Not all types of insulation are used in residential buildings. Some more expensive and high-tech options are reserved primarily for commercial uses. Businesses that have special, difficult-to-insulate equipment, or want to install excellent roof insulation, should consider cellular glass insulation. FOAMGLAS insulation manufactured by Pittsburgh Corning Corporation is an example of what is available. This is the main company that manufactures insulation of this type.

The crushed glass is heated to high temperatures and the molten glass is mixed with a cellulant agent and placed in molds. The mixture expands to fill the molds as it cools, forming the cellular glass insulation. The main products manufactured are blocks (flat or conical) and insulation boards for roofs (also flat or conical, and covered on the outside with a combination of Kraft paper and asphalt). However, since this type of insulation is used in all kinds of oddly shaped pipes and equipment, you can also make it especially in the size and shape you need.

There are a number of advantages to using cellular glass insulation. First of all, it is resistant to moisture and floats. It is also naturally flame resistant, so it can be used in very high temperatures without catching fire, and it can help prevent fires from spreading. It can also be effective in very cold temperatures, which is not the case with most types of insulation. You can use this insulation within a temperature range of -450 degrees F to 900 degrees F. The temperature range gives it an advantage over other insulators such as calcium silicate, mineral wool, and fiberglass, which can be used in temperatures slightly higher but not in colder temperatures. Finally, it is very strong. When it comes to ceiling insulation, drywall is the only type with a higher compressive strength. However, cellular glass insulation is a better insulator.

There are many uses for this type of insulation, especially among companies that need a type of insulation with its unique properties. In commercial buildings, it is used for fire-retardant building panels as well as green roof insulation. Other uses include special insulation piping operations such as chilled water piping and equipment, cold process piping and equipment, ethylene plant piping and equipment, hot oil piping and equipment, LNG tank piping and bases, stainless steel hot water and underground steam distribution.