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MICROTHERM THERMAL INSULATION
NANOTECHNOLOGY WORKING FOR YOU
Microtherm is the leading manufacturer of high performance thermal insulation.
Microtherm thermal insulation eectively minimises the transmission of heat over a large temperature range
from cryogenic temperatures to 1200 C (2192 F).
With a porous structure consisting of minute air cells contained between chains of amorphous silica agglomerates
of particles from 5 25 nm in size, Microtherm is classied as a microporous insulation.
Microtherm has appreciably better thermal performance at high temperatures than other more conventional
insulation products including aerogel blankets. Microtherm performs even better than still air.
This performance advantage extends right down to cryogenic temperatures.
MICROTHERM R&D AND ENGINEERING
Microtherm is the wise choice as partner in developing high performance innovative thermal insulation solutions.
We oer more than 40 years of expertise and the proven skills of our application and engineering teams.
This allows us to design and (co-)develop the best tailor made thermal protection solutions for our customers.
All developments can be supported by transient thermal analysis and performance testing in our in-house
laboratories, including re resistance testing to A and H category re scenarios.
MICROTHERM SERVICE NETWORK
Microtherm operates from a truly global network to serve every industrialised country in the world.
Microtherm has three main sites ideally positioned to serve Europe, Australasia, and the Americas. These sites
are further supported by our Global Partners a network of distributors and agents around the world.
Our headquarters at Sint-Niklaas in Belgium is the base for all of our group technical expertise. Add this to the
competence of our customer service specialists and the result is a level of service and technical support that has
made us market leader.
MICROTHERM THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY
M EA N TEM P ER ATU R E (F)
100
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
0,3
2.0
P E R L I TE
C E LL U L A R G L A S S
1.8
POLYURETHANE
0,25
MINERALWOOL
CERAMIC FIBRE BLANKET
1.6
C A LC I U M S I L I C AT E B L O C K
MINERAL FIBRE BLOCK
0,2
1.4
A E R O GE L B L A N K E T
M I C R O TH E R M S U P E R A
MICROTHERM SUPER G
1.2
MICROTHERM SLIMVAC
0,15
0.8
T H ERMA L CO ND UC T IVI TY (W/ m . K)
0,1
0.6
r
still ai
0.4
0,05
0.2
0
-50
100
200
M EA N TEM P ER A TU R E (C)
300
400
500
600
700
800
T HE RM AL CON DU CT I VI TY (Bt u . in /ft 2 . h r . F)
1.0
MICROTHERM IS A TRULY REMARKABLE
THERMAL INSULATION
Below zero, Microtherm SlimVac is again the best
product available.
The relationship of the thermal conductivity of
Microtherm to the exposure temperature is
almost a straight line with only a very slight increase
as temperatures approach the maximum
continuous exposure temperature of 1000 C
(1832 F). The reason for the very low thermal
conductivity at high temperatures is the presence
in the Microtherm formulation of an opacier
which makes the insulation an almost perfect block
against the passage of infra red radiation.
0,10
The r mal co ndu c t iv it y (W/m.k)
From the chart comparing the thermal conductivity
of a selection of the most widely used insulation
materials, it is immediately obvious that Microtherm
out-performs all other insulation materials from zero
up to 1000 C (1832 F).
Micro therm
A ero sil silica 1 0 0 %
0,09
0,08
0,07
0,06
0,05
0,04
0,03
0,02
0,01
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
Mean temperature ( C )
Normal insulation materials do not have this characteristic.
Another remarkable feature of Microtherm is the dimensional stability at very high temperatures (see page
14). Shrinkage after continuous exposure at maximum temperature can eectively be ignored in almost all
applications.
However, what makes Microtherm really exceptional as a thermal insulation is the fact that it will also give excellent
protection right down to cryogenic temperatures. It quite literally maintains its exceptional performance form the
deep cold of cryogenic temperatures right up to the extreme heat of 1000 C (1832 F).
It is the single solution for all thermal protection problems irrespective of exposure temperature. That is why we
believe that it is the best performing general thermal insulation at all temperatures that you can buy.
Microtherm the most versatile insulation at all temperatures!
Microtherm the best performing insulation from zero to 1000 C (1832 F).
Minimal increase in TC even at maximum operating temperature.
Performs better than still air at all temperatures above zero.
Dimensionally stable over full temperature range.
Excellent performance maintained right down to cryogenic temperatures.
Unaected by thermal shock.
No deterioration with age.
MICROTHERM - COOL ANSWERS TO HOT PROBLEMS
5
MICROTHERM PRODUCTS
HIGH TEMPERATURE PRODUCTS
MICROTHERM RIGID PANELS
Panels
Hydrophobic Panels
MICROTHERM FLEXIBLE PANELS
Quilted & Semi-quilted panel
Hydrophobic quilted panel
Overstitched & Semi-overstitched panel
Aeroguard
Marineguard
Slimex
Slatted panel
Hydrophobic slatted panel
Steelex & Steelex+
MICROTHERM BLOCK PRODUCTS
Block Microtherm Super G, HT & Super A
Hydrophobic Block
Board
Thin Sheet
MICROTHERM MOULDED PRODUCTS
Moulded Pipe Sections (MPS)
MICROTHERM MACHINED PRODUCTS
MICROTHERM POURABLE PRODUCTS
FreeFlow
Chimney Insulation Mintherm
AMBIENT & LOW TEMPERATURE PRODUCTS
MICROTHERM RIGID PANELS
Slimvac
MICROTHERM FLEXIBLE PANELS
Floppy panel
PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION (PFP)PRODUCTS
MICROTHERM RIGID PANELS
Slim&Light
Slim&Light+
MICROTHERM FLEXIBLE PANELS
Quilted & Semi-quilted panel
Overstiched & Semi-overstiched panel
Slimex
Aeroguard
Marineguard
CLOTH COVERINGS
Microtherm use a variety of covering materials for their products
dependent on exposure temperature and conditions of use. These can include
materials such as non-woven polyester where temperature resistance is not
required but the product needs to be dust free and, in some instances,
flexible without damage. For most applications Microtherm uses woven
E-glass cloth coverings. The cloth covering ensures cleanliness and lack
of dust when installing the Microtherm products.
However, at exposure temperatures above 600 oC (1112 oF) the bres of the cloth will
begin to stick together, leading to brittleness and loss of strength on cooling.
Some shrinkage may also be observed leading to splits in the cloth. These eects are
more severe at higher temperatures. E-glass cloth will melt at temperatures exceeding
800 oC (1472 oF). Microtherm oers alternative coverings with higher temperature
resistance for special applications. The main consequence of these thermal changes to the glass cloth is that the strength and
handleability of the insulation tends to revert to what it would have been without the glass cloth covering the insulation
performance is not altered in any way. Since Microtherm insulation is usually held between metal sheets or refractory
materials, deterioration of the glass cloth is normally not an important issue.
For even more demanding applications, Microtherm can be covered in almost any appropriate material.
For higher temperature exposure, a covering of quartz cloth may be used which is capable of withstanding direct
ame impingement.
For most mechanically challenging applications we can even supply Microtherm totally encapsulated in
stainless steel.
PRODUCT
CHARACTERISTICS
PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS
Microtherm insulation
... has a thermal conductivity up to 1000C (1832 oF) which is close to the lowest theoretically possible in any
material. Microtherm Super A can be used up to 1200 oC (2192 oF). Microtherm also gives superb performance down to cryogenic temperatures.
... is resistant to thermal shock.
... is available in a range of densities to suit diverse applications.
... is available in a wide range of (tailor made) complex shapes and forms as well as standard forms ex stock.
... can be encapsulated in heat resistant fabrics and other coatings.
... is non-combustible.
... some products are available in hydrophobic versions.
... is mechanically stable for long periods at maximum operating temperatures.
... can be used in air or other gases at pressures greater than atmospheric.
... is slimmer, lighter and more energy efficient than conventional insulations.
... is simple to use and easy to apply.
... is reliable.
... is made of green materials and environmentally safe with no respirable bres.
... is available in seven principle grades for general applications diering in maximum temperature capability,
thermal conductivity, water resistance, density and ease of machining. Other versions available to meet
specic application requirements.
ISO 9001:2008
Microtherm is a world leader in thermal insulation solutions...
... We are known for our comprehensive product range and for our creative design advice the result of our
relentless commitment to R&D.
... Above all, we are known for the superb quality of our products.
... All design and manufacture is to ISO 9001:2008.
... We believe that we oer a product range and a service that are unique in the insulation industry.
National Physical Laboratory Thermal Conductivity Measurements
on Microtherm Insulation (ISO 8302 and ASTM C 177) .&" /5&.1 &3" 563& '
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
1600
0.08
0.07
0.06
0.40
0.05
0.35
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0.03
0.20
0.15
0.02
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MICROTHERM SUPER A
0.10
MICROTHERM HT
0.01
MICROTHERM G, SUPER G, SUPER G HYDROPHOBI C
0.05
MICROTHERM BOARD
0.00
0
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
800
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Upper temperature limits for Microtherm products
1652F
1832F
1922F
2012F
2102F
2192F
M I C R O T HE R M G
MICROTHERM SUPER G
MICROTHERM SUPER G HYDROPHOBIC
MICROTHERM BOARD
MICROTHERM HT
MICROTHERM STEELFLEX+
MICROTHERM SUPER A
900C
1000C
1050C
1100C
1150C
1200C
When we quote maximum working temperature limits it is on the basis of a controlled level of shrinkage
age under full heat soak conditions.
conditio
ons
ns.
hat although the upper continuous
u s ex
expo
posure
posu
sure
ree llilimit
imit
imit
Normal applications involve single sided heating. Under these conditions we can say that
exposure
ns it may be possible for thee insulation
insu
sula
lati
tion
on to
to wi
with
thst
th
stan
and
an
d a maximum
maxi
ma
ximu
mum
m
for Microtherm Super A is quoted as 1150 C (2102 F), in some situations
withstand
intermittent exposure temperature of 1200 C (2192 F).
m SteelFlex+ which,, u
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The same advice can be given for Microtherm
the
right
conditions,
withstand
2012 F).
temperatures up to 1100 C (2012
p
pecialists
pecialis
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ts ffor
or ffur
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Please contact our specialists
further
the
materials.
OPTIMISE YOUR PROCESS WITH MICROTHERM
EXISTING INSULATION
INCREASE CAPACITY!
75 C
(165 F)
75 C
(165 F)
CERAMIC FIBRE
150 MM
MICROTHERMTM
45 MM
CERAMIC FIBRE
150 MM
980 C
(1800 F)
MICROTHERMTM
45 MM
INTERNAL
MICROTHERMTM
150 MM
75 C
25 C
(165 F)
(75 F)
SAVE SPACE!
Microtherm MPS
SAVE ENERGY!
Calcium Silicate
The unbeatable performance of Microtherm can
result in a number of benefits:
Greatly reduced insulation thickness / volume for
equivalent performance.
Greatly reduced insulation weight.
Faster installation due
ue to reduced quantity of
insulation
tion pieces.
Savings on outer coverings
cove
co
veri
ring
ngs / casings due to size
redu
reduction.
duct
ctio
ion.
Reduction in storage of goods
go s prior
priorr to installation.
pr
prio
iins
nsta
tallllat
atio
ion
n.
Reduction
Reduc
cti
tion
on in
in cost of packaging
packag
gin
ing
g of insulation for
delivery.
d
delive
l very
ry.
Re
Redu
Reduction
duct
du
c io
ct
ion
n in delivery
d
del
eliv
ivery costs due to reduced volume.
vol
o ume.
Cleanerr in
inst
installation
stal
alla
lati
tion
on w
with
ith no h
it
ith
heal
health
lth
h ha
h
hazards.
zards.
Performance comparison of Microtherm and
Calcium Silicate moulded pipe insulation for
equivalent heat ow at 750 oC (1382 oF).
Microtherm is only one quarter the thickness !
1
11
R&D AND ENGINEERING
RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT - ENGINEERING
Microtherm is the leading developer of high performance thermal insulation solutions.
Our Research & Development team is constantly striving to improve further our insulation material and products.
In our in-house laboratory and testing facilities, innovations are examined and analysed carefully before
industrialisation is started.
The extensive know-how of the R&D group is then integrated with the work of our highly experienced and
qualied engineering team.
In close cooperation with our customers we (co-) develop tailor made insulation solutions.
MEASURING THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY ...
Microtherm obtains thermal conductivity measurements by three different procedures:
1. Conventional Guarded Hot Plate equipment complying with ISO 8302 and ASTM C 177
standards is used for all published data. This produces precise data over a wide temperature
range (up to a mean value of 800C (1472 F). Two at panels are tested and the heat ow
between a heated test square and the water cooled outer plates is measured.
2. Microtherm in-house testing facilities. Microtherm has designed testing equipment based
on a cylindrical geometry with a central heat source for routine quality control and product
development.
This cylindrical geometry equipment is particularly suitable for measurements at pressures
greater than atmospheric and in gases other than air.
Various gases can be fed into the outer chamber of our purpose built equipment and multi
point TC curves can be generated.
3. Thermal conductivity measurement of vacuum insulation panels. In the Microtherm materials
laboratory, routine thermal conductivity measurement of SlimVac panels is done on our
FOX 600 machine from Lasercomp.
This machine measures centre panel thermal conductivity and has a thermal guard to
minimise any eects from edge conduction through barrier materials.
Measurements comply with ISO 8301 and ASTM C-518.
13
OPTIMISING DENSITY
The thermal conductivity of microporous insulation is inuenced by its density. Together with IR radiation,
heat is transferred through the insulation either by gaseous conduction (air pockets), or by solid conduction
(particles). Put simply, the higher the density, the more particles, the higher the thermal conductivity.
Also, the lower the density, the more air pockets, the higher the thermal conductivity. By balancing the interaction
between gaseous and the solid conduction, an optimal thermal conductivity value can be found for each of the
Microtherm grades. Microtherm supplies all products at an optimised density for optimised performance.
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RESISTANCE TO COMPRESSION
Microtherm insulation products are normally supplied at the lowest density which can be handled
satisfactorily, consistent with optimum overall performance. When greater resistance to compression is
required, higher densities can be supplied. Depending on the product type, the normal density range is from
200 to 450 kg/m3 (12,5 - 28lb/ft3).
D E N SI T Y ( l b / f t 3 )
Resistance to compression
10
15
20
25
30
35
160
MI CROT H E RM BOARD
140
MI CROT H E RM H T
MI CROT H E RM S UPE R G
120
0.8
MI CROT H E RM G
0.6
MI CROT H E RM S UPE R G H YDROPH O B IC
100
MI CROT H E RM S UPE R A
80
MI CROT H E RM STEELFLEX+
60
0.4
40
0.2
20
0
100
150
D E N S I TY ( k g / m 3 )
200
250
300
350
400
450
500
550
600
RE S IS TA NC E TO CO MP RE SS I ON ( p si )
R E S IS TA NCE TO COM PR E SS IO N (M Pa)
1.2
THE NON-COMBUSTIBILITY OF MICROTHERM
INSULATION PRODUCTS
Microtherm insulation meets the requirements of BS476, DIN4102 and UL94V-0 for non-combustibility. Combustibility of
coverings (eg. glass cloth) may be greater than that of the Microtherm insulation. Specialised applications may require
particular coatings to be applied to the Microtherm insulation.
Microtherm insulation products create excellent re barriers to protect steel, aluminium or composite structures. Fire
performance certicates are available on our website and from our Applications Engineering group. Microtherm
Overstitched Panels have been satisfactorily tested to the European Single Burning Item (SBI) test EN 13823, and have
been classied A1 to EN 13501-1:2002.
Microtherm exible insulation panels used in marine Passive Fire Protection systems are covered by EU and USCG
certication for non-combustibility of the insulation core, and zero spread of ame for the glass cloth covering material.
In-house re
performance
testing
Thermal image of
lift doors during re
resistance test.
ENSURING STABILITY AT MAXIMUM OPERATING
TEMPERATURE
Microtherm insulation can be used for long periods against hot surfaces at maximum operating
temperatures.
Like all insulation materials, a small amount of irreversible lateral shrinkage will occur after sustained exposure
to the maximum rated temperature limit for the material.
Microtherm measures shrinkage according to ASTM C356, BS-EN 1094-6, ISO 2477, and in-house techniques.
These full soak methods in which the material is kept in a high temperature furnace for a period of 12
to 24 hours, and the dimensional changes measured. These methods are more severe than single-sided
shrinkage tests and give a conservative estimate of maximum service temperature.
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