Heat Shield & Automotive Insulation

A heat shield is component on a vehicle that is designed to deflect the nearby high temperature away from specific parts such as the starter, electrical components, or the floorboard to prevent them from either failing or from creating heat inside the passenger cabin.

Heat shields on cars are typically located near the exhaust pipe, exhaust manifold(s), or catalytic converter. The most common heat shields on passenger vehicles are above the catalytic converter and muffler (to shield heat from the floorboard which can then be felt by passengers inside the vehicle), the starter (which can fail if too much heat is absorbed), and on the exhaust manifold(s) to control heat in the engine compartment.

Original heat shielding put in place by the vehicle manufacturer is there to extend the life of components near it or to insulate heat from inside the passenger compartment. Depending on what the heat shield is protecting high temperatures from can determine its importance. Heat shields that provide a barrier for the starter help to lengthen its usable life and ideally should be kept in place. A heat shield that is removed from around a catalytic converter will most likely create more heat inside the passenger cabin directly above them or any mechanical components nearby such as a transmission in rear wheel drive applications which it helps to keep cool.

When installing car insulation, the first step is to clear the floor of components (seats, console, brackets, carpet, etc.) and any debris. Next, the automotive insulation is mocked into place on the floor and cut to fit contours and anything it will cover. If the heat insulator has adhesives on the back side, make sure the surface is clean so that it will adhere properly. A roller and heat gun also help with adhesion. Once the insulation is installed, the carpet, center console, seats, and other components that were removed can be reinstalled.

If the goal is to keep heat inside the exhaust pipe to improve exhaust gas scavenging and atomization, then high temperature exhaust header wrap material is ideal, which will surround the hot exhaust piping. If you are trying to protect other components from the heat caused by the hot exhaust temperatures, heat shields made from thin metal like aluminum attached either to the exhaust part or the piece needing protection are ideal. Flexible heat sleeving for wiring or hoses needing radiant heat to reflect away are the best option as well.

A JEGS expert is ready to answer your questions and help you find the heat shield or exhaust wrap that you require for your specific application.