Pipe lagging is another name for pipe insulation. Its main purpose is to help conserve heat and to prevent condensation. It can also reduce the noise that comes out of pipes. Pipe lagging is made from many different types of material that also prove useful to insulate other parts of the home. You can make pipe lagging from any of the following:
- Flexible elastomeric foams
- Rigid foam
- Polyethylene
- Glass wool
- Mineral wool
There are two main uses for lagging, and the material you choose will depend on what the main application of the lagging is for:
Acoustics:
The Building Code of Australia contains regulations determining how much noise can be made in living areas by things like pipes. As such, lagging is designed to contain the noise generated by the flow of liquid or air flowing through pipe and fittings.
The lag comprises a noise barrier to contain break out noise. There are several types of material put to use for this purpose which include loaded vinyl and convoluted foam. Each material will have a U-Factor. This term is a performance rating that measuries how well a material prevents noise from escaping.
Thermal Insulation:
This pipe lagging is normally a highly flexible material fits around pipes to reduce the movement due to thermal changes in the pipe.
Above all, a more complex insulation is available that can control both heat and noise transmission. The insulation maintains the temperature in hot/cold water services, chilled water lines, refrigeration pipework and air-conditioning ducts.
