# Insulation Materials

FluidFlow contains a database of insulation types. The thermal conductivity data for each type is defined within the database and is included when carrying out pipe/duct heat transfer calculations. New insulation types can be added to the database by the user. Figure 1 provides an overview of the insulation thermal conductivity database which can be accessed by selecting: Database | Insulation Materials Thermal Conductivity. Figure 1: Insulation Materials Thermal Conductivity Database.
Actions
Add | Add a new entry to the database.
Delete | Delete the currently selected record from the database. Note: There are certain records, added by Flite, that you will not be able to delete.
Data Entry
Insulation Name | Descriptive name for the insulation material.
Insulation Definition | There are three possible definitions: ▪Undefined ▪Fixed Value ▪Table
Conductivity | Value for material thermal conductivity which will be used in pipe heat transfer calculations. Note: Visible only when 'Fixed Value' is selected for 'Insulation Definition'.
Conductivity Unit | Refers to the units used to specify the conductivity value. Note: Visible only when 'Fixed Value' is selected for 'Insulation Definition'.
Table | Defines a table of values for thermal conductivity vs. temperature. Figure 2 provides an example of aerogel which has been defined using values for thermal conductivity vs. temperature. Note: Visible only when 'Table' is selected for 'Insulation Definition'.
Figure 2: Thermal Conductivity Curve-Fit. To create the curve-fit, simply enter the coordinates as provided by the manufacturer in the columns on the left hand side. FluidFlow will automatically create the curve-fit once a minimum of three coordinates have been defined.
Curve Fit Data Entry
Curve Fit Type | There are two options to choose from: Linear and Polynomial.
Equation Order | There are a number of options available including: Linear, Quartic, Cubic, etc.
Temperature Unit | Refers to the unit of temperature that is used to specify the temperature value.
Thermal Conductivity Unit | Refers to the units that are used to specify the thermal conductivity values.
If any of the above is unclear, or you require any further information, please contact us at: support@fluidflowinfo.com.