Why Facilities Need Pipe Insulation Coatings
In a Distribution Center, the roof housed between 50 and 60 ammonia pipes, which posed a significant maintenance challenge. The pipes, subjected to moisture exposure, were becoming a target for birds pecking at the original insulation coating. Additionally, insects were getting trapped in the worn-down layers, leading to the Facility’s maintenance team needing to reapply the pipe insulation yearly. With the pipes operating in extreme conditions ranging from -20 °F to above 120 °F (-29 °C to above 49 °C), a long-term, reliable pipe insulation coating was needed.
Why Belzona 5871?
Belzona 5871 was selected for several key reasons. First, its self-foaming, insulative properties offered superior performance in a wide range of temperatures, protecting the pipes from both sub-zero conditions and high heat.
Secondly, this pipe insulation coating promised significant long-term cost savings by reducing the need for frequent maintenance—a clear improvement over the previous coating, which had to be reapplied every year.
Applying the Pipe Insulation Coating, Belzona 5871
The repair process began with removing the existing insulation from the pipes. To prepare the carbon steel substrate for the new pipe insulation solution, the team used an MBX Bristle Blaster, an efficient tool that allowed the pipes to remain online during the preparation. Notably, no grinding was required, which minimized downtime and allowed the repair to proceed without interrupting the system’s operations.
Once the surface was prepared, a single layer of Belzona 5871 was applied directly to the pipes using a short-bristled brush. The pipe insulation solution expanded upon application, creating a lightweight, closed-cell foam that provided excellent pipe insulation.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the application process for Belzona 5871:
1. Surface Preparation
- Brush away any loose contamination and remove dirt, oil, and grease from the surface.
- Degrease the area using Belzona 9111 (Cleaner/Degreaser).
- If necessary, abrade the substrate to create the recommended surface profile.
2. Mixing the Material
- Transfer the entire contents of the Solidifier container into the Base container.
- Mix the two components thoroughly until the material is uniform and free from any streakiness.
3. Application
- Using a short-bristled brush, apply the pipe insulation coating, Belzona 5871 directly to the prepared surface.
- Once the correct film thickness is achieved, do not overwork the applied product. Constantly move on to new areas, maintaining the wet edge. Revisiting areas previously applied may compromise the pipe coating’s integrity and hinder foam growth during cure.
- Apply Belzona 5871 without interruption to ensure foam growth is not hampered during cure.
- When working with multiple mixes, apply each mix in defined sections, working up to but not overlapping existing material.
4. Spray Application (Optional)
- For suitable areas, you may also apply the pipe insulation solution, Belzona 5871 using a Belzona Cartridge Spray Gun.
- Spray the product directly onto the surface immediately after mixing, ensuring no interruptions that could hamper foam growth during the curing process.
5. Curing
- Allow the product to cure as per the recommended guidelines in the Instructions for Use (IFU).
For more detailed guidance, please refer to the Instructions for Use (IFU).
The Results of the Pipe Insulation Coating, Belzona 5871
Since the application of Belzona 5871, the customer has reported excellent results. The pipes have maintained their insulation values, and there have been no signs of bird or insect damage. This success demonstrates the value of selecting the right protective pipe insulation coating for the environment and operating conditions, ensuring long-term durability and peace of mind.
Digital Content Creator, Belzona Inc., Miami, Florida
