Abstract: A sizing composition containing an epoxy resin emulsion, one or more coupling agents, a cationic lubricant, and an acid. The epoxy resin emulsion includes a low molecular weight epoxy and one or more surfactants. The epoxy resin has an epoxy equivalent weight of from 175-225, preferably from 175-190. Optionally, the sizing composition may also contain a non-ionic lubricant, a polyurethane film former, and/or an antistatic agent. The sizing composition may be used to size glass fibers used in filament winding applications to form reinforced composite articles with improved mechanical properties, wet tensile properties, improved resistance to cracking, and improved processing characteristics.

Abstract: Provided is an assembly for insulating substantially vertical runs of cooled surfaces that are continuously or periodically exposed to air or another gas that has a dewpoint temperature above that of the cooled surface, thereby resulting in condensation water vapor on or adjacent the cooled surface. One embodiment of the insulating assembly provides a wicking material layer adjacent the cooled surface that, in combination with transporting and evaporating structures, removes the condensate from the vicinity of the cooled surface and allows for its evaporation into the ambient gas surrounding the exterior surface of the insulating assembly. Another embodiment provides for exposing the condensate to an internal conditioned gas stream to provide for evaporation that does not necessarily utilize an exterior surface. Both embodiments remove condensate from the insulating structure and thereby tend to avoid any substantial condensate accumulation and maintain the insulating performance.