Protection of Thermal and Cryogenic Insulating Materials by the Use of Metal Jacketing and Mastic Coatings

Thermal insulation continues to increase in importance in energy conservation programs. Most thermal and cryogenic insulating materials are structurally weak and require protection from weather, fire, and physical abuse. This protection may be provided in the form of metal jacketing, mastic coatings, or a combination of both, depending upon the application and service and economic requirements. Products offering sound attenuation, while providing insulation protection, are also available in both jacketing and mastic forms for applications where excessive noise generation poses an additional problem. Nonmetallic jackets such as felts, laminates, textiles, and plastics may also be used where abuse resistance is not a prime requirement. What to use, when to use it, and how to use it are important criteria that must be considered when examining the overall insulation system.