What Type of Lagging Should You Choose for Your Process Piping?
In many industries, process piping is used to transport gases, liquids or steam from one location to another. It is often important to ensure that these fluids are moved in stable conditions, considering temperature as a critical component. Clearly, it's crucial to regulate that temperature in each environment, which is where insulation comes into the picture. So what do you need to know about pipe lagging?
Various Lagging Options
Often, process piping is made from steel, but it can also be made from cast iron, copper or a special type of metal designed for a given environment. The pipe material is a crucial consideration when working out how to lag or insulate, but you also need to consider other factors. For example, you need to know the operating temperature of the process fluid, the ambient temperature of the outside environment and the touch temperature of the pipe itself. Each of these factors will be crucial in determining what type of insulation you need to apply to the pipe.
Removable or Permanent
Depending on the answers to your questions, you then need to choose whether your insulation will be removable (such as purpose-made covers or blankets) or more permanent insulation made from fibreglass or another product designed to stay in place.
Pros and Cons
The advantage of blankets and other covers is that they can be uninstalled should you need to carry out any maintenance. Take into account previous maintenance logs to determine your access requirements. It may not be cost-effective to install a more permanent lagging solution if you would need to damage it or remove it entirely for expected maintenance work.
Lagging blankets and covers are ideal if you need to stop condensation from forming on cold pipes. This is likely to happen when the piping moves through an area where the ambient temperature is in sharp contrast. Often, you need to avoid condensation as it can cause potential damage to not only the pipe but any nearby equipment. Some blankets or covers have built-in ventilation, so would prevent condensation from forming in the first place by allowing it to evaporate.
What to Do Next
To work out what type of lagging you need, make a list of your principal objectives. For example, you may need to save energy by avoiding heat loss or gain, avoiding damage to pipes or components or protecting individuals working in the area. Once you are clear on your objectives, get in touch with a lagging specialist for further advice.
For more information on pipe lagging, contact a company near you.
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