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Introduction to the Seven Major Uses of Rubber and Plastic Insulation Materials
2025-11-21       Source:

Rubber and plastic insulation materials are closed-cell flexible thermal insulation materials made from rubber and plastic as the base material through a foaming process. They feature low thermal conductivity, good flexibility, low water absorption, and easy construction, making them widely used in HVAC, industrial piping, building construction, and refrigeration equipment. Depending on the model and thickness, rubber and plastic insulation can adapt to various temperature ranges and equipment structures, making it one of the most widely used flexible insulation materials in engineering projects.


I. Insulation of Chilled Water and Refrigerant Pipes in Air Conditioning


The most typical application of rubber and plastic insulation is the insulation of chilled water pipes, condensate pipes, and refrigerant pipes in central air conditioning systems. Its closed-cell structure effectively reduces cold loss, lowers the risk of condensation on the external walls, and improves the operating efficiency of the air conditioning system. Because of its softness and flexibility, it is suitable for various elbows, joints, and installation requirements in confined spaces.


Rubber and Plastic Sheets


II. External Insulation of HVAC Ducts


In ventilation and air conditioning systems, rubber and plastic insulation is used for the external insulation of metal ducts, especially cold air ducts. Rubber and plastic insulation reduces heat exchange during air transport, lowering the risk of condensation on duct surfaces. Its lightweight nature reduces ceiling load, making it suitable for new projects and retrofitting existing systems.


III. Insulation for Hot and Cold Water Pipes and Water Supply Systems


Rubber and plastic insulation materials are commonly used in domestic hot water pipes and hot and cold water systems in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. It helps maintain stable water temperature, improves pipe energy efficiency, and reduces the impact of ambient temperature on water temperature. Rubber and plastic have some adaptability to humid environments, making them suitable for pipe insulation in areas such as bathrooms and basements.



Rubber and Plastic Pipes


IV. Insulation for Refrigeration Equipment and Cold Storage Systems


In low-temperature environments such as refrigeration units, cold storage pipes, and refrigeration equipment, rubber and plastic insulation materials have low water absorption and good flexibility, reducing condensation and low-temperature loss. It maintains structural stability during equipment operation and is commonly used for insulation of compressor units, evaporator connecting pipes, and refrigerant systems.


V. Industrial Pipeline and Equipment Insulation


Rubber and plastic insulation is also suitable for industrial pipelines operating at low to medium temperatures, such as water pipes, hot air ducts, and some process pipelines in chemical plants, food factories, and pharmaceutical production workshops. Its lightweight and easy-to-install characteristics reduce construction difficulty and improve the overall insulation effect of the pipeline. For locations with high requirements for environmental cleanliness (such as food processing), the rubber and plastic surface is easier to maintain.


VI. Machine Room Equipment and Water Pump Pipeline Insulation


Rubber and plastic insulation is commonly used as the insulation layer for water pumps, pipes, and fan coil unit connections in machine rooms. The material is flexible and can be cut to fit complex equipment interfaces and various pipe diameters, while maintaining good thermal insulation performance and reducing condensation and noise interference.


Aluminum Foil Rubber and Plastic Sheets


VII. Applications in Residential Air Conditioning and Home Decoration


In home decoration, rubber and plastic insulation is often used for the insulation of copper pipes and condensate pipes in split air conditioners. It can reduce refrigerant energy consumption and prevent water dripping from pipes from affecting the ceiling or walls. Its installation is convenient, requiring no additional base treatment, making it suitable for quick on-site construction by home decoration workers.