The Importance of Thermal Insulation for Nuclear Plants

Nearly 100 nuclear power plants in the United States produce 20 percent of the energy that’s used in various cities. In the future, the number of plants will grow; according to industry experts, over 30 new nuclear facilities will be built throughout the next few decades. Since power plants generate tons of thermal energy, there will be a huge demand for a ceramic fiber board because it can withstand 1000-degree temperatures.

Key Areas Where Insulation is Needed

In a nuclear power plant, water is boiled in various locations to generate steam. The energy that’s produced during the process spins a turbine engine. Although there are multiple components in a power plant, thermal insulation is usually placed in and around the containment area.

Within a containment area, workers must maintain electrical devices, structural elements, and hydraulic components. Proper insulation is typically installed near the systems and materials in this zone. The containment environment is fairly large, so the nuclear steam that seeps out of the supply system is always contained. A typical containment zone has:

Pipes Valves Pumps

A reactor is also found inside of a containment area. As a result, a lot of heat generates in the busiest locations. This is why workers usually put insulation on various pipes and different components throughout a containment zone.

The containment cooling equipment lowers the temperature as well. At most plants, the cooling components are connected to a water source, such as an ocean, bay, or river. When the equipment is used, it generates vapors, which decrease the temperature in a containment area.

Outside of the containment area, calcium silicate is typically placed on pipes because its strong and durable. It’s a great insulation option for stainless steel pipes since extreme heat doesn’t cause cracking and corrosion. Although calcium silicate is used on nearly 90 percent of pipes, fiberglass products and ceramic materials are gaining popularity.

Nuclear power plants need insulated products because the heat in certain areas can rise to uncomfortable levels. Thanks to ceramic fiber, the process of tackling important tasks in a nuclear facility is never a hassle.