At Piping Technology and Products, we recommend multiple insulation layers for cold shoe supports that have a total insulation thickness of four inches or greater.
In the field, cold shoes are typically mated with existing line insulation. Due to the low operating temperature of the pipe, moisture from the ambient air can migrate through gaps that may exist between the cold shoe and the line insulation. At lower temperatures, where thicker insulation is required, there is greater opportunity for moisture infiltration. This is because of the increased single mating surface area between the line insulation and the cold shoe.
To mitigate this issue, a multi-layer insulation approach is recommended between the line insulation and the pipe support. By introducing multiple mating surfaces between the line insulation and the pipe support, the stepped configuration created by layered insulation improves the overall moisture seal and reduces the likelihood of moisture reaching the pipe.
To determine the thickness of each layer, refer to our suggested layering chart on the following page. To use this table, reference the total insulation thickness to determine how many layers are suggested and how thick each layer should be.
Example: A four inch (4″) pipe that requires five inches of insulation: Referring to PT&P’s suggested layering chart, two layers are required. The first layer (inner layer) thickness is suggested to be 2″ and the second layer (the outer layer) is suggested to be 2″ thick.
Piping Technology & Products can customize insulation layering systems to meet specific project requirements. The provided layering chart should be used as a general guideline, with final designs tailored to each application.
