Frequently Asked Questions
| What is Gilsulate 500XR? | Gilsulate is a dry, inert, inorganic material composed of coated calcium carbonate and sodium potassium Aluminum silicate. | |
| What color is Gilsulate 500XR? | White | |
| How is Gilsulate 500XR packaged? | Gilsulate is packaged in one cubic foot paper bags or 60 cubic foot semi-bulk bags. Both packaging options are at use density, making it simple to determine the amount of bags you will need for your project. If your envelope requires 100 cubic feet of Gilsulate, you just need to order 100 bags. | |
| Can we order a partial pallet of Gilsulate? | Yes, partial pallets are available. However, a pallet charge may be applied to these orders. | |
| Can unused Gilsulate be returned for credit? | Unused Gilsulate may be returned to the factory for credit, subject to inspection and acceptance by Gilsulate International (opened/damaged bags can not be returned). Returned material is subject to restocking fees. | |
| Can empty bags and pallets be returned for credit? | No. | |
| Is Gilsulate 500XR hydrophobic? | Certified by Gilsulate International, Inc. to be 100% hydrophobic. | |
| Do I mix anything with Gilsulate 500XR to use it? | No. Gilsulate 500XR is not mixed with anything at the jobsite. | |
| Is cathodic protection required to be used in conjunction with Gilsulate 500XR? | No, but it is compatible. | |
| Does Gilsulate 500XR contain asbestos? | No. | |
| What safety precautions should be utilized while handling or installing it? | Gilsulate 500XR is considered a nuisance dust. The use of a dust mask similar to a 3M 8211 is recommended by the manufacturer while handling or installing the material. As with any product, refer to the MSDS sheet, available on this website, for safety related issues concerning the use of other types of respirators where elevated TVL levels require something different. | |
| Can I install Gilsulate 500XR in the rain? | A light mist will not cause undue problems while installing the product. If rain becomes imminent or it begins to rain, the section being worked on should be finished, bulk-headed and covered with a light layer of sand. | |
| Do I need permanent pipe supports throughout the piping system? | Permanent pipe supports are not necessary other than at the base, or closed end, of an expansion loop. Gilsulate 500XR will support the weight of the piping system. The piping system will need to be temporarily supported until the Gilsulate 500XR is installed properly. Afterwards, the temporary supports must be removed. | |
| Can Gilsulate 500XR be used to retrofit other type systems that have become damaged or inefficient? | Yes. Specific information is needed to make the proper recommendations, however. Call us to discuss your specific situation. | |
| You say that Gilsulate has a "graduated" particle sizing. Why is this important? | A good load-bearing fill requires certain characteristics, two of which are having multi-sized particles and multi-faceted particles. These characteristics create high inter-particle friction that increase the overall fill's load-bearing capacity. The formulation of Gilsulate 500XR has been engineered to meet these characteristics. | |
| Why is it necessary to consolidate Gilsulate 500XR before backfilling? | Well, the simple answer might be because you don't want your insulation to consolidate under the backfill. By consolidating Gilsulate 500XR prior to backfill, you ensure that your specified envelope dimensions are maintained. The load-bearing properties of Gilsulate 500XR will prevent the backfill from compressing the insulation envelope below the specified dimensions for your project. | |
| How is Gilsulate 500XR consolidated? | Gilsulate 500XR is consolidated with a simple wand type concrete vibrator. The vibrator is dragged horizontally through the Gilsulate 500XR. Like an aggregate in concrete, the smaller-sized particles will fit between the larger particles. This forms a tight matrix and prevents the penetration of water into the insulation envelope. The Gilsulate 500XR should be consolidated in layers in installations with high envelope dimensions. After proper consolidation, you can walk on the surface of the insulation envelope. | |
| What does "XR" mean? | The temperature limit of Gilsulate® 500 was 500º F. Extensive independent testing authorized by American Thermal Products, Inc. in the early 1980's revealed that the upper temperature limit of the product was in excess of 800º F. The XR portion of the name eludes to the "extended range". |
We will continually update this section. Please check Gilsulate International Inc.'s "Design & Installation Manual" for answer to your specific application.