Aerogel is a revolutionary insulation material known for its light weight and superior insulation performance. Oryza-Sil-650, now available from ISOPARTNER, builds on this technology and offers low dust generation, superior thermal properties and high fire resistance - perfect for demanding insulation projects in offshore, petrochemical and heavy industry.
What is aerogel?
Aerogel, also known as “frozen smoke”, was originally developed for space travel and is so light that it almost feels like air, while being extremely strong. This makes it possible to reduce insulation thickness by up to 50%, which is crucial in tight applications.
In a recent Insulated Set podcast episode, Espen Hjortland, Vice President Product Europe at Beerenberg, described aerogel as a small miracle material:
“Aerogel is one of the world's lightest and most efficient insulation materials, with very low thermal conductivity and outstanding insulation performance at both high and low temperatures. After six years of searching for a solution that could overcome the challenges of dust, thickness and cost, we found the answer in the aerogel product Oryza-Sil 650. It's a small miracle material with properties we've longed for. But now it's here.”
Watch the podcast episode here:
The benefits of Oryza-Sil-650
- Low dust generation: Traditional aerogel solutions have often been associated with high dust generation during installation (see video below), requiring extensive protection regimes. With Oryza-Sil-650, the manufacturer has managed to drastically reduce dust generation, making the material easier and safer to work with.
- Space-saving and flexible: When there's no room for thick insulation solutions such as mesh or ceramic fiber, Oryza-Sil-650 is a natural choice. The aerogel's thin layer makes it possible to achieve high insulation performance without increasing the diameter of insulated pipes or process equipment, which is particularly important in tight installations. “We've managed to reduce the thickness of the insulation by fifty percent, providing space-saving solutions,” Hjortland explained.
- Cost-effective: Although aerogel is more expensive than traditional insulation materials, Oryza-Sil-650 is a more cost-effective solution than competing alternatives, while reducing energy losses.
- Extremely hydrophobic and breathable: Oryza-Sil-650 is water-repellent and breathable, providing an important advantage in reducing corrosion under insulation (CUI). This helps to extend the life of the insulation and the equipment it protects.
See how the Oryza Sil 650 performs in the dust test compared to competing products:
Applications: Thrives in both hot and extremely cold conditions
Oryza-Sil-650 is specially designed for various industrial and offshore applications. It is used, for example, in oil refineries, platforms and housing modules, where space and performance are crucial. The material is also suitable for cryogenic applications due to its ability to insulate at very low temperatures, down to -196°C.
In building and construction, aerogel plays an important role in the refurbishment of older buildings where space and energy efficiency are critical. “10 mm of aerogel is equivalent to the insulation performance of 50 mm of mineral wool, making it ideal for energy-efficient rehabilitation,” Hjortland added in the podcast.
Sustainability and the future of aerogel
Aerogel also plays a key role in future sustainable solutions. By reducing energy losses and minimizing material use, Oryza-Sil-650 contributes to lower CO2 emissions and a more sustainable industry. “It's a material that is not only about reducing costs, but also about protecting the environment,” Hjortland emphasized.
For more information about Oryza-Sil-650 and how it can improve your insulation projects, visit ISOPARTNER's online store at tekniskisolering.no.
