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he insulation of vessels, pipework and ducting is essential to deliver a zero-carbon building. The requirement is both to minimise heating system heat losses and cooling system heat gains.
Insulated pipe support inserts (sometimes simply referred to as ‘blocks’) are designed for use with pipe supports, hanger brackets and clamps. They have traditionally been installed to help ensure a continuous run of insulation – particularly on Chilled Water Applications where a complete vapour barrier is key to system integrity. Now they are also recognised as beneficial to be installed on above ambient services.
Why is it important to insulate pipe supports?
Insulated pipe supports are an important part of pipe insulation as it’s critical not to leave gaps in insulation where the pipes are being supported by clamps. Whilst pipe supports only come into contact with a small area of a total service run, if they are not insulated effectively, these points can account for a significant proportion of heat loss from above ambient temperature systems.
This can undermine other measures put in place to improve energy efficiency, creating a performance gap between the estimated and actual energy demand and operational costs for a building, and is particularly relevant for smaller bore pipework where the frequency of supports is greatest.
How does phenolic help deliver on energy efficiency and sustainability goals?
Phenolic pipe supports offer several benefits for sustainability including:
Energy efficiency
Phenolic pipe supports have a low thermal conductivity, which means they are able to reduce heat transfer between the pipe and the support. This improves energy efficiency by reducing heat loss and reducing the amount of energy required to maintain the desired temperature.
Corrosion Resistance
Phenolic materials are highly resistant to corrosion, which means they are able to withstand harsh environments and resist degradation over time. This reduces the need for maintenance and replacement, reducing waste and preserving resources.
Durability
Phenolic pipe supports are strong and durable, which means they are able to withstand heavy loads and extreme temperatures. This reduces the need for replacement and reduces waste.
Fire Resistance
Phenolic materials are highly fire-resistant, which means they can help prevent the spread of fire through a building. This improves safety and reduces the risk of property damage.
Recyclability
Phenolic materials are recyclable, which means they can be reused or repurposed at the end of their useful life. This reduces waste and helps preserve resources.
Overall, the use of phenolic pipe supports can improve the sustainability of a building by reducing energy consumption, reducing waste, and improving safety.
For more information on How can phenolic insulated pipe supports contribute to net zero targets? talk to Walraven Ltd