XLPE Foam Insulation Sheet: What Are Its Properties And Advantages?

xlpe foam insulation sheet is utilized to describe cross-linked polyethylene. It shares some properties of polyethylene such as high chemical resistance & remarkable moisture resistance. Its high thermal insulation qualities make it suitable for use in high voltage as well temperature conditions.

Common applications of cross-linked polyethylene are in building plumbing (or pipework) systems, as insulation for high voltage cables, & as an alternative for polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and copper tubing in water pipes.

Enhanced Properties Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE)

Compared to ordinary polyethylene, cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) has improved properties that give it an added advantage in performance.

XLPE wire with its enhanced properties doesn’t melt easily & can withstand higher temperatures of up to 120°C for an extended time without losing its mechanical & chemical properties.

The young modulus is also enhanced as well as its resistance to abrasion & environmental stress. The cross-link of the polymer structure changes the thermoplastic into a thermoset, hence the resultant enhancement in XLPE properties as discussed.

Insulated XLPE wire (xlpe foam insulation sheet) can be utilized under harsh conditions where its strength will be pushed to the limit. XLPE insulation is well-known to last longer compared to PVC insulation (types of thermal insulation), which is only suitable for low-tension applications.

Here is an overview of the XLPE insulated cable’s desired properties;

Why is XLPE Cross-Linked?

Cross-linking xlpe foam insulation sheet cables can best be described as vulcanizing the rubber with the addition of little amounts of chemical additives to help rearrange the molecular structure into a lattice that hinders the molecules‘s movement in the presence of heat.

This is done to elevate the stability of the XLPE (types of thermal insulation) cable at high temperatures. XPLE also improves in XLPE wire current rating for short circuits and normal loading conditions.

With xlpe foam insulation sheets, the problem of accelerated aging as a result of electrical, environmental, and mechanical stress is taken care of as well. So, they could be utilized in the open air or buried (for underground distribution) with no cause to worry.

Applications of XLPE 

The list of XLPE applications is endless & every industry where it’s been utilized takes advantage of one or more of its unique properties. In mines, for example, it is the ability to withstand extremely high pressure & temperature and still maintain the toughness that makes it a suitable mate