Heat Shield Uses

• Automotive heat shields are used as a heat barrier by stopping heat before it reaches other places in the vehicle, such as floorboards and firewalls. In semi truck applications, heat shields are placed around the muffler if the truck has side exhaust stacks.
  
  

Performance Benefits

• Engine bay temperatures are reduced when heat shields are placed around the exhaust manifolds. Heat is diverted out and away from the engine bay area. This also lowers the intake air temperature which goes into the combustion chamber. The end result is increased engine power.
  
  

Heat Shield Types

• Two types of heat shields are available, either rigid or flexible. Rigid heat shields are made from aluminum. They are molded around the exhaust components to prevent the heat from escaping while protecting the bodywork. High end rigid heat shields use a heat barrier coating to improve heat insulation. A flexible heat shield is made from thin aluminum sheeting and is sold in a roll or flat pieces. They can be bent by hand or a fitter. High end flexible heat shields include ceramic insulation, which is applied via plasma spraying. This process allows melted or heated materials to be sprayed onto a surface. The coating precursor is heated via an electrical or chemical means.