Cellular Glass Joint Adhesive for Cryogenic Moisture Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional asphalt-based joint adhesives for cellular glass insulation systems have drawbacks such as flammability and health concerns, and they fail to meet the needs of insulation systems operating at cryogenic temperatures.
Innovation Solution
The use of amorphous poly alpha-olefin (APAO) adhesives, which are applied at the interface between adjacent cellular glass insulation segments, providing a suitable replacement for asphalt-based adhesives by meeting specific criteria such as onset of melt and differential movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If asphalt-based joint adhesives are used for cellular glass insulation, then the adhesive provides sealing capability, but the system suffers from flammability and health concerns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameters of the adhesive by replacing asphalt-based materials with alternative adhesive materials that have different fire resistance and health safety parameters, thereby eliminating flammability and health concerns while maintaining sealing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs alternative adhesive materials that can be applied as thin layers and provide effective sealing without the need for thick asphalt applications, reducing material usage and associated hazards
2Reliability
If conventional asphalt-based joint adhesives are used, then the adhesive provides joint sealing, but the adhesive fails to meet the needs of insulation systems operating at cryogenic temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the thermal performance parameters of the adhesive by selecting materials with appropriate glass transition temperatures and thermal expansion coefficients that remain stable at cryogenic temperatures, ensuring the adhesive maintains its sealing function in extreme cold conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses alternative adhesive materials that act as an intermediary between the cellular glass segments, providing a thermal bridge that maintains joint integrity across extreme temperature ranges without failing like conventional asphalt adhesives
3Ease of manufacture
If cellular glass is fabricated into sections for insulation, then the insulation can be assembled around pipes, but gaps or joints between segments must be sealed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces alternative adhesive materials as an intermediary substance that fills and seals the gaps between cellular glass segments, simplifying the assembly process by providing a reliable bonding agent that eliminates the complexity of achieving tight fits without adhesive
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
APAO adhesives effectively seal the joints between cellular glass segments, maintaining thermal integrity and preventing vapor intrusion, even at extreme cryogenic temperatures, while avoiding the drawbacks of asphalt-based systems.
Implementation Method 1
applied at an interface between adjacent cellular glass insulation segments
Implementation Method 2
has an onset of melt of from about 20° C. to about 75° C.
Data Source
AI summary
A cellular glass system for insulating an outer surface of a fluid carrying or storing vessel, such as a pipe, is disclosed. The system is comprised of segments of cellular glass insulation. A sealant is provided at the interface between adjacent cellular glass segments to seal the system from moisture and thermal intrusion.