Equal Thermal Performance

Owens Corning™ FOAMULAR® Extruded Polystyrene (XPS)

Pipe

XPS Type XIII

Begin the Material Selection Process.Narrow the material selection based on the specific application, Figure 1. Base the decision on criteria such as temperature, smoke and fire, moisture requirements, installation cost and energy efficiency.

1Design for the Process Operating Range.Don’t just compare data sheets. For simplicity, k-factors often have a default of 75 degrees Fahrenheit mean temperature. However, the use of a single point could lead to an inferior choice depending on the temperature range of the process. See Figure 2.

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Design for Thermal Drift.There is no need to design for thermal drift with rigid foams. Manufacturers such as Owens Corning have designed products that enhance thermal performance and make thermal drift negligible in rigid foam after 180 days, when k-factors are tested and reported.

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Steps to Simpler Pipe Insulation Specification4

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Temperature - Fo

Insulation Materials k-values vs. Mean Temperature

XPS - OC Foamular

XPS Type XIII ASTM C578-05*

PIR Grade 2 Type IV ASTM C591-01*

Cell Glass ASTM C552-03*

Typical Data Sheet k-factor point

Ammonia System Mean Temp Area

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Evaluate Cost.Once the proper material is selected for the temperature range, thickness becomes the major cost factor. Use 3E Plus Software to calculate thickness. Ask your insulation manufacturer to provide the current thermal data of their material for use with the 3E Plus Software.Remember, thickness means more:a. Insulation Materialb. Joint Sealerc. Masticd. Vapor Barriere. Protective Jacketf. Support Hangers

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Insulation Temperature Ranges