Poor insulation causing energy losses

[DMcMahan]

Does anybody have a quick and dirty method for estimating energy losses due to poor condition or lack of insulation? I have varying line sizes and varying process fluid temperatures. Thanks

 

[kenvlach]

Here's a free program, plus some comments on insulation. The 3E Plus® Insulation Thickness Computer Program is at

http://www.pipeinsulation.org/pages/home.html

Note: this program is for fiberglass & mineral wool type insulation due to its sponsoring manufacturers. If you don't have high temperature requirements, foam insulations have lower conductivity and are less likely to have problem with condensation than open or porous materials such as fiberglass & mineral wool. Although, not fire-resistant.
For insulating chilled lines, styrofoam type is best.

http://www.dow.com/styrofoam/

If you only need to go up to 300 F, I think polyisocyanurate is best. I have no connection with Dow, but have used their Trymer rigd foam insulation in a metal finishing plant: "Trymer polyisocyanurate pipe insulation, a CFC-free, polyurethane-modified polyisocyanurate rigid foam insulation, offers a temperature range from —297°F to 300°F, excellent chemical and solvent resistance, and excellent resistance to both moisture and damage."

http://www.dow.com/styrofoam/na/dowpipe/prod/trymer.htm