Steam pipe insulation

Glen_5

I have a one-pipe steam system with its original asbestos insulation. I will deal with that in time, however there are several areas where the old insulation has been removed and bare pipe remains. I would like to insulate those sections to prevent early condensation and would like to know the best way to do this. I have seen fiberglass sleeves, fiberglass rolls, mineral wool, etc as possible options. Any feedback appreciated. Thank you.

michael_15

my opinion

The easiest and quickest while not sacrificing quality or paying far too much, in my opinion, are pre-formed rigid fiberglass. There are some other materials, but I've had a hard time finding them, whereas you can get the pre-formed reigid fiberglass at any plumbing supply store. You can't use most foam products which aren't safe at steam temperatures.

They also sell it at Home Depot/Lowes, but it's extra-thin there and not very useful. You'll probably want it at least an inch thick.

-Michael

chuck_6

You should get the fiberglass insulation. Don't go to Home Depot or Lowes. Go to a heating supply store. It comes in 3 foot lengths. If you don't know the diameter, put a string around the outside of the pipe and bring it to the heating supply store. Try to get at least 1 inch thick. A lot of the smaller diameter pipe insulation comes in 1/2 wall thickness. You may want to insulate over that.