Large Diameter High Density Expanded Polystyrene Conduit Insulation

Large Diameter High Density Expanded Polystyrene Conduit Insulation


Large Diameter Conduit (L.D.C.) Insulation was specifically designed to conserve energy loss from buried Hydronic Pex or PEX-Al-PEX piping. L.D.C. is available in R-8, R-10 and R-12 thermal insulation values. It has a compressive strength of 16 psi, and can therefore be buried in soil to a depth of over 16 feet. L.D.C. is manufactured from high density expanded polystyrene (EPS). It is a closed cell foam material that will never rot or decompose. It has no pest nutrient value. L.D.C. was designed to contain any diameter of tube up to 1.5 inches outside diameter. Each piece is 4 feet long, which will yield 2 lineal feet of pipe cover. Other variations can be produced for special applications. L.D.C. is still one of the the most economical and efficient underground insulation solutions for Hydronic Pex or PEX-Al-PEX piping in a typical central heating system. Proper assessment of the central heating systems ground water table and applicable precautions must be taken when necessary to avoid moisture contact with the piping and insulation. Most building sites are not built where high ground table water exists. If you have a high ground water table it is recommended that you use one of the more expensive waterproof underground piping systems, as unlike the more expensive options the L.D.C. system is not water proof and moisture can cause additional heat loss. This is the insulated piping system that has been used in our own central heating system we installed in 2002. The system delivers 225,000 Btu 280', the pipe is buried 48" +/- Deep and we experience a 1 degree Fahrenheit heat loss from the outdoor boiler to the building, using the R-8 L.D.C. Insulation & PEX-Al-PEX tubing.