Heat shields minimize the operating costs of a system by way of intercepting radiated heat that would usually add to the load on the low-temperature section of the system. Heat shields are often considered to be radiation shields which minimize the heat radiating from a warm to a cold surface. In reality, a cold mass needs a level of mechanical support and the heat shield has an important role to play in intercepting heat conducted across supports.
In theory, heat shields make sense economically as they minimize the heat load on the coldest surfaces, reducing refrigeration needs and as such the operating cost of the system. In reality, heat shields are often needed because unlimited refrigeration is not always available.
What Types of Heat Shields Are There?
There are a range of heat shields that can be used and each of them has specific characteristics which means they are suitable for specific applications. Coated fabrics are often used as heat shields and for protective purposes. Coatings can be made from neoprene, silicon, ceramic or others and are also UV, chemical and abrasion resistant. Heat shields made from heat resistant fabrics are highly durable and are able to be used in extreme environments.
Applications of Heat Shields
Heat shields are frequently used in the automotive industry to offset the high levels of heat emitted by internal combustion engines. Heat shields are also used on engines to prevent damage to the surrounding areas as well as enhancing performance by reducing under bonnet temperatures.
In the aerospace sector, heat shields are used for shielding the passengers and crew from the extremely high operating temperatures of aeroplane components. The heat shields help provide good levels of comfort for those onboard.
In aerospace applications, often spacecrafts travel at such extreme speeds that result in aerodynamic heating. This can be extremely destructive to the cargo and an aerodynamic heat shield can help with this.
The robotics industry is heavily reliant on heat shields as robots are often used in situations that are too dangerous for humans, such as those of extreme heat. Heat shields such as heat resistant fabrics provide protection to the robots to minimize possible damage.
Heat shields such as heat resistant fabrics are often used in high-temperature furnace applications. These shields protect components from melting and limit the amount of heat emitted from the furnace.
Heat Shields from Mid Mountain Materials, Inc.
Mid-Mountain produces a variety of products which can be used as heat shields and manufactured to exact specifications. The materials used to make these heat shields include coated fabrics, fiberglass mat, silica mat, fiberglass fabrics and a range of additional components. If you would like to find out more about the heat shields we offer at Mid-Mountain, contact us today.
