US insulation manufacturer Shannon Global Energy Solutions has developed new hydrophobic thermal and acoustic insulation blankets which it says will reduce the risk corrosion under insulation (CUI) and are safer.
The Shannon Hydrophobic Thermal Blanket, designs LT450TT-HES and LT450TT-HS, and the Shannon Hydrophobic Acoustic Blanket, designs LT450A-TT-HES and LT450A-TT-HS, are suitable for reducing energy loss and noise levels from equipment including valves, pumps, heat exchangers, vessels and compressors with geometrically complex surfaces.
Shannon says that the surface temperature of one of its thermal insulation blankets when in use around a component at 450˚F (232˚C) will range from 108–135˚F (42–57˚C). The acoustic blankets reduce harmful noise levels by up to 15 dBA.
The blankets have a core of Lewco Super Mat, a PTFE-impregnated Type-E needled and felted fiberglass insulation, which has no amorphous silica particulate that can escape as dust, so workers do not need to wear a mask during installation. The PTFE coating gives the blankets their hydrophobic property. This reduces or eliminates water contact with the equipment below, as the water-repellent core does not hold the water. Additionally, water-soaked insulation does not hold heat. Shannon’s hydrophobic blankets do not become saturated in this way,
‘Since the 1970s, blanket manufacturers have used E-glass insulation mat because of its quality and safety; it doesn’t require respiratory masks and body protection to avoid unwanted exposure,’ says Frank Kovacs, president and CEO of Shannon. ‘E-glass is the most widely accepted and specified insulation core material because it’s the safest, most durable. It’s one reason our blankets have earned a reputation for high quality.’
