"Bill in Schenectady" wrote in message

residential steam pipe (under very little pressure) is only a little
above 212 deg F.

Mark

Does that mean that I can get away with standard hot water pipe foam
insulation? It doesn't seem like I need an industrial solution for a
common household situation (at least in old houses like mine).

Nope. According to this, it is good for 210 degrees. Yu are working with
215 or so.
http://www.acehardware.com/product/i...archId=1306491

This company states NON-steam pipes for their brand
http://amconservationgroup.com/catalog.aspx?catid=103

I'd go with the fiberglass that was recommended. It is easy to install and
will last forever.