Kingspan Thermawall TW55 High performance thermoset PIR insulation
https://www.kingspan.com/gb/en/products/insulation-boards/wall-insulation-boards/thermawall-tw55
The Performance Gap in PIR Insulation
The performance gap arises from several factors that affect the expected versus actual thermal performance of PIR insulation:
1. Installation Issues
- Poor Fitting: Gaps between PIR panels or improper sealing can lead to thermal bridging, where heat bypasses the insulation through uninsulated areas.
- Compression or Deformation: Incorrect handling during installation can compress the foam, reducing its insulating properties.
- Incomplete Coverage: Missing or inadequately placed panels can compromise the insulation’s overall effectiveness.
2. Design Assumptions vs. Reality
- Perfect Conditions Assumption: PIR’s advertised thermal performance is usually based on laboratory tests under ideal conditions. Real-world factors like temperature fluctuations, air infiltration, and humidity can reduce its effectiveness.
- Thermal Bridging: Design may not account for the impact of structural elements like steel or wood studs, which can create paths for heat transfer.
3. Long-Term Performance
- Aging: Over time, PIR insulation may experience a slight decline in thermal performance as a result of gas diffusion, although modern PIR products are designed to minimize this effect.
- Moisture Penetration: While PIR is moisture-resistant, prolonged exposure to water (due to poor sealing or leaks) can degrade its thermal performance.
4. Measurement Challenges
- Lack of On-Site Verification: Many building projects do not rigorously measure the in-situ performance of installed insulation, making it difficult to identify whether the performance gap exists.
- U-Value Calculations: Theoretical U-values may not accurately reflect real-world conditions, especially if installation quality varies.
INSULATION BOARDS
Thermawall TW55 is insulation for timber-frame and steel-frame walls. Its thermal conductivity is 0.022 W/mK. Insulation boards are easy to cut, handle, and install and available in a range of thicknesses.
Product Highlights
â–¶ High-performance thermoset polyisocyanurate (PIR) insulation – thermal conductivity 0.022 W/mK.
â–¶ Suitable for use with timber frame and steel frame wall constructions.
â–¶ It can be used between studs or as an insulating sheathing.
â–¶ Ideal for Modern Methods of Construction (MMC).
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