Condensation Protection
Cold water pipes tend to become wet when in a moist atmosphere due to condensation. This occurs when moist air is cooled to its “Dew Point”, the point at which the water vapour in the atmosphere turns to liquid water. As the cold water pipes are normally at a lower temperature than their surroundings, this water tends to condense onto the pipe, leading to corrosion.
Appropriate HVAC insulation can help control condensation by limiting the temperature differential between the pipe surface and the surrounding air. By maintaining the insulation surface temperature above the dew point, correctly specified and installed insulation reduces the likelihood of surface condensation.
Fire Protection
Ducts require fire protection for a number of reasons, notably to prevent the spread of fire between the different building elements they connect, or for smoke extract purposes. The main job for fire protection systems is to provide stability, integrity and insulation to steel ductwork in the event of a fire, for various periods depending on the system design.
Energy Efficiency
Insulation of air conditioning and heating ductwork improves energy efficiency, temperature control, and condensation prevention.
Air conditioning ducts operate below ambient temperatures. Without appropriate insulation, these ducts are susceptible to surface condensation, which can contribute to corrosion and mould growth.
Insulating heating ducts reduces heat loss and improves efficiency. Common materials include Mineral Wool (Stone & Glass), Ductwrap, Phenolic Slabs, and Nitrile Rubber, providing both thermal and acoustic benefits.
Personal Protection
Insulating HVAC systems is essential for protecting personnel from hazardous surface temperatures on ductwork and piping. Proper insulation helps prevent burns from high-temperature surfaces and cold-related injuries from chilled pipes, ensuring compliance with workplace safety regulations. By maintaining controlled surface temperatures, insulation enhances occupational safety, reduces the risk of accidental contact injuries, and supports regulatory compliance in HVAC system installations.
Indoor Environmental Quality
Acoustic insulation is crucial for HVAC installations and plays an important role in enhancing indoor environmental quality (IEQ) across a wide range of occupied spaces.
