Insulation Treatment at Joints of Insulated Steel Pipes: Operation Guidelines

Insulation Treatment at Joints of Insulated Steel Pipes: Operation Guidelines

1. Preparation of Pipe Joint Surface

• Thoroughly clean the joint area to remove dirt, rust, oil, and moisture.

• Inspect and repair any defects on the steel pipe surface before proceeding.

2. Anti-Corrosion Coating at the Joint

• Apply anti-corrosion coating or repair coating on the exposed steel at the joint after cleaning.

• Ensure the coating is fully cured and passes quality checks before insulation.

3. Insulation Layer Installation

• Use insulation materials compatible with the main pipe insulation, typically polyurethane foam or mineral wool.

• For joints, install insulation segments that fit tightly and ensure no gaps or voids exist.

• In some systems, special joint insulation kits or pre-formed insulation collars are used to guarantee uniform insulation thickness.

4. Sealing the Insulation Layer

• Seal the insulation joints with adhesive tapes, sealants, or protective wraps to prevent moisture ingress and maintain thermal performance.

• Use vapor barriers if required to enhance moisture resistance.

5. Outer Protective Jacket at the Joint

• Install an outer protective jacket segment (steel or plastic sleeve) over the insulated joint area.

• Ensure the jacket sections overlap correctly and are tightly secured, often by welding (steel jackets) or heat fusion (plastic jackets).

• Seal all seams and joints to prevent water or contaminants from entering.

6. Quality Inspection

• Perform visual inspections to check for gaps, cracks, or improper sealing.

• Conduct non-destructive testing (e.g., holiday testing for coatings) if applicable.

• Verify that insulation thickness and protection meet project specifications.

Summary

Proper insulation treatment at pipe joints involves careful surface preparation, corrosion protection, precise insulation fitting, thorough sealing, and secure outer jacket installation. This ensures thermal continuity, corrosion resistance, and durability of the insulated pipeline system.