Extruded polystyrene (XPS) is one of the frequently-used insulants in cold-service mechanical insulation applications within the ranges of -297°F to 165°F (-183°C to +74°C). XPS is manufactured by both Dow Chemical (blue) and Owens Corning (pink), among others. The physical properties of each manufacturer are materially different, and must be objectively assessed during insulant comparisons and selection.