service

Non‑metallic claddings are flexible or semi‑rigid coverings applied over thermal insulation to protect the insulation and substrate from moisture, mechanical damage, and UV exposure.

They are specified where metal cladding is unsuitable—chemical or highly corrosive environments, complex geometries, or where corrosion under insulation risk must be minimized.

Systems are available as factory prefabricated kits or field‑applied membranes and fabrics to suit access, geometry, and maintenance needs.

Key design considerations

• Service environment and chemical compatibility - Select cladding chemistry and finishes that resist the specific chemicals, solvents, or process atmospheres expected in service. For aggressive environments prefer gel‑coated GRP or chemically resistant PTFE/PVC coatings.
• Vapor control and CUI mitigation - Where corrosion under insulation is a concern, specify hermetic or factory‑laminated moisture barriers, sealed seams, and details that prevent water ingress and allow drainage or ventilation as required.
• Geometry and flexibility - For complex shapes, curved surfaces, and small‑radius details use elastomeric membranes or coated fabrics that bridge joints and conform without excessive cutting or mechanical fastening.
• Attachment strategy and thermal bridging - Design fastenings and support rails to minimize conductive paths through the insulation. Use low‑conductivity fixings or stand‑off systems and distribute loads to avoid point compression of insulation.
• Mechanical protection and impact resistance - Choose cladding thickness, reinforcement, or composite construction to resist expected impacts, abrasion, and handling. GRP offers high stiffness and impact resistance; coated fabrics provide sacrificial, replaceable protection.
• Seams, joints, and termination details - Specify welded or heat‑sealed seams for PVC and coated fabrics, properly lapped and sealed terminations for elastomeric membranes, and compatible sealants at penetrations to maintain continuity.
• UV stability and weathering - For exposed outdoor applications require UV‑stable finishes or topcoats and consider color and reflectivity to control solar heating where relevant.
• Access, maintainability, and removability - Where frequent access to valves, flanges, or instrumentation is required, prefer removable panel systems or coated fabrics with demountable fastenings to avoid repeated damage to the insulation.
• Fire and regulatory compliance - Verify reaction‑to‑fire and smoke performance for the cladding and underlying insulation and ensure assemblies meet applicable building and process codes.
• Lifecycle cost and repairability - Evaluate total cost of ownership including expected maintenance, repair frequency, and replacement ease; lightweight removable systems can reduce downtime and repair cost in service.