In insulation, the parameters of thermal performance, conductivity, and resistance are essential to determine the best choice of the insulating material for sandwich panels.
Thermal insulation is the reduction of heat transfer and energy between materials in contact at different temperatures. It means that determining insulation performance also depends on other variables such as mass, weight, density, diffusivity, and heat capacity.
In this blog, we look at the most critical variables that influence insulation performance.
Thermal Conductivity
Thermal conductivity – calculated as the λ (lambda) value (W/mK) – is a measurement of heat transfer through a specific core material. The lower the thermal conductivity, the better the insulation performance.
Thermal Resistance
Thermal resistance – R-value (m²K/W) calculated as Thickness (m) / Conductivity (W/mK) – refers to the material heat resistance per thickness area. The thicker the core material, the lower the heat conductivity.
In this regard, knowing the weight, density and the specific heat capacity of the material is critical to maximising the performance of thermal insulation.
Specifiers who include Isowall in their design brief can be confident that they have chosen the most extensively tested and proven panel system in the marketplace. All enquiries will be dealt with by our experienced and friendly staff who will give you prompt and courteous service.
Density and Specific Heat Capacity
The density (kg/m3) refers to the mass or per unit volume of the insulating material. A high-density material leads to a high thermal mass and thus lower thermal conductivity.
Equally important is the specific heat capacity of the material. A high-insulating material will have a high heat capacity to absorb more heat as temperatures rise to transfer the heat.
Thermal Diffusivity
Thermal diffusivity (mm2/s) – calculated as Thermal Conductivity / Density x Specific Heat Capacity – measures the ability of a material to conduct thermal energy in relation to its capacity to store it. Efficient insulating materials have a low thermal diffusivity.
In conclusion, a high thermal resistance means the material can provide superior insulation compared to a lower figure. Panels with higher thermal resistance offer better insulation properties, which is why the choice of the core material is so important!
Isowall manufactures and distributes Insulated Sandwich Panels as Isopanels. Various facing materials, cores and finishes are available, depending on the application required. Click here to find out more.
Isowall is the supplier of choice within Africa for Insulated Sandwich Panel, EPS and EPP products. Contact us for more information.
