HVAC / VRF / CHILLED WATER / FIBER-FREE DUCT INSULATION

Whether you need to insulate refrigerant, VRF (variable refrigerant flow), VRV (variable refrigerant volume), chilled water piping, HVAC equipment, chillers, tanks, vessels, or ducts (wrap or liner), AEROFLEX® has you covered. 

AEROFLEX EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) pipe, equipment, and duct insulation is available in preformed unslit tubes, labor-saving factory-split tubes (Self-Seal), sheets, rolls (with or without a PSA), and factory-fabricated AeroFit fittings, Aerofix® insulated pipe hanger supports, AEROFLEX® adhesives, zero-perm EPDM Protape® and Aerocoat® UV-protective coatings, all designed to conserve energy, control condensation, prevent corrosion under insulation, reduce the potential for mold growth and attenuate HVAC background noise.

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VRF/VRV systems continue to experience rapid growth in demand and are designed to operate at service temperature from below 32°F (0°F) to +248°F (120°C). System manufacturers require a continuous service temperature of insulation rated for at least +248°F (120°C). AEROFLEX EPDM is the only domestically-manufactured flexible closed-cell elastomeric foam insulation with an upper continuous service temperature of 257°F (125°C) with availability in IDs as small as ¼” and thicknesses up to 2”.

While cellular glass is commonly specified for chilled water applications, AEROFLEX® flexible closed-cell elastomeric foam is more frequently considered due to its inherent ability to control condensation with its closed cell structure and built-in vapor retarder, lightweight, flexibility, low thermal-k, competitive water vapor permeability, and material cost (no separate fabrication step in the supply chain).

For duct wrap and duct liner applications, AEROFLEX® sheet & roll insulation can attenuate lower frequency HVAC noise (250 - 750 Hz) due to closed cell structure and density when compared to open-cell fibrous duct insulation. Additionally, it’s always fiber-free, microbial-resistant and Indoor Advantage Gold Certified for low chemical emissions. AEROFLEX sheet & roll insulation is also available with a factory-applied pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) for tenacious bonds to clean sheet metal while saving labor when compared to wet-applied contact adhesives.

AEROFLEX EPDM closed-cell elastomeric foam rubber insulation is a proven choice for improved efficiency, design, and more. When properly installed, you can count on the following performance benefits:

  • Upper continuous service temperature of 257°F (125°C)
  • Lower continuous service temperature of -297°F (-183°C)
  • Closed-cell structure with built-in vapor retarder that effectively controls condensation
  • Protection against pipe corrosion for favorable life cycle costs
  • Safe for stainless steel piping; does not cause external stress corrosion cracking (ESCC)
  • Natural mold resistance, which means longer-lasting materials and reduced health risks to building occupants; no added biocides
  • Naturally UV-resistant (condensers & rooftops) for enhanced durability and longevity
  • Self-Seal pre-formed tubes in ID’s ranging from ⅜” to 16” IPS
  • Available in pipe sizes as small as ¼” and wall thicknesses up to 2” thick 
  • EPDM zero-perm tape (Protape®) to seal and protect glued seams from water vapor drive
  • Passes ASTM E84 UL 723, CAN/ULC-S102 25/50 flame/smoke standard up to 2” (50 mm) thick for increased fire protection
  • Meets national (ASHRAE 90.1, IECC, IgCC) and state energy codes (CA Title 24)
  • Made in the USA with global materials, so your material selection supports jobs and our local/national economy


Whether you need to insulate small or large piping, fittings, valves, couplers, pumps, equipment, tanks, vessels, or ductwork, we’re here to help you select the right HVAC, refrigerant, VRF, VRV, chilled water, or duct insulation system for your application.

Benefits:

Effectively retards heat gain/loss and prevents condensation
Non-corrosive on stainless steel piping
Fiber-free for healthier indoor environments
Naturally microbial resistant
Non-polar – does not react with water
Naturally UV-resistant for long-lasting service
Prevents corrosion under insulation (CUI)
Fire safety – Passes ASTM E 84 25/50 up to 2” (50 mm) thick
Built-in vapor retarder eliminates the need for jacketing in typical applications
Complimentary components like Aerofix® insulated pipe supports, EPDM tapes, factory fabricated fittings and adhesives provide an airtight hermetic seal throughout the insulated system
Low-emitting material: Indoor Advantage Gold[TM} Certified
Can contribute to LEED®
Attenuates HVAC noise at lower frequencies

Applications:

Duct Insulation (wrap), indoor and outdoor
HVAC chilled water, refrigeration & limited cryogenic piping
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) piping
HVAC equipment, including pumps, air handlers, expansion tanks, etc.
Temperature range: -297°F (-183°C) to 257°F (125°C)

Why nonpolar EPDM elevates insulation performance

Aeroflex USA's AEROFLEX® brand of insulation products are unique among other closed-cell elastomeric foams in that they are classified “nonpolar.” EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is a nonpolar compound and the basis for all AEROFLEX® insulation.

Polarity is a function of the electrical charge across a molecular structure. When a material is classified as “nonpolar,” it means that the electrical charges are evenly distributed across each molecule. This makes the molecules more stable, especially when exposed to water.  As a result, AEROFLEX® insulation degrades at a slower rate than other closed-cell elastomeric brands, especially when exposed to moisture, sunlight, ozone and a wide range of temperatures.

Because AEROFLEX EPDM insulation is hydrophobic, meaning that it does not react with water, it is inherently microbial-resistant and lasts longer, providing owners with a more favorable product life-cycle assessment and cost than other closed-cell elastomeric foam insulations.

For a more detailed explanation please refer to our white paper: Chemical Polarity and Its Impact on the Performance of Elastomeric Foam Insulation