Easy-to-clean 2-in-1 solution; protection against microbial contamination

Eine mehrlagige Konstruktion aus geschlossenzelligem Elastomerdämmstoff, robustem Glasfilamentgewebe und reinigungsfreundlicher, UV-beständiger Schutzfolie bieten den in der Lebensmittelindustrie notwendigen Schutz vor mikrobieller Kontamination (Illustration: Armacell) / A multi-layer construction consisting of closed-cell elastomeric insulation material, robust glass-filament fabric and easy-to-clean, UV-resistant protective foil provides the protection against microbial contamination needed in the food industry. (Illustration: Armacell)

New addition to Armacell’s Arma-Chek range: an especially easy-to-clean product that meets the highest aesthetic requirements. Arma-Chek SD combines in one product the tried-and-tested properties of the closed-cell elastomeric insulation material AF/Armaflex with a tough, shiny, anthracite covering. The pre-covered insulation system is suitable for indoor and outdoor installations and is predestined for use in the food industry.

Reliable insulation with an attractive-looking covering

Arma-Chek SD is the ideal solution wherever not only robust protection against weathering and mechanical stress is required, but also an aesthetically pleasing appearance. The covering material with an attractive, shiny, anthracite surface protects the insulation material against mechanical impact. At the same time it is so flexible that, unlike a metal covering, it recovers from blows and no dents are left in the material. The tough covering also protects the elastomeric insulation material against saltwater, UV rays, oil and chemicals. The smooth surface is tear- and impact-resistant and very easy to clean. It is even possible to use high-pressure cleaners, but the contact pressure must never exceed 1 N/mm². Because it is so easy to clean and provides an aesthetic appeal, Arma-Chek SD is predestined for use in clean-room environments such as the food industry.

Risk of undiscovered microbial contamination of the insulation

Due to the high humidity, which occurs when installations are steam-cleaned, for example, the food industry provides perfect growth conditions for mould. In this industry, there is a particularly high risk of germs settling in the insulation on pipes, air ducts and other installations. If traditional open-cell insulation materials with a metal jacket are used in this environment, there is a danger of water penetrating the insulation if the covering is not completely tight – and this is very difficult to achieve in the case of metal jackets. In combination with dust and dirt particles, the damp mineral fibre insulation provides an ideal breeding ground for microbial growth. Germs can settle on the surface of pipes and ducts forming a layer of slime which may then result in a biofilm. Once a biofilm has formed, thorough mechanical cleaning followed by disinfection are required to remove it. This means that the entire insulation and covering material have to be renewed. The real problem, however, is that the source of bacteria and mould is often not discovered because the processes take place under the metal jacket and are therefore hidden.

Greater security through pre-covered elastomeric insulation systems

Arma-Chek SD is manufactured based on AF/Armaflex. The elastomeric insulation material has a closed-microcell structure, low thermal conductivity and high resistance to water-vapour transmission. These properties ensure that installations insulated with Arma-Chek SD have long-term protection against condensation. Because they are dust- and fibre-free materials, Armaflex products offer passive protection against micro-organisms. In addition, AF/Armaflex is equipped with antimicrobial Microban® technology and has even greater resistance to bacteria and mould. An important benefit of flexible covering systems is the direct connection to the adjoining insulation. This rules out the risk of water ingress, because where there are no seams and crimps, there is no danger of moisture or germs penetrating the insulation. 

2-in-1 solution is quick and easy to install

Using pre-covered insulation systems means that both time and money can be saved. Unlike traditional insulation materials and jackets, Arma-Chek SD can be installed directly in one step. The material is easy to cut and can be installed on site without the need for any special tools. Arma-Chek SD is provided as factory-covered continuous sheets in standard and self-adhesive versions in insulation thicknesses from 10 to 32 mm and as self-adhesive tape. The covering material is also available separately on rolls for retrofitting on existing insulation.