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
▶ High-performance thermoset polyisocyanurate (PIR) insulation – thermal conductivity 0.022 W/mK.
▶ Suitable for use with timber frame and steel frame wall constructions.
▶ It can be used between studs or as an insulating sheathing.
▶ Ideal for Modern Methods of Construction (MMC).
Product awareness training is delivered by technical experts who provide free onsite instruction and guidance.
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The “performance gap” in relation to PIR (Polyisocyanurate) insulation refers to the disparity between the anticipated thermal performance of the insulation, as calculated in the design stage, and the actual performance it delivers when installed in a building. This gap can occur due to several factors that compromise the effectiveness of PIR insulation, including poor installation practices, incorrect sizing of materials, or the presence of gaps and thermal bridges that are overlooked during the design and construction process.
PIR insulation is highly regarded for its superior thermal resistance, making it an excellent choice for reducing heat loss in buildings and enhancing energy efficiency. However, the material’s full potential can only be realized if installed meticulously. Improperly fitted insulation boards, unsealed edges, or gaps around penetrations can create opportunities for air leakage, significantly reducing overall thermal performance. These oversights can result in a failure to meet the desired energy-saving targets.
Additionally, environmental factors like moisture exposure can exacerbate the performance gap. While PIR insulation is designed to resist moisture, prolonged exposure can degrade its insulating properties over time, further reducing effectiveness. This discrepancy between the predicted and actual performance can have far-reaching consequences, including higher energy consumption, increased operational costs, and discomfort for building occupants due to uneven temperatures or poor thermal efficiency.
To mitigate the performance gap, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. This includes precise attention to detail during the design phase, ensuring all potential issues like thermal bridges and gaps are addressed. Proper training and strict quality control during installation are also vital to ensure that PIR insulation is placed correctly, with no gaps or misalignments. Regular post-installation checks and ongoing maintenance can help maintain the insulation’s effectiveness over time, ensuring it continues to deliver on its promise of energy efficiency and occupant comfort.
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