in the summer, it prevents outside heat from entering the pipes, reducing unwanted heat gain [2].

Protection against energy loss

An insulating blanket helps prevent energy loss that typically occurs when heat dissipates from uninsulated pipes. By reducing heat loss, it allows heating and hot water systems to operate more efficiently, resulting in energy savings and reduced heating costs [3].

Conduct Noise Reduction:

Another important reason to use insulation on plumbing is to improve sound insulation. Noises from pipes and conducts can be extremely annoying, especially in living spaces where silence is essential! The addition of an insulating blanket significantly reduces the transmission of noise, which helps to create a more peaceful and pleasant environment. By isolating the pipes, vibrations and unwanted sounds are reduced, thus providing interesting sound insulation. Whether in a home or a commercial space, the use of insulation on the plumbing minimizes noise pollution and improves the quality of life of the occupants [4].

Aesthetic appearance:

Aesthetics play a crucial role when it comes to visible plumbing and pipes. Exposed pipes can create a messy look and compromise the overall appearance of a space. This is where the final touch of insulation on the plumbing comes in, which helps remedy this situation by creating a neat and aesthetically pleasing finish. By using appropriate materials and finishes, pipes can be elegantly concealed, blending harmoniously with the surrounding environment.

Now, it is necessary to dissociate traditional insulations from removable insulation. Why use the latter when its price is higher than that of traditional insulation? Is it really cheaper?

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Figure 4 : Custom removable insualtion when installed

Benefits for technicians who need to perform tests or repairs:

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Figure 5 : Damaged permanent insulation

The use of removable insulation blankets provides technicians, who need to perform tests or repairs, with unparalleled  ease of access to perform maintenance work on various components, without requiring the dismantling of the permanent insulation or degraded. Often, technicians are forced to damage the existing insulation in order to be able to access the components to carry out the necessary checks or repairs. However, with the use of removable insulating blankets, this constraint is eliminated, saving time and money while maintaining the aesthetic appearance of the installation. For example, some components need to be checked on a regular basis.

A clean, convenient and durable installation:

By using removable insulation, labor costs are reduced through quick installation and removal, while facilitating necessary repairs and adjustments. In short, removable insulation represents a practical and effective solution for all technicians, offering them a versatile solution for working on pipes and plumbing equipment [6].

References:

[1] Efficient Energy Use in Buildings. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/design/insulation

[2] Protecting Pipes from Freezing. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-02/documents/protect_pipes_from_freezing_fs_508.pdf

[3] Energy-Efficient Pipe Insulation. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.energy.gov/eere/amo/energy-efficient-pipe-insulation

[4] Reducing Noise with Pipe Insulation. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.thermaxxjackets.com/reducing-noise-with-pipe-insulation/

[5] Hamill, D. (2021). Pipe Insulation for Sustainability and Energy Efficiency. Retrieved from https://www.facilitiesnet.com/plumbingrestrooms/article/Pipe-Insulation-for-Sustainability-and-Energy-Efficiency--19446

[6] CINI - VCI - Roads, Pipes, Insulation. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.cini.eu/

Source: https://www.laprimeenergie.fr/les-travaux/lisolation-thermique/le-calorifugeage                  

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