Vacuum Insulation Network
What is Vacuum Insulation?
It is known to everyone in the insulated flasks, developed by Dewar -
but commonly known as Thermos or Dewar flasks.
It works by separating materials by a vacuum (such that heat transport
by gas is negligible).
It is not to be found in
conventional double
glazing (that is is filled with
air).
Thermal energy is transported by electromagnetic radiation; this is
minimal.
Why is vacuum insulation important?
It is important because it is so effective - and lightweight. It is
often quoted that vacuum insulation is ten times more effective than
fibreglass ( i.e. only a tenth of much of it is needed)
What is the purpose of the Vacuum Insulation network?
It's purpose is to promote the use and development of vacuum insulation.
To do this there is a need to make (potential) users aware of what is
available, what is possible and what could be developed.
There is a need for designers and manufacturers to come together to
collaborate and to improve that capabilities of vacuum insulation and
reduce its costs.
Uses of Vacuum Insulation
- Vacuum insulated tubing or piping is used to transport (very cold
-
cryogenic temperatures) liquefied natural gas or to inject steam into
oil-fields to enhance oil recovery.
- Vacuum insulated glazing (VIG) may be used to achieve much higher
performance
than conventional double glazing.
- Vacuum insulated panels (VIP) are used to improve the performance
of
refrigerators and refrigerarated vehicles which, in addition to
improved insulation reduce the amount of wasted space.
- Vacuum insulated panels may, also, be used to improve the thermal
performance of walls in buildings.
- Spacesuits rely on vacuum insulation (though not for the Martian
space suit)
What is to come?
More information about the physics of vacuum insulation
Descriptions of different types of vacuum insulation; their materials
and design requirements.
Overview of manufacturing processes and costs
Groups and companies involved with vacuum insulation
Contact details and progress of the network