Air Cell Pipe Covering
Asbestos has long been considered one of the most effective insulators. This is mainly due to its extreme resistance to fire and heat damage. Because of this, asbestos was utilized for the manufacturing of a wide array of construction materials as well as everyday items for the home. These products were marketed and advertised as lasting longer while costing much less. This was because asbestos was a plentiful mineral that was easily obtained and processed.
Asbestos was used in a great deal insulating products and materials. One such usage was air cell pipe coverings, which were used to cover both hot and cold water pipes as well as insulation for ductwork and furnace systems. The material resembles gray corrugated cardboard and was available in a variety of widths depending on its intended use. Air cell pipe coverings were used in the construction of businesses as well as residential buildings.
Like pretty much all materials containing asbestos, air cell pipe covers were perfectly safe so long as they were not damaged or cut. The problem is that builders had to cut the pipe covering in order for it to be able to fit what they were building. When this material was cut into, the air filled with fragments of asbestos that were easily inhaled. This meant that not only were the ones working on the pipes in danger of potential asbestos exposure, but anyone who was nearby was potentially susceptible to inhaling the fibers as well.
Insulation containing asbestos doesn’t just pose a risk to the ones who originally installed it. It could also affect people who came into contact with it later on. This is because over time it starts to break down and can easily crumble with the slightest disturbance.
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