Wall insulation from the inside with polyethylene foam. Obtaining and main areas of application of foamed polyethylene

Winter temperatures in the vast majority of Russian regions leave no chance for pipelines to remain intact without reliable thermal insulation. Foamed polyethylene pipe insulation is an excellent way to protect utilities from low temperatures, and when used on heating mains, to prevent unjustified heat loss.

This material is inexpensive, it is easy to install, lightweight, produced in a wide variety of sizes, and has a number of other important advantages. It makes sense to get to know him better - he will definitely find application in any household.

Applications for polyethylene foam insulation

Foamed polyethylene for pipes is widely used for sewer pipes and those laid underground, across the street or passing through insufficiently well-heated rooms. The presence of insulation ensures that the transported coolant, water or sewage will not freeze in winter at low temperatures.

Due to the fact that all pipes produced for household utilities are made of materials with high thermal conductivity, such as steel, fiberglass and polymers, their freezing occurs quite quickly. Therefore, their insulation is simply necessary.

The liquid in non-insulated pipes, when freezing and turning into a solid state of aggregation, is not only capable of creating a plug in the channel, which will slow down or completely stop the flow. Everything can be much worse - the expansion of ice has such a potential of "power" that even thick metal walls do not withstand - they crack or burst.

Most accidents on central pipelines occur precisely because of insufficient thermal insulation. Therefore, taking into account other people's mistakes, it is not worth saving on this material, so as not to pay a much larger amount to restore damaged or even completely failed systems.

Highways laid in trenches dug in the ground are usually mounted below the freezing level of the soil. However, pipelines for hot water supply and heating, carried out in this way, also require effective thermal insulation, which will prevent heat loss of the transported coolant or hot water, which allows them to maintain their temperature as much as possible at all stages of delivery to the consumer. For the same purpose and in a similar way, the supply and return pipes in the boiler room are insulated if it is located in a separate unheated room, as well as in the areas of their passage through other "cold" rooms.

Almost all materials used for thermal insulation also have soundproofing qualities, so they are often used to suppress the noise that water produces when passing through pipes in residential premises.

A heater is also needed for pipes of air conditioning and cold water supply systems. In these cases, it is intended to prevent the abundant formation of condensate, which may appear due to temperature differences between pipes and air, which will inevitably lead to premature wear of the system or the destruction of connecting nodes. The heat-insulating material levels out this phenomenon, extending the period of trouble-free operation not only of the pipes themselves, but also of the devices to which they are connected.

Basic requirements for heat-insulating materials for pipes

In order for the insulation to be effective, and the money to purchase it was not spent in vain, the heat-insulating material must meet certain requirements:

• Low thermal conductivity insulation - the lower this indicator, the thinner the layer of material will be required. This factor becomes important in cases where it is required to insulate an already installed pipeline, or there is a need to save on this purchase.
• Hydrophobicity of the heat insulator. This quality cannot be underestimated, since the insulation must not only protect the pipeline from freezing, but also from moisture, so that the metal does not corrode. In addition, if the insulating material is moistened, then its thermal insulation abilities will sharply decrease.
• Resistance to mechanical and atmospheric influences- these qualities are necessary both for passing along the street and for those buried in the ground.
• Heat resistance of the material- a property that is especially necessary for pipelines of heating and hot water supply systems. That is, the material should not “float” when heated in the region of 100 degrees and should not become brittle in the cold.

All these qualities and has foamed polyethylene.

What is polyethylene foam?

General concepts of polyethylene foam

Any foamed polyethylene, whether it is a heater for the floor, walls or other surfaces of the house or a heat insulator for pipes, is made using the same technology, however, the material may have different density and thickness. Pipe heaters, unlike those produced for flat surfaces, are made in the form of cylinders of different diameters, which greatly facilitates their installation.

The technology for the production of this material consists in foaming the polyethylene melt with hydrocarbons, resulting in an elastic elastic web, which has a bubbly structure with closed cells. In the process of foaming under the influence of high temperatures, polyethylene increases in size by almost 20 times, and then the finished mixture, cooling, is passed through an extruder, where it is given a certain shape.

Polyethylene foam is produced in the form of sheets rolled into rolls, shells (cylinders) and bundles. The material is divided into two types according to the method of manufacture - crosslinked and non-crosslinked.

• uncrosslinked materials are designated as NPE and are obtained by foaming polyethylene with a mixture of propane-butane or permitted freons. Under pressure in the extruder, the raw material is melted and mixed with the reagent (propane-butane mixture). At the outlet of the extruder, the pressure decreases, the gas expands the polyethylene, resulting in gas-filled bubbles. At the exit from the apparatus, the finished material cools and hardens, retaining the shape given to it by the extruder nozzles.

This type of material differs from the cross-linked one in lower density and strength, less pronounced resistance to aggressive chemical influences. In appearance, it can be identified by larger cells, and when compressed, the material makes a crack and no longer takes its original shape.

• Cross-linked polyethylene foams (PE-X) obtained in two ways - radiation and chemical. Such materials are called cross-linked because, under a certain external influence, in polyethylene molecules, in addition to their characteristic linear chains, cross-links are formed - this is “cross-linking”.

Chemical method the formation of the crosslinked material occurs under high pressure. Polyethylene with the addition of antioxidants and a reaction initiator undergoes melting under the influence of high temperatures. Then, in the molten state, the raw materials are “crosslinked”. The initiators of the formation of cross-links at high temperature decompose, and radicals appear, which take away one hydrogen atom from polyethylene. As a result, unsaturated carbon radicals are formed in their place, which combine to form a spatial structure.

radiation method Cross-linking of macromolecules is carried out under the influence of directed energy beams.

Cross-linked polyethylenes are stronger, more elastic and have a higher density. After applying and removing the deforming load, the compressed material quickly returns to its original state. This property of cross-linked polyethylene - the presence of a kind of "memory" of the original volume or linear size, is widely used in many areas of the economy.

Thermal insulation for pipes is produced in the form of cylinders, usually up to 2000 mm long, or pipes sold in coils, and the diameter and wall thickness vary. For example, the thickness can be 6, 9, 13, 20 and 32 mm, and the inner diameter of cylinders intended for domestic needs is from 6 to 200 mm, while for industrial applications, the indicators can be even larger.

In order for the thermal insulation to “work” properly, the inner diameter of the polyethylene cylinders must match the outer diameter of the pipes being insulated. Therefore, manufacturers, knowing this, manufacture products with standard parameters, focusing on the range of water and sewer pipes produced. Insulation cylinders along their entire length have an even cut, often also equipped with an adhesive layer, which allows them to be installed on an already mounted one without resorting to dismantling.

For insulation of pipelines that are directly exposed to ultraviolet rays, polyethylene foam tubes are produced with a special color polymer coating that provides the necessary protection to the heat insulator.

Cylinders for pipe insulation can also have a foil coating, which prevents the material from overheating or overcooling.

It should be noted that if it is necessary to insulate complex pipeline structures or pipes of large diameter, roll material can also be used. They wrap water conduits of any diameter in one or several layers and fasten them with special tape.

In addition to heat insulators for pipes, sleeves are also produced for cable systems. This type of material has a fine-mesh structure, therefore it is also able to perform the function of a waterproofing agent, which makes the material almost universal. It is especially important to use this type of insulation for overhead cable lines, which are under the influence of various natural factors all year round - these are temperature changes, moisture, ultraviolet rays, ice, wind, etc.

Prices for polyethylene foam

polyethylene foam

The main technical and operational characteristics of foamed polyethylene insulation

The assortment of building stores includes pipe insulation made of different materials - these are mineral wool, polystyrene foam, polyurethane foam and polyethylene foam. In terms of the combination of affordability and the effectiveness of thermal insulation, polyethylene foam, apparently, is in the lead.

The performance indicators of polyethylene foam from different manufacturers may vary slightly, but their average performance can be estimated:

• For example, such a parameter as density can be 20 ÷ 45 for non-crosslinked polyethylene foam, and 25 ÷ 200 kg / m³ for cross-linked polyethylene foam.
• The thermal conductivity coefficient is usually in the range from 0.037 to a maximum of 0.040 W / m × ° K, that is, at the level of most modern high-quality heaters.
• The combustibility group, according to GOST 30244-94, for a non-crosslinked material can be G2-G4, and for a cross-linked material it can be G1-G4. If thermal insulation of open pipelines is carried out, that is, those that will not be buried in the ground, then it is recommended to choose a heater with G1÷G2, which means low-flammable and self-extinguishing.
• The moisture absorption of foamed polyethylene is 0.2% for non-crosslinked polyethylene, and 0.9÷1.1% by volume for crosslinked polyethylene.
• The vapor permeability coefficient is the same for both types of insulation - 1.8 mg / m × h × Pa.
• The service life for PES is 25 years, and for PES - 80÷100 years.
• The ability to maintain shape: in LPE - medium or low, in PES - pronounced high.
• Sound absorption is 16 dB.
• Dynamic modulus of elasticity - 0.78 MPa.
• The operating temperature range of the material is from -60 to +90 degrees. If the temperature exceeds the set threshold, the material may deform. That is, it cannot be used for steam heating systems.

The ignition temperature of high-quality polyethylene foam with direct exposure to fire is 300 degrees, and during combustion, the material does not emit toxic substances that adversely affect human health, as it decomposes into carbon dioxide CO 2 and water H 2 O.

Advantages and disadvantages of polyethylene foam insulation for pipes

Compared with other pipe heaters, polyethylene cylindrical bundles have a number of significant advantages, which include the following qualities:

• The thermal conductivity coefficient is not higher, and often even lower than that of other heat insulators, which allows you to reliably protect the pipeline from the most severe frosts - it is enough to choose the right thickness and density of the insulation.
• Safety for humans and the environment. Polyethylene foam does not emit toxic substances harmful to the human body even under the influence of high temperatures. This quality does not limit the use of this material in children's and medical institutions, on production lines of the food industry and in other similar areas.
• Chemical resistance. The material is inert to various mortars, to alkaline and acidic environments, so it can be safely used for thermal insulation of pipes laid in the ground or passing through the foundation.
• The moisture resistance of the insulation also allows it to be used when deepening pipelines.
• Resistance to biological influences. No microorganisms take root in polyethylene foam, which guarantees its safety from decomposition.
• A high level of sound absorption allows you to make the water supply system of a private house almost silent.
• The ability to recover after compression contributes to the preservation of the shape of the cylinder, as well as its thermal insulation qualities after such deforming effects.
• Resistance to low temperatures. The material does not lose its elasticity and elasticity even at a temperature of -60 degrees.
• The affordable cost of the material allows it to be used to insulate the pipeline along its entire length. Polyethylene foam will cost almost half as much as insulation made of expanded polystyrene, mineral wool or polyurethane foam.
• Convenient and easy installation of the material. Pipe insulation does not require special tools and assistants. You can do the work yourself without much effort.

If you plan to use this material for insulation, then you need to know not only about its positive qualities, but also about its disadvantages. Although there are not very many of them, they can be significant.

• Increased flammability. The material is strictly forbidden to be used in rooms to which particularly high requirements for fire safety are imposed. Although high-quality polyethylene foam belongs to moderately combustible materials, however, it is unable to withstand fire for a long time and can ignite, and in addition, it supports combustion and, in a molten fluid form, can itself become a flame spreader.

• UV resistance. If polyethylene foam is planned to be used to insulate pipes passing along the street, then products with a protective coating should be chosen, otherwise, under the influence of sunlight, the material will begin to lose its qualities.
• Low mechanical strength. Foamed polyethylene can be easily damaged by sharp objects, and from a small damage, such a gap can disperse further along the pipe. Therefore, if there is a slight accidental damage, then it must immediately be sealed with special adhesive tape.

Features of work on pipe insulation

Polyethylene foam insulation is quite simply installed on a pipeline of any complexity. As a rule, this process is carried out after the installation of the pipes of the system is completed, since the insulation will interfere with docking. For this, many manufacturers provide cuts on heat-insulating cylinders. However, whole heaters are also sold, they are easy to cut along the entire length on their own using a regular clerical knife with a replaceable blade. A self-cut cylinder, put on a pipe, will have to be fixed in one place, fastened on top with tape for pipes.

Before installing the heat insulator on the pipeline, it will be necessary to carry out simple preparatory measures:

• The surface of the pipe must be cleaned of mortar and dirt, as the insulation must fit snugly against it.
• When insulating metal pipes, they are pre-cleaned of rust.

When the preparatory work is completed, you can proceed with the installation of thermal insulation. For gluing foamed polyethylene along the cut, as well as at the beginning and end of the sleeve to the pipe, the following brands of glue are used: QUICK-BOND, 88-NP, Akrol contact, Neoprene 2136.

"Neoprene 2136" is produced in the form of a spray, so working with it is very accurate and fast. The joints between two separate insulation sleeves are additionally fastened with adhesive tape, which was mentioned above.

However, it should be noted that gluing thermal insulation with glue along the entire length is not done so often, usually only in cases where the pipeline passing along the street is insulated.

Usually, a simple connection of its edges and fixation with adhesive tape is sufficient, the main thing is that the inner diameter of the sleeves is ideally matched to the size of the pipe. Well, if the end edge has a self-adhesive coating, then everything is generally simplified - the protective film is removed, and then the cut is securely glued along the entire length.

When using glue, the joint after joining the edges can be clamped with brackets in increments of about 200 mm, until the glue dries (time indicated on the package). Then the staples are removed and the seam is taped. The next sleeve is mounted in the same way.

Video: animated installation instructions for Thermaflex pipe insulation

Prices for thermal insulation for pipes

thermal insulation for pipes

Manufacturers of heat insulators for pipes

In building stores, insulation materials for pipes are mainly of domestic manufacturers, but it should be noted that Russian products have a very decent high quality and a more affordable price than imported products, so there is not much point in chasing some brands.

Thus, the most popular manufacturers of these materials are Energoflex and Termokom. The first company produces heaters, the material of which includes waterproofing additives, and the second pays more attention to ensuring the safety of pipes. Energoflex products differ from other heat insulators in that freon is used in their production, while other manufacturers produce polyethylene foam using a propane-butane mixture. Due to freon, the material acquires a higher resistance to water vapor.

The cost of polyethylene foam insulation varies depending on its density, thickness and diameter, as well as on the method of its manufacture. It is clear that the range of prices, based on the foregoing, is very large - from 10 to 200 rubles per linear meter.

In conclusion, it must be added that foam polyethylene pipe insulation will be an ideal solution if it is used in acceptable operating conditions for it, that is, it does not require increased fire safety measures. In the other cases listed above, the material will last for many years, without deformation and loss of heat-insulating qualities.

Video: thermal insulation of a complex section of the pipeline with heaters with Energoflex sleeves

Foamed polyethylene is a modern material with excellent performance properties. It is widely used in construction: insulation of walls, floors, facades, ceilings, insulation of residential and industrial communications. The production of this material was established recently. In a short period, he has successfully established himself in industry and in everyday life. The high popularity is due to the fact that the thermal conductivity of foamed polyethylene is low, and the service life reaches 25 years.

Elastic polymer insulation is made of high pressure polyethylene. Fire extinguishing additives are added to the main component, due to which the material becomes fire resistant, and other elements. The production technology consists of several stages. First, the granules fall into a special container and are melted. Then liquefied gas is fed into the chamber. It is a foaming agent, with the help of which the structure of the future product is formed.

The form of release of products can be different: plates, sheets, rolls, tubular casings, bundles. In this case, the material has a different density, thickness and dimensions. Also, the insulation can be covered (on one or both sides) with aluminum foil, which effectively reflects heat. Foam polyethylene foil does not contain toxic substances and is used for insulation of residential and industrial buildings, air ducts, refrigerators, ventilation systems.

Foiled polyethylene foam reflects 97% of heat energy

The unique material has significant advantages:

• high coefficient of thermal insulation;
• resistance to water absorption - excellent hygroscopicity is due to the absence of open-pore cells. This property is very much appreciated, because the appearance of mold, fungus is prevented;
• firmness and elasticity;
• environmental Safety;
• good oil and petrol resistance;
• excellent sound insulation - with the help of the material noise is reduced. That is why polyethylene foam is used as a substrate when laying floors in apartment buildings;
• chemical resistance to building materials - this means lime, cement;
• ease of installation - the material does not need additional fastening. If necessary, people can use it on their own;
• durability - physical and mechanical properties are preserved over a long period.

This is important to know: polyethylene foam with an adhesive layer is used to insulate complex surfaces that have bends, corners, and drops.

Metallized polyethylene foam tape has an adhesive layer for easy installation

Polyethylene foam - the ideal underlay for floor coverings

The best material used as a substrate for a parquet board, laminate, linoleum is polyethylene foam. Such products are manufactured at a number of Russian and foreign enterprises. The most common brands include:

• Isokom is polyethylene foam in rolls, produced on innovative equipment. Employees of the Russian company closely monitor the quality at all stages of the production of products. The material does not rot, has been used for decades and isolates noise well. The "Isocom" substrate does not allow moisture to pass through and is easy to install;
• "Teploflex" is a new generation insulation that does not contain substances hazardous to health. Due to the structure and elasticity, the substrate is easy to install. In order for the material to fully fulfill its functions, it must be laid according to the rules: adjacent canvases lie end-to-end, and the edges are fastened with reinforced tape;

The Teploflex substrate has a small thickness, but at the same time it provides maximum thermal resistance

• "Quick-Step" is a material that meets European standards. It is designed to dampen unwanted noise with maximum efficiency. Floor insulation with Quick-Step polyethylene foam is a great solution because the underlays have been successfully tested for the absence of any harmful substances. Such material is actively used in offices and apartments. The Belgian manufacturer offers to the attention of buyers a collection of heaters that meet the specific requirements of any surface (cement floor, shield flooring);
• "Germaflex" is a synthetic gas-filled substrate with excellent physical, mechanical and acoustic properties. The material is recommended for use in a wide temperature range. It is laid "butt to joint", and to create a complete hydro- and vapor barrier, the seams are glued with adhesive tape.

Foamed polyethylene - an excellent insulation for walls and roofs

The development of the chemical industry and the need for high-quality materials gave impetus to the development of qualitatively new polymeric materials. Foamed rolled polyethylene is a popular product that occupies a leading position in the market of heaters. Ease of production, reasonable cost, reliability and practicality are the main criteria due to which the material has gained immense popularity.

What heaters have earned the trust of consumers? Foamed polyethylene "Aflex" can be called a good material. It is made from polymers, flame retardants, fire extinguishing additives and dyes. The material is produced in the form of rolls of different lengths and widths. The thermal conductivity coefficient of the insulation is 0.045 W / m, density - 35 kg / cu. m, operating temperature range - from -50 to + 90 degrees.

Polyethylene foam of this brand is characterized by many advantages:

• increased elasticity;
• excellent shock-absorbing properties;
• resistance to decay;
• environmental friendliness;
• light weight;
• chemical resistance to aggressive substances.

Polyethylene foam "Aflex" isolates the outer walls of buildings, interior wall partitions, under-roof space. The technology for laying insulation is simple:

• the material is attached to a wooden crate using a stapler. You can also use small nails with wide hats;
• joints are glued with aluminum tape;

Seams are sealed with tape 50 mm wide

• an air gap (1.5 cm) is left between the finishing material and the insulation.

Master's advice: many people are interested in the question of how polyethylene foam can be glued. If the base is concrete or brick, it is necessary to use glue "88".

Using Aflex insulation, homeowners provide themselves with comfort and silence. Foamed polyethylene creates a reliable waterproofing, protects the structure from the influence of moisture, and prevents the appearance of mold. If the main goal is to save money on heating, you need to use sheet foamed polyethylene with double-sided metallization.

Pipe insulation - another area of ​​application for polyethylene foam

Pipe shells made of polymeric material with closed cells are not afraid of temperature changes and do not rot. Basically, they are covered with foil, metallized film and lavsan. Hollow cylinders have notches, which greatly simplifies the installation process. Thermal insulation of pipes made of polyethylene foam is becoming more and more in demand, since the material eliminates a lot of problems: condensate, rust, fungus. Noises are also “quenched” and the loss of beneficial heat is prevented.

Hollow shells have a calibrated bore

What brands are on the market? The materials of the following brands are in good demand:

1. "Termocom" - insulation from this manufacturer extends the life of the pipes and has excellent technical performance.
2. "Energoflex" - heat-insulating products of the highest quality. During their manufacture, a propane-butane mixture is used, and not freon. Pipe shells have low moisture permeability and have a high coefficient of resistance to water vapor diffusion. With the help of such materials, hot / cold water supply, ventilation and air conditioning, heating systems are isolated.

This is important to know: the release form in bays simplifies warehousing and reduces the cost of transportation logistics.

A few words need to be said about the fact that polyethylene foam is also made in the form of bundles. Such material is used to seal interpanel seams or joints when installing windows and doors. Solid cylindrical tows have a finely porous internal structure, due to which they show excellent characteristics of strength and flexibility.

Polyethylene foam harnesses are multifunctional and easy to use

Foamed polyethylene is used as a heater in various fields. And although the installation of insulation is simple, it is better to entrust this process to professionals. They do their job well and don't make mistakes.

Video: installation of reflective wall insulation Penoterm

Polyethylene has long been very popular and is well known to each of us in the form of a transparent film. Who would have thought that the same material could be used as a reliable. It has unique properties, but at the same time its price is affordable, which allows this material to become more widespread. How did he conquer the domestic user, and what are the most important bases for choosing foamed polyethylene?

Foamed polyethylene was first obtained more than 50 years ago, it is already well known in many European countries and America. The unique properties of this material allowed it to conquer domestic users as well. It is made on the basis of ordinary polyethylene, and as a result, many separate closed pores are formed, giving polyethylene foam unique heat, noise and waterproofing properties.

Advantages and disadvantages of polyethylene foam

This heat and sound insulating material is unique in the totality of its properties. The list of its advantages includes:

The only problem of this material is its ability to ignite quickly, but this property can also be reduced to almost nothing with the addition of fire retardants, special substances that make the material more resistant to high temperatures and prevent ignition.

Types of polyethylene foam

Today, several types of this material are produced, which allows you to choose the best option for each specific case.

So, in the production of this heat and sound insulator, high or low pressure polyethylene. The finished material may have a slightly different structure:

• foamy;
• cellular;
• porous.

Depending on the scope of use, the material can be produced in different forms:

But most often foamed polyethylene, depending on the molecular structure, is divided into uncrosslinked and crosslinked.

The largest manufacturers on the market in Russia

The best benchmark in terms of product quality is the name of the manufacturer. So who can you trust?

1. - a large German company, which, among other things, produces thermal insulation based on polyethylene foam. It is sold under the brand name Tubolit in almost all countries of the world. Products have become synonymous with the highest quality, as the technology of its manufacture is constantly being improved, numerous studies are being carried out, equipment is being updated, and the range is expanding so that the materials are as efficient and convenient as possible to use. All this allows the company to occupy a leading position in the world.
2. Odeflex is a Turkish manufacturer that offers polyethylene foam in tubes and rolls. A few years ago, the products of this company were widely represented on the domestic market, but now they are being increasingly replaced by national manufacturers.
3. OOO "Stroytekhizolyatsiya" is a company located in Belarus and actively exporting its products to the Russian market. The range includes tubes of different thicknesses and diameters, designed for thermal insulation of pipelines, air conditioning systems, industrial systems. They are sold under the name Steinoflex 400 and have a longitudinal section that facilitates the installation process. Also available is Steinophon 290, a universal thermal and acoustic insulation material, which is supplied in the form of mats of different thicknesses without coating, or foiled on one or both sides.
4. Bilaveri is a large Ukrainian manufacturer of foamed polyethylene. The range includes roll material, with or without foil coating, pipe insulation and sealing straps. The company values ​​its reputation, therefore it produces only the highest quality products, confirmed by numerous certificates. The manufacturer is widely known in the Ukrainian market and begins to conquer the CIS countries.
5. Euroisolation Plus LLC is a domestic company that has been known in the polyethylene foam market since 2008. The products are known under the trademark "Euroisolation" and are produced on the most modern equipment using new technologies that are constantly being improved. The quality of manufactured products is supported by relevant documentation, incl. certificate of conformity and sanitary-epidemiological conclusion. The range includes polyethylene foam mats, pipe insulation, self-adhesive insulation, underfloor heating underlay, foil insulation.
6. is the largest Russian manufacturer of heat-insulating materials made of polyethylene foam. The company is located in Voronezh, has been operating since 2006, and distributes its products throughout the country and to neighboring countries. The manufacturer is constantly trying to improve the production technology and expand the range of products, so now its products are represented by a huge range of substrates and reflective insulation to mats and bundles.
7. JSC "Izhevsk Plastics Plant" is a company founded in 1985. At the beginning of this century, the production of foamed polyethylene was mastered: it is produced both in a crosslinked and non-crosslinked way, and the range of products is constantly expanding.
8. LLC "ETIOL"- a company that was formed in 1991 on the site of JSC "Polymersintez". It is engaged in the processing of plastics, and recently began the production of foamed polyethylene, which is already actively used in various fields throughout the country.

Kirill Sysoev

Calloused hands do not know boredom!

Content

Polyethylene products are widely used in construction and industry. One of the most popular is polyethylene foam - a sheet insulator, in the form of pipes or plates, a few millimeters of which will replace centimeters of any other materials. It is produced in the form of cross-linked (PPE) and non-cross-linked (NPE) foam, but always has increased insulating characteristics.

What is polyethylene foam

This material is a product that has undergone a special treatment with hydrocarbons. It is foamed during the production process and a group of materials with a porous structure is obtained, which is called polyethylene foam. Manufacturing takes place in a variety of ways. VPE is produced in several forms and with different coatings, including self-adhesive and metallized ones. The material is used as:

• insulator against steam, heat and noise;
• noise insulator for military equipment, in the automotive industry;
• sealant for individual elements;
• shaping agent for sports equipment;
• auxiliary means for the transport of goods;
• packaging material.

Characteristics

An ideal means of isolation has incorporated useful physical and chemical properties. The characteristics of foamed polyethylene are a set of useful qualities that the base material has, the elastic additives that make up its composition, and light foamed substances. If the product is manufactured in accordance with GOST, it has:

• strength and elasticity at temperatures from -60 °С to +102 °С;
• water absorption 1-3.5%;
• specific heat capacity 0.038-0.039 W / m * K;
• resistance to chemical environments;
• low thermal conductivity;
• vapor permeability coefficient - 0.01 mg (m * h * Pa);
• does not deteriorate and does not rot in the natural environment;
• absorbs sounds;
• service life up to 100 years;
• non-toxic;
• convenient to operate.

Polyethylene foam insulation

Keeping warm and protecting from freezing is a function that polyethylene foam does very well. It is made from:

• Laminate insulation. It is produced in the form of a polyethylene film. Maximum thickness 60 mm. Rolls reach 1 meter in width.
• Pipe insulation, plain or foil. Are issued in pieces of different thickness. Foiling can be one-sided or two-sided.
• Rolls and mats. This is the same product, only the size differs. Foamed polyethylene insulation of this type is used for walls, heating systems, plumbing. The thickness reaches up to 1 meter.
• Harnesses, ribbons. They are thick ropes that fill the gaps.

Foamed polyethylene pipe insulation

Energoflex produces foamed insulation for covering pipes for various purposes. Products can be used inside and outside. It performs well as a heat and sound insulator:

• model name: Energoflex Ø22 x 9;
• price: 23 rubles;
• characteristics: material - foil isolon, length - 2 meters, insulation thickness - 9 mm;
• pluses: durable and reliable;
• cons: not found.

When it is necessary to lay insulation in several layers, Energoflex Super is the most suitable material. It is highly durable and protects from external influences:

• model name: Energoflex Super 18/9;
• price: 22 rubles;
• characteristics: designed for multilayer insulation, diameter - 18 mm, tube thickness - 9 mm;
• pluses: high rate of wear resistance to chemical influences;
• cons: not found.

Another thermal insulation for polyethylene foam pipes from the same manufacturer Energoflex Super Protect. It protects pipe systems that are located inside floors and walls:

• model name: Energoflex Super Protect-Blue 15/4;
• price: 17 rubles;
• characteristics: without technical notch, low combustible;
• pluses: covered with a special base, which increases the strength of the product;
• cons: not found.

Foamed polyethylene foil

If you need reflective insulation, Tepofol thermal insulation material can be used. It protects against all types of heat loss:

• model name: NPE A-10 foil;
• price: 1,175 rubles;
• characteristics: length - 15 meters, width - 1.2 meters, thickness - 10 mm; weight - 6 kg;
• pluses: high thermal reflection (up to 97%);
• cons: not found.

Another polyethylene foam with foil from a Russian manufacturer is Maksizol. It is made from a material with a non-crosslinked molecular structure:

• model name: Maksizol AL-08;
• price: 57 rubles;
• characteristics: thickness - 8 mm, width - 1.2 m;
• pluses: small thickness with high heat transfer;
• cons: not found.

Thin, flexible and environmentally friendly foil polyethylene foam Penofol can be used in the construction of buildings. Due to the minimum thickness, it provides effective thermal insulation without reducing the volume of the room:

• price: 1,518 rubles;
• characteristics: length - 15 meters, width - 1.2 m, thickness - 10 mm;
• pluses: it has a closed system of bubbles, due to which it is a good barrier to steam;
• cons: only for internal use.

Foamed polyethylene in rolls

The Russian network of companies "Trading network Penofol" produces high-quality foamed polyethylene foam. It is an environmentally friendly product and reliably protects the room from steam, temperature extremes, and radiation. There are several types with different markings:

• model name: Penofol A-10;
• price: 1,518 rubles;
• characteristics: roll - 18 m2, combustibility G1, thermal conductivity 0.049 W / (m ° C), length - 15000 mm, width - 1200 mm, thickness - 10 mm;
• pluses: environmental safety;
• cons: not found.

Another type of product from this manufacturer is suitable for those who need double insulation. Penofol B is covered with foil on both sides:

• model name: Penofol B;
• price: 2,299.96 rubles;
• characteristics: dimensions - 1.2x30 m, 36 m2, foil thickness - 14 microns;
• pluses: bilateral isolation;
• cons: not found.

The next foam film is different in that it is covered with foil on one side and glue is applied on the other. It is convenient to cover the walls with self-adhesive material:

• model name: Penofol 10.0;
• price: 1 945 rubles;
• characteristics: material - foil isolon, used for walls;
• pluses: self-adhesive film;
• cons: not found.

Polyethylene foam mats

The Russian company Isokom produces foamed polyethylene mats. They are used for insulation and insulation. Suitable for roofs, basements, sidewalks and blind areas. They insulate structures located in the ground:

• model name: Isocom M 50;
• price: 4,000 rubles;
• characteristics: size - 50x1000x2000 mm, 10 sq. m, produced by thermal bonding of layers, form - sandwich panel;
• pluses: provides protection for places where increased insulation is needed;
• cons: not found.

Izolon material performs well as soundproof gaskets. It can be used outdoors and indoors, but must be protected from sunlight:

• model name: Izolon-block 100;
• price: 1 350 rubles;
• characteristics: sheet dimensions - 0.95x0.95 m, thickness - 100 mm;
• pluses: allows you to level surfaces;
• cons: not found.

Modern insulation material is compression mats. They are mainly used for large pipelines, serve for heat and sound insulation:

• model name: Compression mat 15;
• price: 237 rubles;
• characteristics: length - 2 m, width - 1 m, thickness - 15 mm;
• pluses: can serve as a shock-absorbing layer;
• cons: not found.

Polyethylene foam rope

In construction and repair work, such a thing as a polyethylene foam tourniquet is often used. The model from Penoterm has good protective characteristics and durability:

• model name: Porilex NPE 20*3;
• price: 2 223 rubles;
• characteristics: the package contains 450 meters; diameter - 20 mm, length - 3 meters; used to isolate joints and seams;
• pluses: reliably protects from moisture and steam;
• cons: not found.

Another analogue of the same manufacturer is suitable for seams in window and door openings, masonry work. This product is environmentally friendly and durable:

• model name: Porilex NPE 50*3;
• price: 4009 rubles;
• characteristics: packaging - 180 meters, diameter - 50 mm, length - 3 meters;
• pluses: suitable for seams;
• cons: not found.

The Vilaterm brand offers much larger diameter cords that are suitable for indoor and outdoor use:

• model name: Vilaterm;
• price: 54 rubles;
• characteristics: length - 3000 mm, diameter - 60 mm, color - white;
• pluses: creates excellent protection from wind;
• cons: not found.

How to choose polyethylene foam

To choose the right polyethylene foam, you need to proceed from the area in which it is planned to be used. If you have to insulate the premises from the inside, choose foil products. Double foiling is suitable for attics and mansards. Rolls that are easy to lay under laminate and other types of floor coverings will help to make the floor warmer. Especially for underfloor heating, products with markings are produced. For heating and sewerage systems, it is better to buy foamed polyethylene in pipes, shells. Doors and windows are insulated with bundles.

Foamed polyethylene or polyethylene foam (PPE) is a porous polymeric material obtained by introducing a hydrocarbon into the structure of polyethylene.

Products made of polyethylene foam are light, plastic, have very low thermal conductivity and vapor permeability. Are issued in rolls, sheets or in the form of finished products.

Universal material is widely used in various fields:

• construction - for sound, heat, vapor barrier and protection of structures, pipelines, engineering systems and structures;

Figure 1. Rolled polyethylene foam insulation.

• medicine - for the manufacture of various orthopedic products;
• mechanical engineering - as sealants, vibration protection, noise and heat insulation;
• tourism and sports - for the manufacture of mats, tourist rugs, life jackets, gloves and punching bags for boxing, protective and enclosing devices.

Figure 2. Polyethylene foam products.

Various packaging, all kinds of anti-deformation liners and gaskets for storage and transportation of household appliances, food products and various industrial products are made from PPE.

Types of polyethylene foam

Currently, a large amount of polyethylene foam is produced, which is divided into three main types:

1. Non-crosslinked polyethylene foam (NPE) made by saturating propane and butane in a polymer mass melted in an extruder. In the process of pouring, under the influence of atmospheric pressure, gas bubbles freeze to form structural cells. The material has a low density and loose large pores. It is easily deformed, after the termination of mechanical influences it almost does not restore its original shape. Despite the high thermal insulation qualities, the material is mainly used to create packaging.

Figure 3. Uncrosslinked PES.

1. Chemically crosslinked polyethylene foam (CPE) is created similarly to non-crosslinked polyethylene foam. In addition, during its production, hydrogen peroxide is introduced into the molten mixture along with gases. Under the influence of a chemical reaction, small cells with a strong and dense structure are formed. The resulting material is able to restore its original shape after the cessation of mechanical action.

Figure 4. Cross-linked PES.

1. Cross-linked polyethylene foam, foamed by radiation or physical method (FPPE) acquires softness and elasticity, consists of small cells and has a smooth surface. Able to withstand high mechanical loads and pressures up to 0.035 MPa. It is made by exposing the molten polyethylene mass to an electron beam emitted by a powerful emitter. The resulting cross-links strengthen the material at the molecular level. Due to its high elasticity and ability to recover its shape immediately after removal of loads, it is ideally suited as floor underlays, as well as for floating floors.

FPPE is the most expensive and high-quality foamed polyethylene.

Important! When choosing products from polyethylene foam, it is necessary to take into account the characteristics of the material, choosing it in accordance with the scope and operating conditions.

Properties and specifications

Despite different manufacturing technologies, the common properties of foamed polyethylene are:

• high moisture resistance;
• resistance to solvents, acids and alkalis;
• a light weight;
• resistance to microorganisms, mold and fungi.

Table 1. Comparison of the characteristics of different types of polyethylene foam

Figure 5. Visual differences between uncrosslinked (top) and crosslinked (bottom) PES.

In many respects, cross-linked polyethylene is superior to its non-crosslinked counterpart:

1. Cross-linked PPE absorbs sounds better, thanks to a denser porous structure, ideal for soundproofing rooms.
2. Due to its good compressive strength and ability to recover from deformations, cross-linked polyethylene is widely used for floor insulation. Non-crosslinked polyethylene is not suitable for these purposes due to its high creasability and inability to recover after unloading.
3. The high thermal insulation properties of cross-linked polyethylene make it a more effective heat insulator. When using non-crosslinked PPE as a heater, 30% more material will be required.
4. Good heat resistance allows it to be used in places with high operating temperatures, as well as behind heating devices.

Important! The main advantage of non-crosslinked polyethylene is its affordable cost.

Advantages and disadvantages

One of the main advantages of polyethylene foam is environmental friendliness and compliance with hygienic requirements and sanitary standards.

In terms of safety, polyethylene foam has practically no equal among other polymeric materials.

Foamed polyethylene is able to pass water vapor, so that the products in such containers do not rot or become moldy.

New modern manufacturing methods, special additives and catalysts make polyethylene foam practically non-combustible and heat-resistant.

An important property of the material is resistance to aggressive substances and atmospheric influences, which is especially important for external insulation work and insulation of building facades. A protective foil or film coating helps to increase UV resistance and protect against moisture ingress under the insulation.

Figure 6. Insulation of facades with foamed foil PPE.

The high dielectric properties of PPE make it possible to use self-extinguishing PPE as cable insulation.

Figure 7. Insulation of high-frequency PES cables.

Lightness, elasticity and elasticity make it easy to mount the insulation on any curved surfaces, engineering structures and pipelines.

This is practically the most durable artificial material, with a decay period of over 200 years. This fact is both its advantage and disadvantage, since due to the complexity of its disposal, a huge mass of polyethylene waste accumulates, which is a real disaster for the earth's ecology.

The disadvantage of foamed polyethylene is its low resistance to compression, which does not allow the material to be used for insulating horizontal surfaces subject to mechanical stress.

Important! When heated above 120 degrees, the material releases harmful and toxic substances.

Scope and products made of PPE

Foamed polyethylene is available in various modifications:

Foil polyethylene foam

It is a material of chemically cross-linked PPE, metallized with aluminum foil by thermal welding. From the outside, the surface of the foil can be polished for better thermal reflection or covered with a polyethylene film to protect against mechanical damage.

The foil is vapor tight and able to reflect more than 90% of the heat. In addition, the foil surface prevents water from entering through the insulation.

Various variants of foil-wrapped polyethylene foam are produced:

1. Single layer foil. The material is wrapped or glued onto the insulated base with a foil layer outward.

Figure 8. Polyethylene foam with one-sided foil.

1. One-sided foiling with film lamination increases the strength of the coating, protecting it from mechanical damage.
2. Double-sided foiling is great for insulating interior partitions and walls. It is equally effective in any direction of heat or noise flows.

Figure 9. PES with double-sided foiling.

1. With an adhesive layer applied to the PPE on one side. Advanced material, covered with aluminum foil on one side and glue on the other. Does not require additional purchase of glue.
2. Foil polyethylene foam with air and steam perforation. Most suitable for pipe insulation, as well as internal structures of residential buildings.

Foiled polyethylene foam is the most effective type of insulation, capable of simultaneously inhibiting heat transfer and reflecting thermal radiation.

TOP 3 best products according to buyers

Shells for pipes

Shells for pipes of various diameters. For convenience, the insulation of mounted pipes is produced with cuts along the shells, or without cuts. Uncut shells are provided with perforations along the intended cuts.

Figure 10. Polyethylene foam shells.

They are produced with outer diameter from 6 to 114 mm, shell thickness from 6 to 25 mm.

Pipelines for heating, cold and hot water supply, ventilation and air conditioning are insulated with shells.

Compensation mats

They are made by gluing sheets of polyethylene foam under the influence of high temperatures. They are supplied in the form of sheets with dimensions of 1000x2000 millimeters, with a thickness of ten to one hundred millimeters.

Figure 11. PPE mats.

Harnesses

They are cylindrical seals with diameters from 6 to 120 millimeters. Thin bundles with a diameter of up to 12 millimeters are intended for the installation of expansion joints in concrete floors, bundles from 12 to 20 millimeters are used to seal gaps between door and window frames. Thicker bundles fill the joints between the panels of houses made of precast concrete.

Figure 12. Polyethylene foam bundles.

Substrate

It is made from cross-linked polyethylene foam and is used as an intermediate gasket between concrete screeds and laminate flooring.

It is supplied in rolls up to three meters wide, with a web thickness of two to five millimeters.

Figure 13. PPE floor underlay.

Package

PE foam for packaging is usually produced from non-crosslinked PPE and is supplied in rolls, finished products or bags of various sizes.

Packing products made of PPE absorb shocks, reduce vibrations, and protect against mechanical damage during transportation. To increase strength and enhance heat-shielding properties, packaging materials are covered with foil, kraft paper, nylon or polyethylene film.

PPE packaging is widely used for the transportation of household appliances, electrical appliances, dishes, furniture, shoes.

Figure 14. Non-crosslinked PPE packaging.

Features of choice

When choosing polyethylene foam, consider the individual characteristics of various types of PPE and the features of its application:

• When insulating structures from the inside, the minimum thickness is of great importance, which does not take up the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe premises.

Figure 15. Insulation of ceilings and walls with polyethylene foam from the inside.

• For floor insulation, it is better to use cross-linked polyethylene foam in the form of expansion mats that can withstand loads without loss of insulating qualities and deformations.
• When insulating with foil polyethylene foam, the metallized layer should be directed towards the flow of heat and light: when insulating facades - outward, when insulating internal walls and ceilings - inward.
• Sheets and webs of PPE should be fastened end-to-end, without gaps and gaps. Joints for reliability must be glued with metallized tape.
• To prevent the formation of condensation on the surface of the foamed polyethylene, it is necessary to create a layer, about two centimeters thick, between the insulation and the finishing panels.

Important! The main feature of foamed polyethylene is its high thermal insulation properties. PPE insulation with a thickness of 10 millimeters in terms of thermal insulation qualities corresponds to 150 millimeters of brickwork, or 50 millimeters of mineral wool.

Brands and prices

About 200 thousand tons of various types of polyethylene foam are produced annually in different countries.

A large number of PES are supplied to Russia from Europe, America and China.

The most famous brands of foreign manufacturers: Alveo, EPECorporationGroup, Air, Odeflex, Tubolit, Pactiv, DOV.

Since the beginning of the 2000s, a large number of products and materials made of polyethylene foam have been produced in Russia. The most popular domestic brands: Penofol, Izolon, Polyfom, Topofol, Energoflex, Termoflex, Porileks, Vilaterm.

Figure 16. Foil PPE PENOFOL.

Such brands are indicators of quality, reliability and safety.

The cost of polyethylene foam consists of various factors:

• material production technologies: uncrosslinked, or in some way crosslinked;
• the presence or absence of additional metallized or adhesive coatings, perforations or lamination;
• complexity of finished products, packages or forms.

The inexpensive price of foamed polyethylene, combined with high technical and operational qualities, makes this material particularly attractive for use in various purposes.