In a world where sustainability is becoming even more valuable than efficiency, it helps to have a solution that achieves both. Some natural minerals are proving themselves as effective insulation material for vital cryogenic processes. A mineral like perlite is a popular choice for many companies looking for a safe way to save money and improve infrastructure. Learn what cryogenic perlite has to offer to the cause.

What is Perlite

Perlite is a naturally occurring, glass-like rock made from volcanic material. When lava and ash quickly cools, it creates this solid mineral that traps moisture over time. When reheated, the moisture expands, creating the porous bubbles that give perlite the following properties:

• Lightweight
• Thermal conductivity and stability
• Fire resistance

Since perlite is naturally sourced, it’s one of the most sought after sustainable solutions for a range of applications, including cryogenics.

Cryogenic Perlite for Cold Storage

Who knew millions of tiny glass bubbles in expanded perlite could help keep energy and natural gas infrastructure operating efficiently? Those who work with vital cryogenic processes now know and often prefer working with perlite-based insulation.

Those glass bubbles of trapped air stops heat from passing through. This insulating property of perlite blocks the transfer of heat in double-wall cryogenic storage tanks, cold boxes used for transporting liquids and gasses, and the pipes of equipment used during these processes.

Storing and transporting materials such as liquified natural gas (LNG), hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen requires extremely cold temperatures and high safety standards. With the natural insulating power of perlite, you get both.

Benefits of Perlite Insulation

Not only does perlite make an excellent insulator because of its natural thermal conducting ability, but this mineral-based product doesn’t add weight or chemicals to the process, making it even more beneficial.

• Lightweight perlite doesn’t put pressure on the walls and floor of storage structures.
• Easily add the airy structure to containers by pouring or blowing into large cavities.
• As a natural mineral, it doesn’t catch fire or react with chemicals or cryogenic liquids. This prevents contamination and makes it safe for the process and staff.
• Since it doesn’t degrade overtime, it can be removed, cleaned, and reused year after year.

With so many benefits to production and the environment, it’s no wonder vital medical and scientific industries rely on perlite to maintain their essential services.

Maintaining Cryogenic Perlite

In order to keep perlite in its best form to ensure efficient use, it needs very little maintenance. The key is keeping it dry. Even though perlite is porous and can retain a lot of moisture, too much moisture can cause particles to clump together and compact the area. If there are any leaks or excess condensation in the pipes or containers being insulated, the perlite should be removed so these areas can be properly repaired. Then the perlite can be replaced.

Perlite may also settle into larger areas. Be sure to inspect the tank after filling with perlite to determine whether it needs to be topped off to full volume. Thermal imaging equipment can be used to uncover cold spots on the outer tank, a sign there’s not enough insulation. Continue to monitor the tanks over time to determine if future refills are needed.

Innovating Perlite Use

While perlite has been used to improve cold storage and energy processes in a number of industries, miners and manufacturer’s of perlite are still finding ways to distribute this vital mineral more efficiently.

Perlite is offered in a range of package sizes and delivery methods. If you’re a company that requires large quantities of perlite for multiple cryogenic containers and equipment, buying in bulk is a smart, economic choice. There are also companies, like Chemrock Cryogenics, that will deliver and expand perlite onsite, providing you with optimal service and results.

When you keep your cryogenic equipment and storage units running smoothly, it not only saves your company time and money, but it also helps to save energy and benefits the environment. This is why opting for perlite as a cryogenic insulator is a solid choice for all of your cold storage needs.