Expanded perlite is a key element in low temperature cryogenic insulation. Liquefied gas applications have created a demand for reducing evaporation losses in storage facilities. Perlite has many characteristics that make it the chosen solution. Learn more about its features, functions, and how Chemrock helps companies keep their cool with perlite.

What is Cryogenics

Cryogenic use spans a variety of industries—from food to space. But the one thing it has in common is the need for extremely cold temperatures, typically below -148 degrees Fahrenheit. Here are some of the industries served:

• Medicine. MRI machines require liquid helium to be cryogenically cooled.
• Food. Quickly freeze foods for transportation or storage.
• Transportation. Transform gas into a liquid, like Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) that’s used as fuel.
• Space. Cryogenic chambers are used to test rocket engines.
• Electronics. Test the performance of microchips in the cold.
• Biological Science. Preserve biological materials, such as embryos, stem cells, and tissue.
• Recycling. Freeze materials to make them brittle and easier to break down.

All of these cryogenic processes require materials to be created or stored at extreme temperatures. In order to keep these systems cold, a high quality insulation is needed. Not just any insulation, but one that can help maintain the stability and effectiveness of liquid gas. This is where perlite comes in.

Benefits of Perlite in Cryogenic Insulation

Perlite is a lightweight, light colored, granular material. It’s formed from natural volcanic glass that’s been heated until it softens and expands. Its non-toxic nature makes it ideal for a wide range of applications, especially those that require maintaining a stable environment, like cryogenics. There are many benefits to using perlite, such as:

• Effectiveness. Perlite maintains its volume over time, unlike other materials that can settle or compact and diminish performance.
• Low Moisture Retention. Minimal water absorption helps preserve the quality and performance of cryogenic processes and products.
• Low Thermal Conductivity. Resists heat transfer at very cold temperatures.
• Chemically Inert: Since it doesn’t react with other fluids, there’s no degradation or contamination of the stored substances.
• Non-Combustible. Non-flammable material makes it safe for use in volatile environments.
• Ease of Use. The small, lightweight nature allows easy installation in systems of various shapes and sizes. It can even be removed and reused.
• Cost-Efficient: As something that can be naturally sourced, its abundant supply and low maintenance requirements makes it budget-friendly.
• Eco-Friendly: This naturally occurring material is mined and processed with minimal environmental impact.

With so many advantages for the processes and maintenance of a range of products and services, it’s no wonder perlite is widely used across industries for a variety of cryogenic applications.

How Perlite is Used in Cryogenic Applications

Perlite is well equipped to provide optimal insulation in cryogenic tanks, where maintaining the stability of liquid gas is critical. It’s used to fill the spaces between double-walled containers used during cryogenic processes and storage. It adds another layer of insulation and keeps the temperature low enough for the gas to remain in a liquid state. Here are some of the ways perlite is used:

• Maintains low temperatures in processing equipment, transport containers, and storage tanks of atmospheric and liquefied gas.
• Insulate pipelines carrying cryogenic fluids.
• Contributes to the energy conservation and effectiveness of insulation systems in refrigeration plants.
• Micro-pores filter out liquid impurities as well as create an insulating material that reduces thermal conductivity.

Between the versatility and benefits of using perlite, the only question left to ask is, where do I get it?

Chemrock’s Perlite Supply

Chemrock offers specialized perlite functional fillers that provide exceptional quality and performance for a range of applications, including:

• Cold Boxes
• Loose Fill Insulation
• Storage Tank Insulation

Expanded perlite fills double-walled storage tanks and, if necessary, gets evenly distributed through our unique internal vibration system.

Not only does Chemrock supply high-quality perlite in bulk, but our expert technicians are available to ensure efficient installation of our product into your cryogenic equipment. Choose Chemrock’s mineral-based silicate products for superior performance and quality. Contact us today to learn more and to request a sample.