As operating temperature of piping systems in hot applications lie above ambient temperature, heat loss can result in unwanted cooling down of the transmitted media, increased room temperature in which the pipes are located, and higher energy use due to the need to maintain the required operating temperature. Insulation minimises unintentional temperature loss, and is a tried-and-tested means of enabling energy savings.

Also, government bodies around the world mandate workplace safety rules to ensure that employers provide their employees with a workplace free from recognised hazards likely to cause death or serious physical harm. Installing the right insulation is one of the easiest and cost-effective measures to meet such occupational safety and health directives.

Most are aware about the benefits of insulation, but they often overlook pipe brackets - especially in hot applications. To effectively prevent thermal bridging, a direct connection between the pipe and the fixing must be avoided. Load-bearing segments made of insulation materials with a high resistance to compression and low thermal conductivity must be inserted between the object and its fixing. The load-bearing segments must be at least as thick as the adjoining insulation layer. It is essential not to exceed the compressive strain of the insulation material which is permitted for permanent loads. Find out more about ArmaFix here.

Occupational hearing loss is one of the most common work-related illnesses. Continued exposure to loud noise kills the nerve endings in our inner ear and can result in permanent hearing loss that cannot be corrected through surgery or with medicine. Screens, barriers or walls can be placed between the source of the noise and the people to stop or reduce the direct sound. Alternatively, insulation of the equipment helps to dampen vibrations and absorbs noise, reducing the problem at the source. Find out more about Armacell's acoustic solutions here.