Basalt continuous filament insulating and fire-resistant material and sleeves and methods of construction thereof

Abstract

An fire-retardant insulating material and method of construction thereof has a textile fabric fabricated of continuous basalt filaments. The continuous basalt filaments are preferably texturized or twisted. The insulating material may be arranged in any configuration, such as a sheet, panel or sleeve, and may be knit, woven or braided.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60 / 796,395, filed May 1, 2006, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention relates generally to insulating materials, and more particularly to insulating materials and tubular sleeves constructed at least partially from basalt continuous filaments.[0004]2. Related Art[0005]Automotive, aeronautical, rail and marine components positioned in engine compartments or near heat sources such as exhaust manifolds may be subjected to harsh thermal environments. Further, undesired heat transfer may also occur between heat sources such as engines, exhaust systems and / or transmissions and the passenger compartment of an automobile, aircraft, train or boat. Oil and gas exploration and drilling tools also need protection from exposure to heat and spark and fire. It is known in the...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0010]In view of the above, the insulating materials fabricated in accordance with the invention have robust performance characteristics and are capable of providing protection to temperature sensitive components against extreme temperatures. The materials are also easily manipulated and capable of wide use throughout a vehicle by, for example, being capable of taking various shapes, and be formed into resilient constructions. In addition, the materials are generally economical in design, manufacture and use. The materials of the invention will find application in any of a number of fields including, without limitation, automotive, marine, aeronautical, train, and oil and gas exploration and drilling equipment.

Problems solved by technology

Automotive, aeronautical, rail and marine components positioned in engine compartments or near heat sources such as exhaust manifolds may be subjected to harsh thermal environments.

Further, undesired heat transfer may also occur between heat sources such as engines, exhaust systems and / or transmissions and the passenger compartment of an automobile, aircraft, train or boat.

Some modern applications require protection to components in extreme temperatures that some of the prior art materials are incapable of providing.

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