WO2014188183A1 - Polymeric foam pipe insulation - Google Patents

Polymeric foam pipe insulation Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2014188183A1
WO2014188183A1 PCT/GB2014/051552 GB2014051552W WO2014188183A1 WO 2014188183 A1 WO2014188183 A1 WO 2014188183A1 GB 2014051552 W GB2014051552 W GB 2014051552W WO 2014188183 A1 WO2014188183 A1 WO 2014188183A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
foam
foam body
less
polymeric
insulation
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2014/051552
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Paul Jacobs
Karl Hewson
Luis CONCEICAO
Original Assignee
Zotefoams Plc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Zotefoams Plc filed Critical Zotefoams Plc
Publication of WO2014188183A1 publication Critical patent/WO2014188183A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B5/00—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts
    • B32B5/18—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by features of a layer of foamed material
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B1/00—Layered products having a non-planar shape
    • B32B1/08—Tubular products
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B3/00—Layered products comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar shape; Layered products comprising a layer having particular features of form
    • B32B3/02—Layered products comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar shape; Layered products comprising a layer having particular features of form characterised by features of form at particular places, e.g. in edge regions
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B3/00—Layered products comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar shape; Layered products comprising a layer having particular features of form
    • B32B3/02—Layered products comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar shape; Layered products comprising a layer having particular features of form characterised by features of form at particular places, e.g. in edge regions
    • B32B3/04—Layered products comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar shape; Layered products comprising a layer having particular features of form characterised by features of form at particular places, e.g. in edge regions characterised by at least one layer folded at the edge, e.g. over another layer ; characterised by at least one layer enveloping or enclosing a material
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B5/00—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts
    • B32B5/22—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by the presence of two or more layers which are next to each other and are fibrous, filamentary, formed of particles or foamed
    • B32B5/24—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by the presence of two or more layers which are next to each other and are fibrous, filamentary, formed of particles or foamed one layer being a fibrous or filamentary layer
    • B32B5/26—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by the presence of two or more layers which are next to each other and are fibrous, filamentary, formed of particles or foamed one layer being a fibrous or filamentary layer another layer next to it also being fibrous or filamentary
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B5/00—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts
    • B32B5/22—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by the presence of two or more layers which are next to each other and are fibrous, filamentary, formed of particles or foamed
    • B32B5/32—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by the presence of two or more layers which are next to each other and are fibrous, filamentary, formed of particles or foamed at least two layers being foamed and next to each other
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L59/00—Thermal insulation in general
    • F16L59/02—Shape or form of insulating materials, with or without coverings integral with the insulating materials
    • F16L59/027—Bands, cords, strips or the like for helically winding around a cylindrical object
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2266/00—Composition of foam
    • B32B2266/02—Organic
    • B32B2266/0214—Materials belonging to B32B27/00
    • B32B2266/0257—Polyamide
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2307/00—Properties of the layers or laminate
    • B32B2307/20—Properties of the layers or laminate having particular electrical or magnetic properties, e.g. piezoelectric
    • B32B2307/206—Insulating
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2307/00—Properties of the layers or laminate
    • B32B2307/30—Properties of the layers or laminate having particular thermal properties
    • B32B2307/304—Insulating
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2553/00—Packaging equipment or accessories not otherwise provided for
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2553/00—Packaging equipment or accessories not otherwise provided for
    • B32B2553/02—Shock absorbing
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2605/00—Vehicles

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to polymeric foam insulation for pipes and ducts.
  • the foam insulation is provided in the form of a semi-rigid spiral that can easily be helically wound around the pipe or duct to be insulated without the need for specialist tools.
  • Piping and ducting systems are designed to transport a variety of fluids, some of which may be heated, such as a hot air, hot water or steam, and some of which may be chilled, such as a cold water, or in some instances the temperature of the fluids may alternate between hot and cold.
  • fluids some of which may be heated, such as a hot air, hot water or steam, and some of which may be chilled, such as a cold water, or in some instances the temperature of the fluids may alternate between hot and cold.
  • the fluid transported is at a different temperature to that of the ambient environment, it is desirable to insulate the piping to maintain the temperature of the fluid being transported, and to reduce overall energy losses in the system.
  • the insulation may provide protection against burn or freeze injuries that could occur as a result of contact with uninsulated or insufficiently insulated pipework.
  • the semi-rigid foam spiral does not have to be of exactly the same dimensions as pipe to be insulated.
  • ID internal diameter
  • OD external diameter
  • the semi-rigid nature of the foam means that it has sufficient "spring-back" to grip the pipe once installed.
  • the spiral design also allows some latitude in the angle of winding and the gap between adjacent turns, particularly if the semi-rigid foam spiral is to be used in combination with an outer layer of insulating material.
  • the fact that the spiral does not need to be bonded to the pipe or have its edges joined to form a tube has the additional advantage of allowing it to more easily accommodate any thermal expansion or contraction of the pipe being insulated.
  • US 4239064 discloses a tube which can be torn into a length of coiled insulation wrapping, which comprises at least two layers of a firm, foamed
  • thermoplastic polymer web which has been set into a coiled configuration.
  • US 2008/0128043 discloses a flexible insulating material which can be wound spirally around a length of pipe.
  • GB 2373308 (Gresham Wood Industry Ltd) discloses an elongate spiral thermal guard for thermally isolating a member such as a pipe.
  • US 4,218,814 discloses an elongate flexible tubular sheath having a longitudinal slit from end to end which can be helically wrapped around a conduit.
  • an elongate polymeric foam body for insulating a water pipe, wherein at least part of the body is in the form of a helix disposed around a longitudinal core, wherein the foam forming the helix has a thermal conductivity of less than 0.15 W/mK at 0°C and is sufficiently flexible to be able to move from a first configuration in which the longitudinal core has a first diameter to a second configuration in which the longitudinal core has a second diameter, the second diameter being greater than the first diameter, and wherein the foam forming the helix is resiliently biased into the first configuration, whereby in use the foam body can be moved from the first configuration to the second configuration to enable a water pipe to be disposed in the longitudinal core, the resilient bias of the foam causing the foam body to grip the water pipe.
  • the main advantage of the present invention is that by using a low thermal conductivity foam to form the semi-rigid foam spiral a reduced thickness of foam can be used to achieve the required level of thermal insulation or personal protection than if a higher thermal conductivity material were used.
  • This reduction in the thickness of the insulation will make it easier to handle, install and maintain, particularly where the pipe or duct to be insulated is in a confined space, and it may also be accompanied by a reduction in weight. Any reduction in the weight of the insulation will reduce the overall weight of the pipe or ducting system and might allow the use of lighter weight brackets, hangers, fixings and the like. This would have significant benefits for pipe or ducting systems in mass transport applications, such as aircraft and trains, where weight savings can reduce fuel consumption, thereby reducing the environmental impact and making a significant contribution to reducing the operating costs over the lifetime of the vehicle.
  • the present invention is preferably a semi-rigid spiral of polymeric foam that can be used for the thermal or thermal acoustic insulation of pipework and ducting.
  • the semirigid spiral can be fabricated from sheets, blocks, rolls, strips, tapes, tubes, rods or other shapes of foam, using techniques such as cutting, slitting, cold-forming, moulding, thermoforming or any other technique known to those skilled in the art.
  • the foam can be heat welded or laminated by standard techniques to form spirals with any desired thickness length or thickness.
  • the surface of the foam may be provided with a closed skin due to a healing effect of the outermost cell walls, however, where cold- forming processes are used the surface of the foam may have a proportion of open cells from the cutting and slitting processes used to fabricate the material.
  • polymeric foam insulation materials may be thermoplastic or thermoset and may have an open or a closed cell structure.
  • polymeric foams used for pipe insulation include polyethylene, EPDM, polyurethane, polyisocyanurate, melamine, polyamide and polyvinylidene fluoride. They are typically characterised by their low density and low thermal conductivity, i.e. less than 0.04 W/mK at 0°C, although in certain specific applications thermal conductivities of up to 0.15 W/mK may be considered.
  • it is desirable for the foam to have sufficient rigidity to form a self-supporting spiral while retaining sufficient flexibility to allow it to be wrapped around the pipe or duct to be insulated.
  • the semi-rigid spiral could also be formed from a composite structure of various layers, selected from any number of polymeric foams, films, foils, textiles, reinforcements and other materials known to those skilled in the art. Such a composite structure could be prepared by heat lamination, adhesive bonding, sewing or other techniques known to those skilled in the art. Individual layers could have different functional characteristics such as thermal conductivity, temperature resistance, weatherability, fire performance, colour or identification markings. It is further contemplated that the semi-rigid spiral could be used in combination with insulation in any of the other known formats described previously, including semi-circular half sections, tubes, strips, rolls and sheets.
  • the present invention has been described with particular emphasis on the thermal or thermal acoustic insulation of pipework and ducting, there are many other applications wherein the inherent benefits of polymeric foam combined with ease of installation would be advantageous.
  • the cushioning properties of the foam make it suitable for impact protection on pipes, posts, barriers, handrails, scaffolding poles and the like.
  • transportation applications including the protection of ship's railings and roll-bars and cages in vehicles are contemplated, and further applications include impact protection and cushioning on animal stalls, pens, cages and the like.
  • the present invention can also be used on the support poles of swings, trampolines and other playground equipment to protect children from accidental injury.
  • Sporting applications include impact protection on rugby and American football posts and the support poles of basketball hoops and the like. On a smaller scale, grips for bats, racquets, handlebars and other sporting equipment are also contemplated. Further applications include grips for canoe and kayak paddles and rowing oar handles, where the selection of a closed cell foam would impart additional buoyancy, and the handles of rowing machines and other gym equipment.
  • the present invention has use in medical applications as a wrap to provide localized support and impact protection, in planned or emergency situations, particularly in the area of orthopaedics and fractures. It could find similar applications in veterinary medicine, for example, in the protection or treatment of the legs of animals such as horses. In such applications the selection of a closed cell foam would provide a barrier to liquids, micro-organisms and dirt, and, if the polymer was selected from those known to those skilled in the art as breathable, for example a polyether block amide (PEBA), it would also allow sweat and moisture to pass through.
  • PEBA polyether block amide
  • Another use of the present invention is that it can be used to provide protection to the trunks of newly planted trees and saplings that might otherwise be subject to attack by insects or animals.
  • the nature of the present invention is such that it is easily installed and, once installed, it allows for some expansion of the trunk as the tree grows. It can also be designed such that the young tree or sapling can flex in the wind allowing the development of a strong root system. Further horticultural applications include grips for long handled tools and other gardening equipment.
  • the inherent insulation properties of the present invention also make it suitable for use as a beverage can, cup or bottle holder, commonly known as a koozie.
  • the present invention could be decorated with advertising or promotional information.
  • the present invention might be considered disposable, for example at sporting events, concerts or festivals, and in such cases it would be advantageous if the polymer were selected from those known to be biodegradable or compostable.
  • Further applications of the present invention include packaging, and in particular returnable packaging, for tubes, rods, bottles, cylinders and the like.
  • the present invention can also be used to cover the framework of cages, stillages or racks to prevent the contents being scratched or damaged in some other way.
  • the present invention can also find use in cable management and can further be used as an electrical insulation.
  • the polymeric foam of the invention is closed cell
  • the present invention can also be used to impart buoyancy to an object as mentioned previously with regard to watersports.
  • a semi-rigid spiral of polymeric foam may be provided that can be used for the thermal or thermal acoustic insulation of pipework and ducting.
  • the semi-rigid spiral can be fabricated from sheets, blocks, rolls, strips, tapes, blocks, tubes, rods or other shapes of foam, using a variety of hot or cold forming techniques.
  • the foam can be heat welded, laminated or adhesively bonded by standard techniques to form a spiral with any desired length or thickness.
  • the semi-rigid foam spiral can easily be installed around the pipe or duct to be insulated by helical winding without the need for specialist tools.
  • the foam body in accordance with the invention can also be used: (a) as an impact protector for a bar, barrier, pipe or section of scaffolding, or on animal stalls, pens or cages, to reduce the risk of impact damage or injury to an individual or animal;
  • an elongate polymeric foam body for insulating a water pipe wherein at least part of the body is in the form of a helix disposed around a longitudinal core, wherein the foam forming the helix has a density of less than 200kg/m 3 and is sufficiently flexible to be able to move from a first configuration in which the longitudinal core has a first diameter to a second configuration in which the longitudinal core has a second diameter, the second diameter being greater than the first diameter, and wherein the foam forming the helix is resiliently biased into the first configuration, whereby in use the foam body can be moved from the first configuration to the second configuration to enable a water pipe to be disposed in the longitudinal core, the resilient bias of the foam causing the foam body to grip the water pipe.
  • FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the tightly wound semi-rigid polymeric foam spiral insulation of the present invention prior to installation.
  • FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the semi-rigid polymeric foam spiral insulation of the present invention installed on a length of pipe.
  • PVDF polyvinylidene fluoride

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Thermal Insulation (AREA)

Abstract

A helical elongate polymeric foam body is provided for insulating a water pipe, wherein the foam forming the helix has a thermal conductivity of less than 0.15 W/mK at 0°C.

Description

POLYMERIC FOAM PIPE INSULATION
FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to polymeric foam insulation for pipes and ducts. The foam insulation is provided in the form of a semi-rigid spiral that can easily be helically wound around the pipe or duct to be insulated without the need for specialist tools.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Piping and ducting systems are designed to transport a variety of fluids, some of which may be heated, such as a hot air, hot water or steam, and some of which may be chilled, such as a cold water, or in some instances the temperature of the fluids may alternate between hot and cold. When the fluid transported is at a different temperature to that of the ambient environment, it is desirable to insulate the piping to maintain the temperature of the fluid being transported, and to reduce overall energy losses in the system. In addition to this, the insulation may provide protection against burn or freeze injuries that could occur as a result of contact with uninsulated or insufficiently insulated pipework.
To address this need to insulate pipework, and in particular heated systems, a wide variety of thermal insulation products are available. These range from the relatively low operating temperature expanded polyethylene foam tubes that are slit along the length for ease of installation to the higher temperature mineral wool and fiberglass materials that have higher temperature performance but are inherently more difficult to handle and install because of their fibrous nature. In view of these limitations, a number of solutions involving the complex use of layers of different materials with different characteristics have been disclosed. In US5934338, for example, Perstnev et al describe the use of a layer of high temperature mineral wool adjacent to the pipe surface and an outer layer of a polymeric foam material (polyurethane). In US6403180, Barrall also teaches the use of two or more layers of insulation to achieve pipe insulation with the required temperature performance. In this disclosure the insulation is prepared in the form of semi-circular shaped lengths of material that must precisely match the dimensions of the pipe to be insulated in order for the mating surfaces to be abutted exactly. The need for ease of installation of the pipe insulation is widely recognized and insulation is provided in a number of formats including semi-circular half sections, tubes, strips, rolls and sheets. In patent application US2003/0234058, for example, Tippins describes a self-closing pipe insulation device that is designed to assume a tubular sleeve configuration when applied to the pipe to be insulated. As previously, the use of two or more layers of insulation to achieve the required level of insulation is contemplated. Tippins is also in agreement with Barrall regarding the need for accurate preparation of the insulation material in order to facilitate the even joining of the longitudinal edges of the material to form the tubular sleeve configuration. It is an advantage of the present invention that, unlike the teaching of Barrall and
Tippins, the semi-rigid foam spiral does not have to be of exactly the same dimensions as pipe to be insulated. Provided that the internal diameter (ID) of the foam spiral is smaller than the external diameter (OD) of the pipe to be insulated the semi-rigid nature of the foam means that it has sufficient "spring-back" to grip the pipe once installed. The spiral design also allows some latitude in the angle of winding and the gap between adjacent turns, particularly if the semi-rigid foam spiral is to be used in combination with an outer layer of insulating material. The fact that the spiral does not need to be bonded to the pipe or have its edges joined to form a tube has the additional advantage of allowing it to more easily accommodate any thermal expansion or contraction of the pipe being insulated.
While it is recognized that the helical winding of thermal insulation onto a pipe is already known to those skilled in the art, this method typically uses a flexible insulation in the form of a strip that is wound around the pipe and often requires specialized equipment to do this. For example, in US6283160 Hardy et al teach the helical winding of at least one strip of thermal insulation around a flexible pipe. One advantage of the semi-rigid foam spiral of the present invention is that it can easily be wound around the pipe or duct to be insulated without the need for specialist tools. A further advantage is that the pipe or duct to be insulated can be rigid or flexible, straight or curved.
US 4239064 (Gilman) discloses a tube which can be torn into a length of coiled insulation wrapping, which comprises at least two layers of a firm, foamed
thermoplastic polymer web which has been set into a coiled configuration.
US 2008/0128043 (Watkins) discloses a flexible insulating material which can be wound spirally around a length of pipe.
DE 102009053092 (Audi AG) discloses a stone chip protection unit for a spring element which has a protective hose encasing the spring element which is formed from a shock-absorbing and elastic material in the form of a spiral coiled tube having multiple windings.
DE 2412003 (Neumann) discloses a binding system for cables or rubber tubes which has a helically wound strip with interlocking edges.
GB 2373308 (Gresham Wood Industry Ltd) discloses an elongate spiral thermal guard for thermally isolating a member such as a pipe.
US 4,218,814 (Dart Industries Inc) discloses an elongate flexible tubular sheath having a longitudinal slit from end to end which can be helically wrapped around a conduit. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an elongate polymeric foam body for insulating a water pipe, wherein at least part of the body is in the form of a helix disposed around a longitudinal core, wherein the foam forming the helix has a thermal conductivity of less than 0.15 W/mK at 0°C and is sufficiently flexible to be able to move from a first configuration in which the longitudinal core has a first diameter to a second configuration in which the longitudinal core has a second diameter, the second diameter being greater than the first diameter, and wherein the foam forming the helix is resiliently biased into the first configuration, whereby in use the foam body can be moved from the first configuration to the second configuration to enable a water pipe to be disposed in the longitudinal core, the resilient bias of the foam causing the foam body to grip the water pipe.
None of the prior art documents employ a foam having a thermal conductivity of less than 0.15 W/mK at 0°C. The main advantage of the present invention is that by using a low thermal conductivity foam to form the semi-rigid foam spiral a reduced thickness of foam can be used to achieve the required level of thermal insulation or personal protection than if a higher thermal conductivity material were used. This reduction in the thickness of the insulation will make it easier to handle, install and maintain, particularly where the pipe or duct to be insulated is in a confined space, and it may also be accompanied by a reduction in weight. Any reduction in the weight of the insulation will reduce the overall weight of the pipe or ducting system and might allow the use of lighter weight brackets, hangers, fixings and the like. This would have significant benefits for pipe or ducting systems in mass transport applications, such as aircraft and trains, where weight savings can reduce fuel consumption, thereby reducing the environmental impact and making a significant contribution to reducing the operating costs over the lifetime of the vehicle.
The present invention is preferably a semi-rigid spiral of polymeric foam that can be used for the thermal or thermal acoustic insulation of pipework and ducting. The semirigid spiral can be fabricated from sheets, blocks, rolls, strips, tapes, tubes, rods or other shapes of foam, using techniques such as cutting, slitting, cold-forming, moulding, thermoforming or any other technique known to those skilled in the art. The foam can be heat welded or laminated by standard techniques to form spirals with any desired thickness length or thickness. Where thermal processes are used to form the spiral, as in the case of thermoforming for example, the surface of the foam may be provided with a closed skin due to a healing effect of the outermost cell walls, however, where cold- forming processes are used the surface of the foam may have a proportion of open cells from the cutting and slitting processes used to fabricate the material.
As regards the polymeric foam, polymeric foam insulation materials may be thermoplastic or thermoset and may have an open or a closed cell structure. Examples of polymeric foams used for pipe insulation include polyethylene, EPDM, polyurethane, polyisocyanurate, melamine, polyamide and polyvinylidene fluoride. They are typically characterised by their low density and low thermal conductivity, i.e. less than 0.04 W/mK at 0°C, although in certain specific applications thermal conductivities of up to 0.15 W/mK may be considered. In the present invention it is desirable for the foam to have sufficient rigidity to form a self-supporting spiral while retaining sufficient flexibility to allow it to be wrapped around the pipe or duct to be insulated.
It is contemplated that the semi-rigid spiral could also be formed from a composite structure of various layers, selected from any number of polymeric foams, films, foils, textiles, reinforcements and other materials known to those skilled in the art. Such a composite structure could be prepared by heat lamination, adhesive bonding, sewing or other techniques known to those skilled in the art. Individual layers could have different functional characteristics such as thermal conductivity, temperature resistance, weatherability, fire performance, colour or identification markings. It is further contemplated that the semi-rigid spiral could be used in combination with insulation in any of the other known formats described previously, including semi-circular half sections, tubes, strips, rolls and sheets. Although the present invention has been described with particular emphasis on the thermal or thermal acoustic insulation of pipework and ducting, there are many other applications wherein the inherent benefits of polymeric foam combined with ease of installation would be advantageous. For example, the cushioning properties of the foam make it suitable for impact protection on pipes, posts, barriers, handrails, scaffolding poles and the like. In addition to those examples given above, transportation applications including the protection of ship's railings and roll-bars and cages in vehicles are contemplated, and further applications include impact protection and cushioning on animal stalls, pens, cages and the like. The present invention can also be used on the support poles of swings, trampolines and other playground equipment to protect children from accidental injury. Sporting applications include impact protection on rugby and American football posts and the support poles of basketball hoops and the like. On a smaller scale, grips for bats, racquets, handlebars and other sporting equipment are also contemplated. Further applications include grips for canoe and kayak paddles and rowing oar handles, where the selection of a closed cell foam would impart additional buoyancy, and the handles of rowing machines and other gym equipment.
The present invention has use in medical applications as a wrap to provide localized support and impact protection, in planned or emergency situations, particularly in the area of orthopaedics and fractures. It could find similar applications in veterinary medicine, for example, in the protection or treatment of the legs of animals such as horses. In such applications the selection of a closed cell foam would provide a barrier to liquids, micro-organisms and dirt, and, if the polymer was selected from those known to those skilled in the art as breathable, for example a polyether block amide (PEBA), it would also allow sweat and moisture to pass through.
Another use of the present invention is that it can be used to provide protection to the trunks of newly planted trees and saplings that might otherwise be subject to attack by insects or animals. The nature of the present invention is such that it is easily installed and, once installed, it allows for some expansion of the trunk as the tree grows. It can also be designed such that the young tree or sapling can flex in the wind allowing the development of a strong root system. Further horticultural applications include grips for long handled tools and other gardening equipment.
The inherent insulation properties of the present invention also make it suitable for use as a beverage can, cup or bottle holder, commonly known as a koozie. In such applications the present invention could be decorated with advertising or promotional information. It is also contemplated that in this application the present invention might be considered disposable, for example at sporting events, concerts or festivals, and in such cases it would be advantageous if the polymer were selected from those known to be biodegradable or compostable. Further applications of the present invention include packaging, and in particular returnable packaging, for tubes, rods, bottles, cylinders and the like. The present invention can also be used to cover the framework of cages, stillages or racks to prevent the contents being scratched or damaged in some other way. The present invention can also find use in cable management and can further be used as an electrical insulation. Where the polymeric foam of the invention is closed cell, the present invention can also be used to impart buoyancy to an object as mentioned previously with regard to watersports. A semi-rigid spiral of polymeric foam may be provided that can be used for the thermal or thermal acoustic insulation of pipework and ducting. The semi-rigid spiral can be fabricated from sheets, blocks, rolls, strips, tapes, blocks, tubes, rods or other shapes of foam, using a variety of hot or cold forming techniques. The foam can be heat welded, laminated or adhesively bonded by standard techniques to form a spiral with any desired length or thickness. The semi-rigid foam spiral can easily be installed around the pipe or duct to be insulated by helical winding without the need for specialist tools.
The foam body in accordance with the invention can also be used: (a) as an impact protector for a bar, barrier, pipe or section of scaffolding, or on animal stalls, pens or cages, to reduce the risk of impact damage or injury to an individual or animal;
(b) as a grip for canoe or kayak paddles or rowing oar handles;
(c) as a wrap to provide localized support and impact protection in a medical or veterinary application or in personal protective equipment; (d) as a grip for tools or gardening equipment;
(e) as a beverage can, cup or bottle holder;
(f) as packaging;
(g) for cable management; or (h) as an electrical insulator.
In accordance with an alternative aspect of the invention, there is provided an elongate polymeric foam body for insulating a water pipe, wherein at least part of the body is in the form of a helix disposed around a longitudinal core, wherein the foam forming the helix has a density of less than 200kg/m3 and is sufficiently flexible to be able to move from a first configuration in which the longitudinal core has a first diameter to a second configuration in which the longitudinal core has a second diameter, the second diameter being greater than the first diameter, and wherein the foam forming the helix is resiliently biased into the first configuration, whereby in use the foam body can be moved from the first configuration to the second configuration to enable a water pipe to be disposed in the longitudinal core, the resilient bias of the foam causing the foam body to grip the water pipe.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the tightly wound semi-rigid polymeric foam spiral insulation of the present invention prior to installation.
FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the semi-rigid polymeric foam spiral insulation of the present invention installed on a length of pipe. EXAMPLES
Example 1
A 500mm x 25mm x 5mm strip of Zotek NB50 (Zotefoams) polyamide foam, thermal conductivity 0.036 W/m.K at 0°C, was wound tightly around a 25mm diameter mandrel heated to a temperature of 230°C and the foam and mandrel were then allowed to cool to room temperature. The mandrel was then removed to leave a self-supporting semirigid polyamide foam spiral. The foam spiral was then wound around a 50mm diameter pipe without the need for any additional adhesives, tapes or mechanical fixings.
Example 2
A 750mm x 25mm x 5mm strip of Zotek F38HT (Zotefoams) polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) foam, thermal conductivity 0.030 W/m.K at 0°C, was wound tightly around a 25mm diameter mandrel heated to a temperature of 170°C and the foam and mandrel were then allowed to cool to room temperature. The mandrel was then removed to leave a self-supporting semi-rigid PVDF foam spiral.
Example 3
A 1200mm x 25mm x 6mm strip of Plastazote LD45 (Zotefoams) low density polyethylene (LDPE) foam, thermal conductivity <0.042 W/m.K at 0°C, was wound tightly around a 25mm diameter mandrel heated to a temperature of 120°C and the foam and mandrel were then allowed to cool to room temperature. The mandrel was then removed to leave a self-supporting semi-rigid LDPE foam spiral.

Claims

1. An elongate polymeric foam body for insulating a water pipe, wherein at least part of the body is in the form of a helix disposed around a longitudinal core, wherein the foam forming the helix has a thermal conductivity of less than 0.15 W/mK at 0°C and is sufficiently flexible to be able to move from a first configuration in which the longitudinal core has a first diameter to a second configuration in which the longitudinal core has a second diameter, the second diameter being greater than the first diameter, and wherein the foam forming the helix is resiliently biased into the first configuration, whereby in use the foam body can be moved from the first configuration to the second configuration to enable a water pipe to be disposed in the longitudinal core, the resilient bias of the foam causing the foam body to grip the water pipe.
2. A foam body as claimed in claim 1 comprising a first layer of polymeric foam which has a thermal conductivity of less than 0.15 W/mK at 0°C and one or more additional layers selected from foams, films, foils, textiles and reinforcing material.
3. A foam body as claimed in Claim 1 or 2, wherein the polymeric foam has a thermal conductivity of less than 0.04 W/mK at 0°C.
4. A foam body as claimed in Claim 1 or 2, wherein the polymeric foam has a thermal conductivity of less than 0.15 W/mK at 150°C.
5. A foam body as claimed in Claim 4, wherein the polymeric foam has a thermal conductivity of less than 0.07 W/mK at 150°C.
6. A foam body as claimed in Claim 5, wherein the polymeric foam has a thermal conductivity of less than 0.055 W/mK at 150°C.
7. A foam body as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the polymer is a thermoplastic.
8. A foam body as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the polymeric foam has a density of less than 200kg/m3.
9. A foam body as claimed in Claim 8, wherein the polymeric foam has a density of less than 100kg/m3.
10. A foam body as claimed in Claim 9, wherein the polymeric foam has a density of less than 60kg/m3.
11. A foam body as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the polymeric foam is closed cell.
12. A foam body as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the polymeric foam is crosslinked.
13. The preparation of the multilayer structure according to Claim 2 by heat lamination or adhesive bonding.
14. The transformation of the polymeric foam insulation according to Claim 1 or 2 into a continuous or semi-continuous spiral of any desired length by welding, laminating or adhesive bonding.
15. The use of a foam body as claimed in any of claims 1 to 12 as insulation for rigid or flexible pipes and ducts in industrial process equipment and installations.
16. The use of a foam body as claimed in any of claims 1 to 12 as insulation for rigid or flexible oil and gas pipelines.
17. The use of a foam body as claimed in any of claims 1 to 12 as insulation for rigid or flexible pipes and ducts in buildings.
18. The use of a foam body as claimed in any of claims 1 to 12 as insulation for rigid or flexible pipes and ducts in vehicles.
19. The use of a foam body as claimed in any of claims 1 to 12 to protect sapling or tree trunks or branches from damage.
20. The use of a foam body as claimed in any of claims 1 to 12 as an impact protector for a bar, pipe or section of scaffolding, to reduce the risk of impact damage. A pipe having a foam body as claimed in any of claims 1 to 12 fitted thereon.
PCT/GB2014/051552 2013-05-22 2014-05-21 Polymeric foam pipe insulation WO2014188183A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB1309243.2 2013-05-22
GB201309243A GB201309243D0 (en) 2013-05-22 2013-05-22 Polymeric foam pipe insulation

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2014188183A1 true WO2014188183A1 (en) 2014-11-27

Family

ID=48747177

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/GB2014/051552 WO2014188183A1 (en) 2013-05-22 2014-05-21 Polymeric foam pipe insulation

Country Status (2)

Country Link
GB (1) GB201309243D0 (en)
WO (1) WO2014188183A1 (en)

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2016211632A (en) * 2015-05-01 2016-12-15 エバック株式会社 Heat insulation hose and process of manufacture the same
WO2017068135A1 (en) * 2015-10-22 2017-04-27 Technip France Method for assembling a rigid conduit and associated conduit
US10793777B2 (en) 2017-07-11 2020-10-06 Lukla Inc. Low density closed cell composite aerogel foam and articles including same
US20220242522A1 (en) * 2021-02-03 2022-08-04 J.E.T.S.S. Llc Jet Sled

Citations (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1435311A (en) * 1921-01-10 1922-11-14 Grace P Knight Flexible tubular clamping jacket
US3279503A (en) * 1963-08-19 1966-10-18 Dow Chemical Co Snap-on foamed resin insulation
CA975279A (en) * 1971-10-26 1975-09-30 Goodrich (B.F.) Company (The) Curved resilient laminates
US4239064A (en) * 1979-01-15 1980-12-16 Richard Gilman Insulation tubes and process of making same
US4874648A (en) * 1988-03-17 1989-10-17 Sorrento Engineer, Inc. Method of making flame resistant polyimide foam insulation and the resulting insulation
US5030518A (en) * 1987-12-09 1991-07-09 Messerschmitt-Boelkow-Blohm Gmbh Multi-layer thermal insulation, especially for spacecraft
US5049426A (en) * 1988-08-08 1991-09-17 Pyramid Corporation Helical formed take-up liner for uncured rubber members and method of producing the same
JPH0867762A (en) * 1994-08-31 1996-03-12 Sekisui Plastics Co Ltd Pre-expanded thermoplastic resin particle having low thermal conductivity and molding made thereof
US20060237216A1 (en) * 2003-12-25 2006-10-26 Toyo Quality One Corporation Covering member and method of manufacturing the same
US20070053406A1 (en) * 2005-09-08 2007-03-08 Laguardia Wendy Temperature-indicating container
JP2011117503A (en) * 2009-12-02 2011-06-16 Panasonic Corp Covering material for pipe

Patent Citations (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1435311A (en) * 1921-01-10 1922-11-14 Grace P Knight Flexible tubular clamping jacket
US3279503A (en) * 1963-08-19 1966-10-18 Dow Chemical Co Snap-on foamed resin insulation
CA975279A (en) * 1971-10-26 1975-09-30 Goodrich (B.F.) Company (The) Curved resilient laminates
US4239064A (en) * 1979-01-15 1980-12-16 Richard Gilman Insulation tubes and process of making same
US5030518A (en) * 1987-12-09 1991-07-09 Messerschmitt-Boelkow-Blohm Gmbh Multi-layer thermal insulation, especially for spacecraft
US4874648A (en) * 1988-03-17 1989-10-17 Sorrento Engineer, Inc. Method of making flame resistant polyimide foam insulation and the resulting insulation
US5049426A (en) * 1988-08-08 1991-09-17 Pyramid Corporation Helical formed take-up liner for uncured rubber members and method of producing the same
JPH0867762A (en) * 1994-08-31 1996-03-12 Sekisui Plastics Co Ltd Pre-expanded thermoplastic resin particle having low thermal conductivity and molding made thereof
US20060237216A1 (en) * 2003-12-25 2006-10-26 Toyo Quality One Corporation Covering member and method of manufacturing the same
US20070053406A1 (en) * 2005-09-08 2007-03-08 Laguardia Wendy Temperature-indicating container
JP2011117503A (en) * 2009-12-02 2011-06-16 Panasonic Corp Covering material for pipe

Non-Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
DATABASE WPI Week 199620, Derwent World Patents Index; AN 1996-196616, XP002729120 *
DATABASE WPI Week 201140, Derwent World Patents Index; AN 2011-G65136, XP002729457 *

Cited By (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2016211632A (en) * 2015-05-01 2016-12-15 エバック株式会社 Heat insulation hose and process of manufacture the same
WO2017068135A1 (en) * 2015-10-22 2017-04-27 Technip France Method for assembling a rigid conduit and associated conduit
FR3042842A1 (en) * 2015-10-22 2017-04-28 Technip France METHOD OF ASSEMBLING A RIGID CONDUIT AND CONDUCT THEREFOR
US10697578B2 (en) 2015-10-22 2020-06-30 Technip France Method for assembling a rigid conduit and associated conduit
US10793777B2 (en) 2017-07-11 2020-10-06 Lukla Inc. Low density closed cell composite aerogel foam and articles including same
US11932800B2 (en) 2017-07-11 2024-03-19 Lukla Inc. Low density closed cell composite aerogel foam and articles including same
US20220242522A1 (en) * 2021-02-03 2022-08-04 J.E.T.S.S. Llc Jet Sled
US11485451B2 (en) * 2021-02-03 2022-11-01 Jetts, Llc Jet sled
US11897579B2 (en) 2021-02-03 2024-02-13 Jetts, Llc Jet sled

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
GB201309243D0 (en) 2013-07-03

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
WO2014188183A1 (en) Polymeric foam pipe insulation
US8261558B2 (en) Self-adjusting insulation, including insulation particularly suited for pipe or duct
US7793689B2 (en) Multilayer heat tracing insulation device and method
RU2015138094A (en) METHOD FOR PRODUCING AN INSULATED PIPE IN A CORRUGATED SHELL
US8104519B1 (en) Pipe insulation product with charge dissipater
US20120279492A1 (en) Solar panel tube
MY157589A (en) Wrappable Styrenic Pipe Insulations
JP2007205503A (en) Thermal insulated double-walled pipe
US20130220472A1 (en) Fully laminated flexible ventilation duct
US9145999B2 (en) Shear increasing system
US9827745B2 (en) Grooved polymeric insulation foam member and related method
EP2999590A1 (en) Polymeric foam pipe instulation
US20170227248A1 (en) Flexible ventilation duct and a related production method
US20120267070A1 (en) Beverage transport assembly
DK202200071Y3 (en) Thermally insulated pipe
DK1355103T3 (en) Preinsulated pipe
WO2006012682A8 (en) Corrosion resisting pipelines
JP2005172168A (en) Pipe set for hot water circulation piping
CN201526736U (en) Composite protective material and conveying pipeline therewith
US20130071593A1 (en) Insulating member for covering a conduit in a clean room
JP4881091B2 (en) Hot water floor heating conduit material
Mustaffa et al. Flexible thermosetting pipe
WO2014001429A1 (en) Flexible transfer hose for a cryogenic fluid
WO2007003607A1 (en) Heat insulating material consisting of a melamine/formaldehyde foam for containers or pipelines containing cryogenic liquids
PL230084B1 (en) Method for manufacturing pre-insulated pipes

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 14731331

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 14731331

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1