Heat Gain Chart Wet vs. Dry Insulation - Cold Service

This chart demonstrates the energy inefficiency of allowing insulation systems in cold service to become and/or stay wet or frozen.  A closed cell insulation system is represented since the heat gain (energy wastage) is less then open cell systems. As a result, this chart represents a conservative projection of energy was for a wet or frozen cold service insulation system.

The chart is based on two scientific design criteria:

ASTM 680 which is the test method and mathematical model for industry accepted insulation energy tools such as the 3E PLUS computer program developed by the North American Insulation Manufactures Association (NIAMA); and insulation condition level criteria developed by the E. I DuPont Company/

Author: Michael Lettich of MJL Consulting

Note 1: allows comparisons for linear foot or square foot since 1 linear foot of 4” Sch 40 Carbon Steel pipe is approximately equal to 1 square foot.