EPDM Closed-Cell Elastomeric Insulation Benefits

How Aeroflex USA delivers more value to projects

Aeroflex USA’s AEROFLEX® brand of closed-cell elastomeric insulation may look similar to other flexible elastomeric pipe insulation products, however its performance makes it a true standout.

A breakthrough formulation of EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is the key to Aeroflex’s value-added performance. This highly-engineered formula delivers a higher level of durability and thermal stability that can’t be matched by NBR/PVC (Nitrile Butadiene Rubber/Polyvinyl Chloride) closed cell elastomeric insulation.

EPDM synthetic rubber is commonly found in motor vehicles, powersports, and industrial equipment, due to its durability and resistance to heat, moisture, and solar radiation, for components such as hoses, gaskets, weatherstripping, wiper blades, and more.

These advantages give way to a host of benefits to building owners, mechanical engineers, and mechanical insulation contractors.

WHY AEROFLEX?

Efficient condensation control at standard costs

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Stable, reliable thermal performance

AEROFLEX EPDM^™-based elastomers possess a low density, closed-cell structure that is filled with nitrogen gas. This provides a very stable low thermal conductivity (k-value) of 0.23-0.25 BTU in/ft2 hr.F at 32°F to 75°F mean temperature. Lower k-values translate into reduced insulation thicknesses.

Its closed-cell structure and built-in vapor retarder do not allow moisture to “wick” into the insulation body, like open-cell fibrous insulation types, preventing a loss of thermal insulating effectiveness.

Longer lasting, better looking installations

AEROFLEX EPDM^™ simply does not degrade as quickly as NBR/PVC elastomeric installation, as third-party testing demonstrates in this white paper: Chemical Polarity and Its Impact on the Performance of Elastomeric Foam Insulation.

AEROFLEX EPDM^™ maintains greater UV resistance than NBR/PVC and will degrade at a slower rate. Supplemental UV and mechanical protection are always recommended for exterior applications to maximize the life cycle of the insulation system.

Broad application capability

A wide range of sizes and thicknesses across all AEROFLEX^® products make it possible to insulate pipes (small and large), pumps, flanges, valves, ductwork, tanks, and vessels. A wide range of standard operating temperatures ranging from –297°F to 257°F (-183°C to 125°C) meet the requirements of a wide range of demanding heating and cooling applications such as VRF/VRV.

Proven fire safety performance

Thanks to the work and research of the world’s leading polymer experts, AEROFLEX^® closed-cell elastomeric insulation products have been engineered to meet or exceed international fire standards, including ASTM E84, UL 723, CAN/ULC-S102, (25/50) and ASTM D635 (self-extinguishing), up to 2” [50 mm] thick.