In heavy equipment and manufacturing environments, excessive temperatures and sound can damage instrumentation, reduce machinery’s useful life, make workers physically uncomfortable, and expose them to unsafe conditions. Thermal and acoustic insulation materials reduce or block heat and sound in these settings.

Thermal insulation materials reduce the transfer of heat between objects with different temperatures. Heat transfer can be reduced with materials that conduct, convect, or radiate heat energy.

Acoustic insulation materials reduce noise by absorbing, transmitting, or redirecting sound waves. Some materials can even target specific frequencies.

Here, we’ll look at some of the major benefits of thermal and acoustic insulation, materials that are commonly used, and the solutions and capabilities RubberMill, Inc. has to offer.

Benefits of Thermal and Sound Insulation in Heavy Equipment

Thermal and acoustic insulation has several advantages for heavy equipment and machinery used in industrial and plant settings, including:

  • Operator Protection. High temperatures in an operator’s cabin or radiating from equipment into a work zone can lead to dehydration, fatigue, or burns for personnel. Heat insulation safely transfers heat away from the work area and equipment. Loud noise can be distracting, physically painful to hear, or can prevent an operator from hearing instructions or nearby equipment. These risks are mitigated with acoustic insulation.
  • Increased Employee Productivity. Employees exposed to high temperatures and loud noises are more likely to be uncomfortable, fatigued, and unproductive. High temperatures and noise levels may violate occupational safety standards as well. Appropriate insulation materials contribute to a healthier work environment by lowering employee stress, keeping them comfortable, and making it easier to concentrate on tasks.
  • Preventing Damage to Internal Components. Thermal insulation can prevent damage to sensitive mechanical or electronic instrumentation. Sound insulation reduces ongoing vibration from loud noises that can knock components out of alignment, loosen bolts, and damage tools and equipment over time.
  • Internal Temperature Regulation. In applications with narrow temperature requirements, especially in enclosed environments, thermal insulation can keep temperatures consistent.
  • Fire Protection. Thermal insulation maintains temperature levels to minimize the risk of fires and combustion.
  • Reduced insurance costs. Thermal and acoustic insulation may reduce insurance or workers compensation costs due to heat or noise-related accidents or injuries.

Types of Sound and Thermal Insulation Used for Heavy Machinery Applications

Several types of sound and thermal insulation can be used effectively with heavy machinery. The best material option depends on the requirements of each application. Common materials include:

Polyurethane Foam

Polyurethane foam is lightweight, low-density, and fire-resistant. It can be cut to various shapes and sizes, and can be applied with pressure-sensitive tape. Open or closed-cell versions of this material have different characteristics and effects on heat and noise. Both work well for thermal insulation; but, open-cell foam traps and dissipates sound more effectively than closed-cell foam.

Polyethylene Foam

This is a closed-cell foam that is lightweight, resilient, and resists absorbing water and vapors. It is an effective thermal insulator and can also be used to block sound. It is resistant to chemicals.

Fiberglass Alternatives from RubberMill

RubberMill offers these alternatives to fiberglass insulation:

  • FibraMat™. This highly durable, nonwoven, and nontoxic synthetic fiber can withstand temperatures up to 250 °F. It is 100% recyclable, resistant to mold and mildew, and has no odor. It is also non-absorbent and maintains dimensional stability in moist environments.
  • Acoustical FibraMat™ Blends. Our material specialists can work with your sound insulating requirements to determine the optimal composition, weight, thickness, and density of this cost-effective material.
  • PyroMat™. This needled, nonwoven fabric can hold up against temperatures up to 750 °F. It can be used to seal uneven surfaces or radiuses that are exposed to high temperatures or flames. It also has excellent tensile and tear strength, and can be die cut and laminated.

Masticated Rubber

This recycled rubber material is usually reinforced with high-strength fiber cords. It has high tensile strength and tear resistance. It can be used effectively to dampen vibration and sound as well as for weatherproofing applications.

Why Us?

RubberMill specializes in manufacturing high-precision, non-metallic parts including thermal and acoustic insulation materials and products. We work with a range of materials including open- and closed-cell poly foams, high-loft nonwoven polyester, FR cotton shoddy, rubber, felts, PVC, nylon, mylar, cork, and adhesives. Many materials are in-stock in thicknesses from 0.125 in. to 4.0 in.

We develop and manufacture custom solutions for many industries including manufacturing, appliance, transportation, HVAC, and heavy equipment OEMs. Our capabilities include custom cutting and molding, product assembly, contract manufacturing, and contract lamination.

Sound and Thermal Insulation for Heavy Equipment & Machinery by RubberMill

At RubberMill, we bring experience and expertise in material science, engineering, and manufacturing to each thermal and acoustic insulation project. Request a quote to learn more or to speak with a team member.