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Detailed Engineering Applications of Elastic Felt, a Cryogenic Insulation Material for LNG
2025-11-20       Source:

LNG elastic felt is a flexible insulation material specifically designed for cryogenic environments, typically made of glass fiber, aerogel, or composite inorganic fibers. Its core advantages lie in its low thermal conductivity, high flexibility, and strong resistance to temperature shocks. It can maintain a stable structure in environments around -160°C, thus it is widely used in liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage and transportation systems and is one of the key materials in cold energy engineering. Below, we analyze the main applications of LNG elastic felt based on practical engineering needs.


I. Insulation Material for LNG Storage Tanks


When storing cryogenic natural gas, LNG storage tanks require reliable and stable insulation materials to reduce cold loss. LNG elastic felt can tightly adhere to the outer wall of the tank, and is not prone to cracking or detachment even during thermal expansion and contraction of the equipment. Its flexible structure can adapt to curved tank bodies, which helps improve overall sealing and safety.


II. Cryogenic Insulation for LNG Pipelines


In LNG transportation, distribution, or regasification stations, numerous cryogenic pipelines require durable and stable insulation systems. LNG elastic felt can be used to cover special parts such as straight pipes, elbows, and valves. The material is soft, can be cut and shaped, and is suitable for various pipeline structures. It can reduce pipeline cold loss and minimize the stress caused by condensation and temperature differences between the LNG container and the outer wall.


III. Insulation Structures for LNG Ships and Tank Containers


In mobile storage and transportation equipment such as LNG carriers, tank containers, and tank trucks, the requirements for insulation materials are higher due to long-distance transportation and significant environmental changes. LNG elastic felt is lightweight and highly flexible, allowing for continuous coverage in complex structures, helping to maintain stable internal temperatures in storage tanks and reducing energy consumption. It is one of the most common insulation materials for ships and mobile equipment.


IV. Insulation of Equipment in LNG Vaporization Stations and Peak Shaving Stations


In LNG vaporization stations, emergency peak shaving stations, and refueling stations, equipment such as vaporizers, cold boxes, and cryogenic heat exchangers require stable insulation materials to operate effectively. LNG elastic felt exhibits minimal deformation under cryogenic impact and is not easily broken, making it ideal for insulating the outer walls of equipment and improving system operating efficiency.


V. Cold Energy Recovery and Insulation of Cryogenic Process Units


Some chemical and energy companies possess cryogenic storage or cold energy recovery systems, such as air separation units, liquid oxygen and liquid nitrogen storage tanks, and cryogenic experimental equipment. LNG elastic felt is not only suitable for LNG but also for the insulation needs of other cryogenic media, demonstrating strong cross-industry applicability.


VI. Gap Filling and Stress Buffering in Special Locations


Due to its flexibility and compressibility, LNG elastic felt can also be used as a filler material in insulation systems to compensate for gaps between insulation layers, reduce stress concentration, maintain structural stability during equipment thermal cycling, and reduce cold bridging.


VII. Use in conjunction with multi-layer insulation systems


In large-scale LNG projects, multi-layer composite systems are often used for insulation structures. LNG elastic felt can be used in conjunction with materials such as aerogel, foam glass, and polyurethane to form combined insulation structures with lower thermal conductivity, higher flexibility, or higher safety.