Since 1979, MarShield has been manufacturing radiation shielding products and supplying materials for the nuclear energy, nuclear medicine/radioisotope, diagnostic imaging and NDE industries. From small local site shielding projects to large-scale refuelling outages, we can advise on the best materials to use and can manufacture any configuration for lead blankets to best address your requirements. In addition to our lead wool shielding products, we also produce non-lead radiation shielding.
Our blanket racking systems are used to hang lead or non-lead blankets. For more information on racking, visit our blanket racking systems page.
Lead Wool Blankets for Radiation Shielding
Lead radiation shielding blankets are constructed with lead wool or lead plate. Lead wool consists of fine strands of lead from .005” to .015” diameter, of varying length. Our lead wool products are in accordance with Federal Specification QQ-C-40 Type II Grade C. We compact this interlaced wool in a random orientation to ensure consistent attenuation without streaming. Since lead wool is by nature less dense than lead plate/sheet, the mass equivalence and approximate dose rate reduction for various densities are shown in this table:
| LEAD WOOL | APPROX. FINISHED | %DOSE RATE |
|---|---|---|
| Density (Ib/sq ft) | Blanket Thickness (in) | Reduction (60 Co) |
| 10 | 3/8 | 25% |
| 12.5 | 1/2 | 32% |
| 15 | 5/8 | 35% |
| 20 | 3/4 | 44% |
The mass equivalence and approximate dose rate reduction for various densities of lead plate/sheet is shown in this table:
| LEAD SHEET/PLATE | APPROX. FINISHED | %DOSE RATE |
|---|---|---|
| Density (Ib/sq ft) | Blanket Thickness (in) | Reduction (60 Co) |
| 7.5 | 1/8 | 19% |
| 9.25 | 5/32 | 23% |
| 11 | 3/16 | 27% |
| 15 | 1/4 | 35% |
We can produce shielding blankets made from both lead wool and lead sheet/plate. Lead wool blankets are more pliable than lead sheet blankets.
Where greater shielding is required, multiple blankets can be stacked to achieve a linear reduction in dose rate.
All lead blankets are constructed by encapsulating the lead within an inner cover to contain the lead, and then a heavier outer cover for added protection and durability. Materials used for inner and outer covers can be vinyl-laminated nylon, urethane-laminated nylon, or silicon-impregnated fiberglass fabric (for high temperatures.)
The inner covers of lead wool blankets are sewn in a quilted pattern to prevent shifting of the lead wool when blankets are draped or hung. The materials used for inner covers are typically 10 oz. weight, with heat-sealed seams or sewn seams as appropriate.
Outer covers are made using heavier weight material (typ. 18 oz.), with edge seams heat sealed or sewn as required. Perimeter grommets are installed on the outer cover border edge to facilitate job site placement or hanging from racks. Number 5 grommets (5/8” ID) at 12” spacing are standard. Grommet size, type and spacing can be as specified by your requirements. Standard colours for vinyl-laminate materials are yellow or white, with others available upon request.
The approximate weight of the blankets we produce can be determined by multiplying the dimensions of each blanket by the density – i.e., a 1 ft. x 3 ft. blanket with 15 pounds of lead wool per sq. foot will weigh approximately 45 pounds. A 2 ft. x 3 ft. blanket with 10 pounds of lead wool per sq. foot will weigh approximately 60 pounds, etc.
The standard colour for high temperature material is gray.
Note: Dimensions indicate the size of lead wool “cake.” The outer border edge with grommets extends about 2” beyond lead on all sides. Lead plate blankets in rectangular and gore (tapered) shapes can also be manufactured upon request.
| DIMENSION | 10 Ib/sq ft | 12.5 Ib/sq ft | 15 Ib/sq ft | 20 Ib/sq ft |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1′ x 2′ | LI-202 | LI-212 | LI-222 | LI-232 |
| 1′ x 3′ | LI-203 | LI-213 | LI-223 | LI-233 |
| 1′ x 4′ | LI-204 | LI-214 | LI-224 | LI-234 |
| 1′ x 5′ | LI-205 | LI-215 | LI-225 | LI-235 |
| 1′ x 6′ | LI-206 | LI-216 | LI-226 | LI-236 |
Inquire About Lead Wool Blankets
Lead Plate Blanket
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A lead plate blanket is a versatile solution for radiation shielding, available in various widths, lengths and thicknesses. The lead used meets Federal Spec QQ-L-201, ensuring the highest quality and reliability. These blankets come with a range of covers including PVC laminate, polyurethane laminate, silicone-impregnated fiberglass (hi-temperature) and Kevlar. The covers enhance the durability and longevity of the blanket while ensuring that it remains flexible and easy to handle. Lead plate blankets can also be equipped with Velcro securing straps and grommets in the border to ensure a secure fit and easy installation.Inquire About Lead Plate Blankets
Gore – Lead Plate Blanket, Gore Shape
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A lead plate blanket with a Gore shape, tapered or diamond-shaped design, is a highly customizable solution for radiation shielding. These blankets are available in various widths, lengths, and thicknesses, with lead that meets Federal Spec QQ-L-201 for optimal shielding performance. The covers include PVC laminate, polyurethane laminate, silicone-impregnated fiberglass (hi-temperature), and Kevlar, which enhance durability and ensure flexibility for easy handling. Lead plate blankets with a Gore shape can also be equipped with Velcro securing straps and grommets in the border for a secure fit and easy installation.Inquire About Gore Lead Plate Blankets
Lead Snakes
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Lead snakes are a flexible and versatile solution for radiation shielding, available in various diameters and lengths to meet different requirements. These snakes can be covered with PVC laminate, polyurethane laminate, silicone-impregnated fiberglass (hi-temperature) and Kevlar to enhance their durability and flexibility for easy handling. The ends of the lead snakes are sewn and feature a nickel-plated grommet in the flap located on the top end, which helps secure the snake in place during installation.Lead Wool
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Lead wool is produced to meet Federal Spec QQ-C-40, ensuring the highest quality and reliability. It is available in bulk packs of 25-50 lbs, boxed for easy transportation and handling. Lead wool is a popular choice for filling gaps, seams, and voids in radiation shielding installations, as it can be easily shaped and packed to fit the specific requirements of each project.Wheeled Rack
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These racks measure 6 feet in height and 3 feet in width, providing ample space for storing a range of materials. The racks feature one row of hooks on both sides, with a 4-inch spacing between each hook.Lead Blankets with Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Chips
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MarShield can install RFID chips in your shielding so that each blanket can be separately identified, tracked and located in your facility, work area, or wherever installed. These chips can be integrated for use with your own locating equipment, or we can supply you with scanner units/systems. RFID provides an efficient and automated mechanism for asset tracking and inventory management.Inquire About RFID Chip Blankets
Quick Racks
QuickRack is a versatile new tool for your ALARA toolbox, providing an affordable, lightweight, and efficient solution for quickly hanging shielding materials to protect workers from ionizing radiation sources. With QuickRack, users can now enjoy a more convenient and flexible way of safeguarding against of ionizing radiation.
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Lead Bricks
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Lead bricks are a reliable and durable solution for shielding against ionizing radiation in various settings. These bricks meet Federal Spec QQ-L-201 and are available in various sizes and thicknesses, with or without covers. The covers come in PVC Laminate, Polyurethane Laminate, Silicone-Impregnated Fiberglass (Hi-Temperature), and Kevlar, providing users with flexibility and choice. Alternatively, the bricks can also be coated to protect workers during the usage and/or installation stages.Hooks
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There are several types of hooks available for hanging lead blankets. The JHOOK is a zinc-plated steel hook that is 5/16″ in diameter and 1.5″ deep x 2″ high in the back and 1″ high in the front. The SHOOK is an “S” shaped hook that is made of either 1/2″ diameter stainless steel or carbon steel, with an approximately 2.5″ ID and overall height of approximately 8″. The 2HOOK is a “2” shaped hook that is also made of either 1/2″ diameter stainless steel or carbon steel, with an approximately 2″ ID and overall height of approximately 7″. Custom sizes of hooks for hanging lead blankets are also available.
