SUM Ltd has developed custom removable insulation blankets for a wide range of conditions — from the frigid, arctic conditions to protecting valuable and expensive equipment against fire-related accidents. Despite this, even the most well-designed custom removable insulation blankets experience wear and tear and may eventually be rendered ineffective. Catching early signs of wear and tear such as cracking, loosening fibres, or other visible damage can save you from a range of issues in the future.
If while inspecting your insulation blankets you find they are due for replacement, consider ordering yours before winter arrives! Winter in Canada has seen snowfall as early as the beginning of September. Our blog covers several tell-tale signs that indicate when to replace your existing insulation. You can read more about it here.
The life expectancy of custom removable insulation blankets may vary due to a range of factors.
- Outdoor Environments
- Outdoor insulation blankets typically have shorter lifespans compared to insulation blankets used indoors. This is due to weather conditions such as harsh winds, hail, sunlight, or snow that can slowly degrade its integrity over time.
- Is the environment your insulation jacket exposed to harsh or mild conditions? If the conditions are harsh, consider exterior materials that can handle the environment.
- Sunlight UV Exposure
- Certain materials such as Kevlar may see a maximum of 50% degradation during continual exposure of sunshine. Other materials’ fibres may also experience degradation over time.
- A material like Teflon can be used as the external of your insulation instead. Teflon is naturally UV resistant. Extended exposure to sunlight may change the colour of Teflon, however, the integrity remains the same.
- Chemical Exposure
- Is the blanket frequently exposed to acidic or corrosive chemicals?
- SUM Ltd’s insulation blankets are sprayed with special coatings that provide resistance to these types of environments.
- Material Choice
- Choosing the correct material for your instrument’s given environment is critical to determining the longevity and lifespan of your insulation blanket.
- For example, fibreglass insulation should not be used in environments that are frequently exposed to humid or wet conditions. Fibreglass is rendered completely ineffective once it is introduced to heavy amounts of water.
- Instead, consider other types of insulating materials. Aerogels hydrophobic and efficient thermal properties make it a great insulation alternative. Mineral wool is also an effective alternative for humid or wet conditions.
- Abrasion
- Cuts or slits caused by tools striking your insulation blanket during repairs or maintenance will also reduce its overall lifespan. If repairs must be done, ensure that the tools used do not compromise the insulation material.
- While external materials such as Teflon are structurally sound, if the blanket is consistently exposed to heavy splashes from the external environment, water may seep into the seams.
If your inspection indicates that it is time to replace your old insulation blankets, do not hesitate. Address the problem ahead of time and avoid headaches during winter where it may be difficult to repair or replace. Regardless of the environment you install SUM Ltd’s custom removable insulation blankets in, you can trust they will last for many years. Head over to our Orders page to start building your new custom-built removable insulation blanket today!