INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Superinsulation

Advanced multilayer insulation system for cryogenic storage vessels providing ultra-low thermal conductivity.

Component Specifications

Definition
Superinsulation is a specialized thermal insulation component used in cryogenic storage vessels, consisting of multiple alternating layers of highly reflective radiation shields and low-conductivity spacer materials arranged in high-vacuum environments to minimize heat transfer through radiation, conduction, and convection, enabling long-term storage of cryogenic fluids with minimal boil-off losses.
Working Principle
Operates on the principle of combined heat transfer suppression: 1) Multiple reflective layers (typically aluminum or gold-coated polymer films) reduce radiative heat transfer through successive reflection, 2) Low-conductivity spacer materials (glass fiber, polyester, or ceramic papers) separate layers to minimize solid conduction, 3) High vacuum environment (typically <10^-3 mbar) eliminates gaseous conduction and convection, achieving thermal conductivities as low as 0.0001 W/m·K.
Materials
Radiation shields: Aluminum-coated polyester (PET) films (12-25 μm thickness, 0.03-0.05 emissivity), Gold-coated polyimide films for extreme applications; Spacer materials: Glass fiber paper (10-50 gsm), Polyester non-woven fabric, Silica aerogel-infused materials; Edge sealing: Butyl rubber or epoxy-based barriers; Support structures: Polyimide or fiberglass reinforced frames.
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Density5-20 kg/m³
Layer Count30-100 alternating layers
Vacuum Level<10^-3 mbar
Total Thickness10-50 mm
Radiation Heat Flux<1 W/m² at 77K
Compressive Strength0.5-5 kPa
Thermal Conductivity0.0001-0.0005 W/m·K
Operating Temperature-269°C to 100°C

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards
ISO 21014:2019, DIN 28400-2, ASTM C177, EN 14314

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Vacuum degradation over time
  • Mechanical damage during installation/maintenance
  • Radiation shield oxidation
  • Spacer material compression
  • Thermal bridging at penetrations
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Vacuum system leakage
Failure: Increased thermal conductivity leading to excessive boil-off
Mitigation: Regular vacuum monitoring, redundant sealing systems, helium leak testing during maintenance
Trigger: Mechanical compression during installation
Failure: Reduced insulation performance due to increased solid conduction
Mitigation: Proper installation procedures, use of compression-resistant spacers, installation training programs
Trigger: Radiation shield degradation
Failure: Increased radiative heat transfer
Mitigation: Use of corrosion-resistant coatings, controlled atmosphere during manufacturing, regular infrared inspection

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
Layer alignment ±1 mm, Vacuum level ±10% of specification, Thermal conductivity ±15% of rated value
Test Method
Guarded hot plate method (ASTM C177), Heat flux measurement, Vacuum integrity testing (helium mass spectrometry), Cryogenic boil-off testing

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation
Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.
Manufacturing capability
Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.
Inspection readiness
Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.
Supplier transparency
Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

CNFX does not score or rank suppliers. Buyers must verify all claims and documents with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Manufacturers of Superinsulation

Manufacturer profiles associated with Superinsulation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary advantage of superinsulation over conventional insulation?

Superinsulation achieves thermal conductivities 10-100 times lower than conventional foam or fiberglass insulation through the combined effect of multiple radiation barriers and high vacuum, significantly reducing boil-off losses in cryogenic storage.

How many layers are typically used in superinsulation systems?

Commercial superinsulation systems typically contain 30-100 alternating layers of radiation shields and spacers, with optimal performance achieved through careful balancing of layer count, material selection, and vacuum quality.

What maintenance is required for superinsulation systems?

Superinsulation requires periodic vacuum integrity checks (typically annually), visual inspection for physical damage during vessel openings, and potential re-evacuation if vacuum levels degrade beyond specified limits.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Preliminary Technical Classification
This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

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