MTTC Proposes Improved Insulation for the Navy
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SpeedWrap
keeps pipes and fittings insulated and accessible for inspection. MTTC is evaluating the
viability of this commercial product for Navy fleet use. |
March
7, 2001; Louisville, Kentucky: The U.S. Navy is required to routinely inspect a variety of valves,
flanges and other pipe features to ensure safe operation. The Navy has estimated that
there are currently approximately 1850 items each on 250 ships that require these regular
inspections. In order to observe the pipe feature, it is necessary to remove any lagging
and insulation, conduct the inspection and then restore the pipe to its original
configuration. Currently, coverings in these inspection areas are comprised of insulation
held in place with lacing wire and eye-hooks. New wire must be used after each operation.
The time for removal and re-installation of the insulation can easily surpass that of the
inspection itself.
MTTC has
proposed a commercial pipe wrapping, called SpeedWrapÓ, which is available on the open market. It is
available in various diameters and shapes to conform to a large number of pipe features.
The wrap's open seam is joined by special high-temperature VelcroÓ strips so that it can
be used in most Navy applications.
This
project, in conjunction with NAVSEA and BBN, Inc., will involve the installation of a
number of SpeedWrapÓ sections on a fleet ship and observation of its performance over
a period of time. Upon completion of shipboard testing, the test samples will be subjected
to lab testing to confirm their post-test viability. A decision on fleetwide use will be
made after test results are analyzed.
Other Navy Projects
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