Aluminum foil insulation
Thread Content
Currently, galvanized iron sheet is commonly used for insulation enclosures in China. However, since galvanized iron sheet is not corrosion-resistant, its surface loses its luster after some time. Especially in refining companies that process high-sulfur oil, the corrosion is more severe. Abroad, aluminum sheets are generally used because they are more corrosion-resistant than galvanized iron sheets. However, aluminum sheets are rarely used for insulation in China – I’m not sure why
In coastal areas such as South China, aluminum sheet is commonly used as the outer protective layer for equipment and pipelines, while in inland areas galvanized steel sheet is mostly used for this purpose； I guess it’s due to factors related to perception and price :) Additionally, aluminum sheets are not as widely used as galvanized sheets; in some applications their use is prohibited, such as in tank containers and equipment used for storing EO. Let’s discuss together!
This post was last edited by ms3210 on 2009-10-13 at 10:33. Yes, I’m in Hangzhou; usually aluminum sheets are used for the outer covering, while galvanized iron sheets are rarely used, and only a few still use stainless steel plates.
These days, aluminum is used by many people, and the use of stainless steel is also gradually increasing.
Our unit uses aluminum sheeting for insulation; its advantages include better corrosion resistance and a longer service life. It is also easier to restore the shape of aluminum sheeting after it is bent during maintenance, whereas galvanized iron sheeting usually has to be discarded after being bent. The price of aluminum sheeting is not much higher than that of galvanized iron sheeting, and although the initial investment is slightly greater, it is more cost-effective in the long run. Additionally, when such materials are finally discarded, there is almost no residue left from galvanized iron sheeting, while aluminum sheeting has a relatively high recycling value.
The syrup storage tanks and syrup transport tanks manufactured by our company (those mounted on vehicles or tractors) are of food-grade quality; therefore, their outer insulation panels are made of δ1 304 stainless steel. Of course, the insulation for the steam pipes is made of galvanized iron sheeting. In fact, the choice of insulation material should be determined on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the relationship between investment and benefits.
Since the price of aluminum sheet is higher than that of galvanized iron sheet, galvanized iron sheet is preferred for projects with high cost requirements. Aluminum sheet has better corrosion resistance than galvanized iron sheet, but its strength is lower; therefore, it needs to be thicker than galvanized iron sheet when used.
Our tank areas and heat exchange equipment are fitted with stainless steel insulation panels, while the steam pipes are made of galvanized iron sheeting. It is mainly for considerations of aesthetics, durability, and ease of maintenance. But from an investment perspective, using galvanized iron sheet for insulation is not attractive nor durable in harsh external conditions; when removed for maintenance, it essentially becomes waste. Be more strict in project management – savings can be made everywhere.
Generally, the galvanized iron sheet used for insulation is 0.5 mm thick; is the aluminum sheet used for insulation also 0.5 mm thick? Will 0.3mm thickness work?
Aluminum sheet has insufficient strength and is prone to weathering. I am using color-coated steel sheets now, and Baosteel materials have been specified. Truly great! It’s cheaper than aluminum foil!
I use 0.5mm aluminum sheet throughout; aluminum is more resistant to corrosion, making it suitable for outer panels. Galvanized iron sheet is prone to corrosion, so aluminum panels are used for storage tanks.