In cryogenic engineering, liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage and transportation systems, and cryogenic pipeline insulation, LNG elastic felt has gradually become one of the commonly used cryogenic insulation materials due to its excellent flexible structure and stable low-temperature adaptability. Compared with traditional rigid insulation materials, LNG elastic felt has significant advantages in structural design, construction adaptability, and operational reliability. This article will systematically analyze the flexible structural characteristics of LNG elastic felt from the perspectives of material structure, source of flexibility, performance characteristics, and engineering applications.

I. What is LNG Elastic Felt?

LNG elastic felt is a cryogenic insulation material with an inorganic fiber-based, multi-layered composite structure, mainly used in the insulation systems of LNG storage tanks, cryogenic pipelines, cold boxes, and cryogenic equipment. Its core characteristic lies in the material's inherent good flexibility, which allows it to maintain structural stability and resist brittleness in extremely low-temperature environments.

II. Basic Structural Components of LNG Resilient Felt

Structurally, LNG resilient felt typically consists of the following parts:

1. Fiber Substrate Layer

Mainly composed of ultrafine inorganic fibers, arranged in a three-dimensional interlaced pattern to form a stable and elastic spatial structure.

2. Flexible Reinforcement Structure

By rationally controlling the fiber length, diameter, and arrangement, the material maintains its continuity under pressure, bending, or displacement.

3. Surface Composite Layer (Optional)

Some LNG resilient felts are composited with a moisture-proof layer or reinforced surface to improve moisture resistance and construction durability.

This multi-layered structure provides the fundamental support for its flexible performance.

III. Formation Principle of the Flexible Structure of LNG Resilient Felt

1. Elastic Support Role of the Fiber Network

2. Non-Rigid Bonding Method

Compared to rigid insulation boards, LNG resilient felt employs a more flexible bonding method during molding, giving the material good overall resilience rather than rigid constraint.

3. Structural Stability at Low Temperatures

Under extremely low temperatures, many materials are prone to embrittlement, while the fiber structure of LNG elastic felt retains a certain degree of ductility. This is a significant advantage of its flexible structure under low-temperature conditions.

IV. Performance Advantages of the Flexible Structure of LNG Elastic Felt

1. Excellent Adhesion

Due to its soft and flexible nature, LNG elastic felt can tightly adhere to the surfaces of pipes, elbows, and irregularly shaped equipment, reducing gaps and thus mitigating the risk of cold bridging.

2. Strong Resistance to Displacement and Vibration

In LNG storage and transportation systems, equipment experiences significant thermal expansion and contraction. The flexible structure of the elastic felt can absorb some displacement changes, preventing the insulation layer from cracking due to rigid constraints.

3. Greater Construction Adaptability

The flexible structure makes LNG elastic felt easier to cut and lay during on-site construction, making it particularly suitable for complex cryogenic pipeline systems.

V. Impact of Flexible Structure on Cryogenic Insulation Performance

The flexible structure of LNG elastic felt does not weaken its insulation capacity; on the contrary, it is beneficial to the stable operation of cryogenic insulation systems to a certain extent:

Still air layers between fibers effectively inhibit heat conduction.

High structural integrity helps maintain the designed thermal conductivity over a long period.

Reducing performance degradation due to structural damage.

Therefore, in LNG cryogenic conditions, flexible structure and insulation performance are not contradictory but synergistic.

VI. Typical Application Scenarios of LNG Elastic Felt

Based on its flexible structural characteristics, LNG elastic felt is widely used in the following fields:

LNG storage tanks and cryogenic pipeline insulation

External insulation systems for cryogenic equipment

LNG receiving terminals and liquefaction plants

Cryogenic process pipelines and valves

In these scenarios, the material needs to simultaneously cope with low temperatures, displacement, and complex structures, where the advantages of flexible structure are particularly evident.

In summary, the flexible structural characteristics of LNG elastic felt stem from its fiber network design and non-rigid molding method, enabling the material to maintain good fit, stability, and construction adaptability even in extremely low temperature environments. This flexible structure not only improves the reliability of engineering applications, but also provides a more robust solution for LNG cryogenic insulation systems.