Cryogenic Insulation Solutions
Cryogenic insulation refers to specialized materials and techniques used to insulate systems or equipment that operate at extremely low temperatures, typically below −150°C (−238°F). The systems are essential for maintaining the extremely low temperatures required to store and transport liquefied gases, such as LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas). These materials help prevent heat transfer from the external environment, which could raise the temperature of the system and compromise the storage or handling of cryogenic substances.
The success of the system relies on the quality and longevity of materials used throughout the construction process. Adhesives, sealants, mastics and membranes are often overlooked as a small piece of the insulation system, but in reality, they are a crucial part of the cryogenic system’s overall design. In many cases, the mastic, membrane, and sealant may be the system’s first and last line of defense in protecting it from potential damage.
H.B. Fuller Cryogenic Insulation Solutions
Proven Adhesives, Sealants, Mastics, and Membranes to Enhance the Performance of Cryogenic Insulation Systems
Our products play a crucial role in the design and installation of cryogenic insulation systems, ensuring that insulation materials perform for the long term and that the system remains airtight and resistant to environmental factors, such as moisture or heat intrusion.
Water can cause several issues if allowed to get into an insulation system. The most important property of adhesives, sealants, mastics, and membranes in any cryogenic insulation design is to prevent water (both liquid and vapor) from entering the system which can lead to Corrosion Under Insulation (CUI) over time if left untreated.
We offer a range of products that adhere, seal, coat, protect, and generally enhance the performance of insulation materials and systems. Our products can seal the joints, seams, and gaps between insulation, layers, or sections to prevent air infiltration and moisture intrusion.
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Adhere
Adhesives are used to bond the various components of cryogenic insulation systems. We offer a range of adhesives compatible to variety of insulation types. Our products prevent the failure of the bond or damage to the insulation at cryogenic temperatures.
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Seal
We offer a range of sealants and sealing tapes developed to keep moisture out. Our products are essential to provide additional protection from the damaging effects of water entering the insulation system. Our sealants are flexible to accommodate the severe expansion and contraction commonly found in cryogenic systems. Our products include:
- Joint sealants: Used for sealing joints in the outer layer of insulation.
- Flashing sealants: Used on the exterior of insulation system to seal between mastic/surface and protrusions such as supports, valves and fittings. Also, to seal metal jacketing.
- Vapor stop sealants: Used to prevent moisture migration into the insulation system at an insulation termination and from one section of insulation to an adjacent section. They are applied at critical points within the insulation system where water entry is more likely, such as at pipe supports, valve boxes, flanges, or other areas where access and maintenance may be required, as well as at specified intervals along the piping.
- Butyl sealants and tapes: For the sealing of metal jacketing.
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Coat
We offer a range of coatings, mastics and membranes designed to protect the insulation material. Their strength and flexibility provide a toughness that the insulation surface cannot achieve on its own and provide additional resistance to ultraviolet light, chemical exposure and moisture intrusion:
- Coatings and mastics are liquid applied products that provide a durable barrier layer that enhances the insulation system’s performance and longevity. They are used to seal and protect cryogenic insulation systems from external damage and environmental exposure. They provide physical protection to the insulation material itself by being applied over the insulation and forming an outer protective layer.
- Membranes are supplied in sheet good form and may be used in place of liquid coatings to seal and protect the cryogenic system. They are most commonly made up of an adhesive layer coated onto a specialized polymer/aluminium laminate matrix that forms the outer protective layer for the insulation system.
Foster® and Childers™
Our Foster® and Childers™ branded products provide proven mastics, membranes, adhesives and sealants. For decades, engineers, owners, and contractors have depended on the quality and reliable performance of Foster® insulation accessory products. Our products are trusted industry wide and offer peace of mind that your systems will perform as intended.
Why choose H.B. Fuller for your cryogenic insulation sealing, bonding, and coating needs:
- Moisture and Corrosion Resistance: Protect insulation systems from vapor intrusion, corrosion, and environmental damage.
- Low-temperature flexibility: Remain flexible and maintain bonding strength even at extremely low temperatures to prevent cracking or failure.
- Durability under extreme conditions: Maintain integrity over long periods of time, despite exposure to harsh environments (such as temperature fluctuations, moisture, and mechanical stress).
- Thermal Efficiency: Reduce heat transfer and maintain cryogenic temperatures effectively by keeping the system dry.
- Ease of Application: Simplify installation and maintenance with user-friendly products.
Contact us for more information on how we can help with your next project.
