Need a rigid insulation material?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around finding a rigid insulation material, specifically around 1/8" thick, suitable for a project. Options considered include polyimide and Teflon sheets, noted for their rigidity and electrical insulation properties. For thermal insulation, two recommended sources are foam core materials from marine suppliers and sheet foam used by refrigeration contractors for flooring. The conversation clarifies the initial confusion between electrical and thermal insulation needs. Ultimately, PTFE is highlighted as a viable option for thermal insulation.
Topher925
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Need a rigid insulation material?

I have a project that requires insulation sheets that are rigid and difficult to compress, about 1/8" thick. I was thinking about some type of ceramic material but can't find anything in that thickness. I'm not looking for some type of exotic material, just something I can get from grainger or mcmaster.

I was looking at using this polyimide material but not sure how compressive it would be.
 
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ordinary teflon sheets are commonly available, fairly rigid, good electrical insulators, and dense enough to resist physical compression.
 


Bobbywhy's idea is good if you are looking for electrical insulation.

But if you are looking for thermal insulation you have two good choices. Both the choices are basically the same, but from two different products sold by two different sources. One is to use foam core material sold though marine suppliers for boat building. The other is to find a large refrigeration contractor, one that would take a contract to insulate a warehouse for refrigeration. They use many different types of sheet foam. You would be looking for the variety they put on the floors that the forklifts drive over.
 


Pkruse, Thank you for your comments. Too bad I assumed the OP was looking for "ELECTRICAL" insulation sheets. Now, it seems you are guessing the OP was looking for "THERMAL" insulation sheets.

Topher925, will you please be specific? Exactly what kind of insulation are you seeking?

Cheers,
Bobbywhy
 


Bobbywhy said:
Pkruse, Thank you for your comments. Too bad I assumed the OP was looking for "ELECTRICAL" insulation sheets. Now, it seems you are guessing the OP was looking for "THERMAL" insulation sheets.

Topher925, will you please be specific? Exactly what kind of insulation are you seeking?

Cheers,
Bobbywhy

Whoops. Yes I was referring to thermal insulation, not electrical. I like the PTFE idea, I don't know why I didn't think of that.
 
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