Designing insulation systems can be complicated, especially when they are intended to satisfy a number of design objectives. In some projects, multiple design goals must be satisfied simultaneously. For example, the objective may be to minimize energy use and to avoid surface condensation on a hot-water line, and the line may pass through various spaces within the project site.
Since the various spaces may have differing temperature and humidity conditions, it is likely that different insulation materials, thicknesses, and coverings may be required for a single line. Since projects may also involve many lines operating at various service temperatures in various environmental conditions, it is obvious that a systematic approach is required for all but the simplest projects.