Low-Temperature Equipment and Expanded Perlite
Low-temperature equipment and materials such as refrigerators, air conditioners and chillers, often require special insulation materials to maintain a constant temperature. Expanded perlite is a unique material that is regularly used for this purpose. It is a lightweight, inert volcanic glass with exceptional temperature controlling abilities that make it particularly suitable for industrial uses where extreme temperatures are common.
Expanded perlite is produced from perlite ore, a naturally occurring volcanic glass which has a high water content. When the ore is heated to temperatures of 1600-1800°F (870-980°C), the glassy material fractures and expands, forming a diverse range of particles with a unique cellular structure. The resulting material is lightweight, highly insulating, and able to hold up to 30 times its weight in moisture, making it a popular choice for insulation applications.
In low-temperature equipment, perlite is uniquely capable of providing excellent temperature control. The material’s low thermal conductivity helps minimize energy loss while maintaining a constant temperature. Additionally, the material’s significant moisture-holding capacity helps keep refrigeration units at optimal performance, even under extreme conditions. Other benefits of using perlite in low-temperature equipment include its resistance to chemicals, thermal shock, and fire.
In addition to providing effective thermal insulation, expanded perlite also offers acoustic insulation benefits. Expanded perlite particles have an innate capacity to absorb sound and dampen shock, making them ideal for soundproofing and vibration control. Low-temperature industrial environments often require both thermal and acoustic insulation, so expanded perlite is the perfect material for the job.
The mechanical and structural properties of expanded perlite make it an ideal material for many types of insulation applications. The unique cellular structure of the material means that it is light yet strong and capable of withstanding pressure and vibration. The material’s low moisture content and resistance to most chemicals also make it ideal for use in wet and hostile industrial environments.
Expanded perlite is an incredibly versatile insulation material that is used in numerous industrial and commercial applications. Low-temperature equipment is often the most demanding type of application, as it requires both rigorous insulation and the ability to maintain constant temperatures even in extreme conditions. Thanks to its unique thermal, acoustic, and structural properties, expanded perlite is the perfect material for the job.
