The human body can only withstand high levels of heat for short times before brain and organ damage sets in. Wet-bulb temperatures around or above 95 °F or 35 °C can cause permanent damage if a person can’t get cool fast enough.
Industrial workplaces, like factories and mills, often use dangerously hot equipment. To improve workplace safety, companies need to have the right insulation materials.
Let’s look at how you can choose the best thermal blanket for your company’s needs.
The Benefits of Thermal Blankets for Insulation
A number of industries use thermal blankets for insulation purposes. There are numerous benefits to using thermal blankets.
The first benefit is the possibility of reducing energy costs. The removable blankets are also useful when it comes to conducting inspections and performing equipment maintenance.
Thermal blankets can also extend the life of machinery by reducing exposure to the elements and protecting it from damage.
The biggest benefit of using thermal blankets revolves around workplace safety. High-temperature pipes and excessive noise levels can cause injuries. With insulation covers, workers are protected from direct contact with pipes, and the noise level is reduced.
Thermal Blanket Components
Thermal blankets, sometimes called acoustic hydrophobic insulation blankets, can be made of different materials. Some of the most common include ceramics, fiberglass, needle mats, and synthetic materials. A thermal blanket expert can help you decide which material is right for your needs.
Insulation blankets consist of three main layers. From the outside in, there’s the outer protective cover, the insulation mat, and the inner liner.
The outer protective cover shields and protects the insulation from the environment. The insulation mat, which is typically fiberglass, is what captures the heat. The inner liner protects the insulation mat from fluids and keeps it in place.
In addition to the three layers, there is also a fastening system. Some of the most common fastening methods include stainless steel lacing wire, snaps, velcro, springs, and straps.
How to Choose the Best Thermal Blanket for Industrial Use
To choose the best thermal insulation material, you first need to determine which form of heat transfer you’re dealing with. The three forms are radiant transfer, convective transfer, and conductive transfer. Each comes with its own challenges.
Radiant heat is transferred from electromagnetic waves. Convective heat comes from a surface by way of air or fluid. Finally, conductive heat happens through physical contact.
In addition to understanding the type of heat transfer you’re dealing with, you’ll also want to have an idea of the temperatures you’re looking to withstand. For example, certain materials may be better depending on the intensity of the heat.
If you’re looking for acoustic protection as well, lightweight heat shields are popular. Not only can they minimize heat, but they mitigate noise as well.
Learn Everything You Need to Know
With the right thermal insulation, workers can do their jobs and stay safe.
Now that you know how to find the best thermal blanket for industrial use, what will you learn next?
