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solar insulation

kpc_39
kpc_39 Member Posts: 5
using for exterior pipe insulation? Armaflex HT looks hard to find but have heard good things about it.
ty,kpc

Comments

  • Simply Rad_2
    Simply Rad_2 Member Posts: 171
    Exterior insulation

    I have been using Tec Lite insulation. PVC jacketed and rated for high temps. I have seen alot of damage to outside insulation such as Armflex. Birds for some reason like to peek at it. PVC will protect it from those critters and the sun.

    Jeffrey
  • Mike C._4
    Mike C._4 Member Posts: 56
    solar insulation

    I used fiberglass with PVC jacketing.
  • hot_rod
    hot_rod Member Posts: 23,385
    watch the temperature rating

    not all brands will handle the 300F plus temperatures that could be experienced with stagnant solar conditions. Also painting the insulation with a latex house paint will help protect against UV.

    I'd second the Techlite product with the PVC or ripstop jacketing. It was designed for outside use in process piping applications.

    Last I checked they would ship small quantities in any size and color. www.techlite.net, I think.

    Check into some of the pre-insulated solar tube products available. You can get flexiable stainless and copper versions with single or dual pipe. Most have a wire inside also for the panel sensor.

    hr

    hr
    Bob "hot rod" Rohr
    trainer for Caleffi NA
    Living the hydronic dream
  • Mike C._4
    Mike C._4 Member Posts: 56
    fiberglass insulation

    Fiberglass goes to 850 deg F.
  • pre-made

    we used the caleffi dual insulated stainless w/wire on our last job, quite pricey but really not that far off when you add up the labor & material to use soft copper & armaflex. but the time saving is really significant.

    the armaflex ht is nice but you have to use their high temp glue which is very expensive ($80/pint!) & our supplier could only get it in full cases of 12! ouch!
  • michael_34
    michael_34 Member Posts: 304
    fiber glass

    The major problems I have seen with Fiberglass insulation is waterlogging. This is mostly with metal jacketing, but i have seen it with PVC jacketing. Unless the pvc is completely sealed the fiberglass becomes a sponge. That is why I switch to armaflex ht or Ecoflex.
  • michael_34
    michael_34 Member Posts: 304
    wow

    I paid $18.00 for a pint of glue.
  • kpc_40
    kpc_40 Member Posts: 62
    what if...

    I were to use the fiberglass. And used a number of layers of duct tape or waterproof paint? The other stuff is not available through my supply house.
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