STILL UNDECIDED AMONG PIR, PUR FOAMS, AND ROCKWOOL INSULATED METAL PANEL?

If you are about to choose which type of insulation to use for your building, then you’ve better read this article. Firstly, I’ll describe the difference between PIR, PUR foams, and Rockwool insulation. Secondly, I will tell you when to use a different type of insulation that can have an insulated metal panel. Finally, you will understand what the insulation power of the Rockwool insulated metal panel is.

Customers frequently ask me about the difference between PIR, PUR foams, and Rockwool insulation when purchasing our insulated metal panels. The fact is that the difference is simple. But still, it’s not easy to decide which type of thermal insulation suits the project needs best.

PUR AND PIR INSULATION MATERIAL

PUR and PIR share the same insulating characteristics; they both are extremely efficient insulating materials. The difference lies in their behavior towards the fire. PUR has a poor fire performance, while PIR can have excellent fire behavior. More advantages of PIR and PUR insulated products we have described here. And here, you can find more information about how to choose PIR foam insulated panels that best suit your project needs.

ROCKWOOL AND ITS INSULATION POWER

Rockwool has a lower thermal insulating power. In other words, one will need more Rockwool to have the same insulation of PUR and PIR foams. What does that mean? It means that one can replace 50mm of PUR or PIR insulation with an 80mm Rockwool sandwich panel. So, why using Rockwool then? Because Rockwool insulation has the best fire performance available and can be rated up to more than 4 hours of fire resistance.

Before choosing between PIR, PUR foams, and Rockwool insulated metal panel answer these questions:

1. Do I need an enhanced fire behavior? Then go for PIR or Rockwool sandwich panels.
2. Do I have specific requirements over fire performance by my insurance? Then consider choosing FM-approved insulated metal panels. In this case, you may be interested when choose FM Approved insulated metal panel for your project?

It’s worth mentioning that when we talk about the reaction to fire, we need clearly understand the difference between the reaction to fire and resistance to fire.

REACTION vs. RESISTANCE TO FIRE

I. REACTION TO FIRE FOR INSULATION MATERIALS

The reaction to the fire test must show the insulation material’s behavior when exposed to a direct flame of ignition.

II. WHAT IS THE RESISTANCE TO FIRE?

The resistance to fire is the ability of a structure or an individual compartment (external wall, beams, doors, and fire barriers, etc..) to resist a determined amount of time to its’: stability, integrity, and isolation capability. Expression in minutes (15, 20, 30, 40, 60, 90, 120, 180, 240, and 360) about the nominal fire curve.

👇🏻 Detailed video with charts about Reaction and Resistance to Fire.

CONCLUSION

Codes and legislation that regulate construction are getting stricter. While talking about the fire behavior of insulated metal panels, fire prevention is what we have to focus on. Now you know that PIR and Rockwool sandwich panel will be the better choice for your project. Also, here, you can find a quick overview of what to consider when choosing an insulated panel for your project.

CONTACT US

If you have a question regarding the sandwich panels, write to us, and we will be happy to answer it. You can get in touch on +44 7887 884768 or complete the form below. You can also contact us via sales@globepanels.com. Once you reach out to us, we can provide you with a quote and can also discuss our products and services further.