Ecotherm

Problem: The current Calcium Silicate insulation, while tough and effective, is heavy and very difficult to install, remove and modify. Sailors and shipbuilders alike detest working with CaSi.

Solution: MTTC, in conjunction with the Navy and BBNT, Inc., conducted extensive shipboard testing on USS BOXER (LHD-4) of a commercially available insulation called ECOTHERM. It proved effective and durable in its advertised temperature range of 250º - 1000ºF.

Benefits

Estimated Navy Cost Avoidance:

Minimum annual:       $1,250 K

Minimum 15 Year:   $18,750 K

Fleet Impact: Sailors and shipyard workers will be able to install and replace pipe insulation with nothing more than a knife and tape. Clean-up is quick and simple. The use of this material will substantially reduce shipbuilding costs.

Status: Complete

All tests and at-sea evaluations have been completed. The final report has been issued. NAVSEA is currently reviewing the test results in order to make an approval decision. It is expected to be approved with the exception of low, horizontal piping runs which make up a very small percentage of the overall population.

Applications:

All shipboard piping with temperatures in the  250º - 1000ºF range.