DIFFERENT TYPES OF PIR FOAM AND FIRE BEHAVIOR

In this article, I would like to share with you some useful information about PIR foam insulated metal panels. Firstly, we will recap what PIR foam is. Secondly, we will explain what the difference between PIR and PUR foam is.  Finally, you will be able to choose PIR foam insulated panels that best suit your project needs.

WHAT IS A PIR FOAM? WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PIR AND PUR FOAM?

PIR is the acronym of Polyisocyanurate. PIR foams exhibit better fire properties than PUR (Polyurethane) ones, due to the presence of isocyanurate rings. The chemical composition is similar, Polyol and Isocyanate; what changes is the ratio of these components (expressed as isocyanate index).

Although it may seem that the above explanation is worthless, indeed it is vital to understand it.

THERE ARE DIFFERENT TYPES OF PIR FOAM

The critical information I want you to know is that PIR foams are different and have different characteristics. Why is that information relevant to you?

PIR foams are numerous, and they differ in terms of fire behavior. The higher the isocyanate excess, the higher the relative concentration of isocyanurate rings to urethane bonds, the better the fire performance will be.

THE IMPORTANCE OF PIR INDEX

Therefore, when we hear talking about PIR foam, we should ask our suppliers to disclose the PIR index, also called the Polyol and Isocyanate ratio. Why is this important?

Although PIR foams have in general a better fire behavior than PUR foams, some PIR foams have better fire ratings than others. So among the PIR foams, some reach better fire test results than others: those are the ones with a higher index.

CONCLUSION

Most of the users of insulated metal panels have heard about the PIR foam option. After reading this article, you know that there is more than one type of PIR foam. Above all, you know that for safety reasons, it is essential to ask about the PIR index of the insulated panels for your project.

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