GAS-L: Use of Kaowool fibres

[Reedtb2@cs.com]

Dear Claus:

I believe Kaowool is one trade name for a host of fibrous insulation made 
from spun mullite (an alumino-silicate mineral).  It melts above 1500 C and 
is both an excellent refractory and has very low thermal conductivity.  

Thanks for the info...  I have certainly had a dry cough for a day or two 
after working with Kaowool, riser sleeves etc.  On the other hand, I've used 
these materials for 40 years and still play racketball and tennis, so I won't 
give them up until there is more evidence of problems or a better material 
comes along.  

Depending on how big the vessel being insulated I will always at least wear a 
face mask - maybe a body suit for big jobs like our SeaSweep insulation.  

I'll pass this info along to our team and to the GASIFICATION/STOVE guys 
(whoops, people).

Thanks,                                   TOM REED

TOM REED

In a message dated 1/24/01 6:38:25 AM Mountain Standard Time, 
claush@mek.dtu.dk writes:


Hi Tom and all

You asked for information on the carcinogenic properties of Kaowool.

I have not consulted the scientific evidence, but I can refer to our internal 
"Workingplace instructions" at the Danish Technical University. It again 
refers to papers from the national institution in the area "Arbejdstilsynet" 
dated december 1996 on Kaowool. "At-manual no. 3.1.0.2 december 96".

>From february 1997, danish users of Kaowool should produce written proof, 
that Kaowool cannot be substituted for their purpose. 

I translate breafly from the DTU-paper:



> RESPIRATION:
> Acute : Irritation
> Long term: Cancer. Tumors in lung-tissue. Continuing degradation after 
> exposiure. Dry coughing. Chestaces. Total inabillity to work. Maybe death.
>
> SKIN:
> Acute: Irritation
> Long term: Unknown
>
> EYES:
> Long term: Blurred vision.
>
> PRECAUTIONS:
> Respiration filter P2 or externally supplied breathing air.
> Access to eye-washing equipment. Avoid contact lenses.
> Clothing must be tight by neck, hands and legs.
> Plastic-gloves.
>
> We use full-body suits and fresh-air masks, when forced to work with 
> Kaowool.
>
> Sincerly
> Claus Hindsgaul