FAQ
Does the Insulating Value stay the same when used in
different applications?
No! This is why it is important to do research and match your Insulation type to
your project. some types of insulation perform better in cooling, others in heating.
What type of insulation is
EPS
What is EPS?
Expanded Polystyrene Insulation is more commonly referred to as EPS, is a closed cell insulation that has been around since the 1950's. EPS is made of 98% trapped air and only 2% plastic, making it an efficient insulator with a small amount of raw material.
Styrofoam is often used to describe expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam; however, ‘Styrofoam’ is actually a trademarked term for closed-cell extruded polystyrene foam made for thermal insulation and craft applications. EPS foam is the correct term for any form of expanded polystyrene.
Expanded Polystyrene
Insulation is a lightweight, rigid, closed cell insulation. EPS is available in several compressive strengths to withstand load and back-fill forces. This closed-cell structure provides minimal water absorption and low vapor permanence.
Understanding the Process of manufacturing Expanded Polystyrene
What does R-Value mean?
An insulating material’s resistance to conductive heat flow is measured or rated in terms of its thermal resistance or R-value the higher the R-value, the greater the insulating effectiveness. The R-value depends on the type of insulation, its thickness, and its density. The R-value of most insulations also depends on temperature, aging, and moisture accumulation. When calculating the R-value of a multilayered installation, add the R- values of the individual layers.
Why Is R-value important?
Installing more insulation in your home increases the R-value and the resistance to heat flow. In general, increased insulation thickness will proportionally increase the R-value and, in return, save you money in the long run from energy costs and make for more comfortable living.
Different R-Value testing methods
1. ASTM C 177
Standard Test Method for Steady-State Heat Flux Measurements and Thermal Transmission Properties of the Guarded-Hot-Plate Apparatus. This test measures the steady-state heat flux through homogeneous flat specimens. Two test specimens (as identical as possible) are placed on both sides of a ‘guarded’ hot plate and in contact on the other side with a ‘cold surface assembly.’ This test requires the establishment of steady-state conditions and the measurement of heat flow in one direction. It is used to measure the thermal resistance of thin-sliced test specimens at short time intervals (up to six months). However, its measurements can be used to estimate the predicted aged R-value for longer periods, typically 2.5 to 40 years.
2. ASTM C 518
Standard Test Method for Steady-State Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the Heat Flow Meter Apparatus. This test measures steady-state thermal transmission through flat
slab specimens using a heat flow meter. One test specimen is placed between a cold plate and a hot plate. (One or more heat flux transducers can be employed.) As with ASTM C 177, it is used to measure the thermal resistance of thin-sliced test specimens at short time intervals, but its findings can be used as the foundation for aged values.
3. ASTM C 976
Standard Test Method for Thermal Performance of Building Assemblies by Means of a Calibrated Hot Box. This test measures heat transfer through a specimen under controlled air temperature, air velocity, and radiation conditions established in a metering chamber on one side and in a climatic chamber on the other side. The calibrated hotbox method is
specially suited for large non-homogeneous specimens such as building structures and composite assemblies. It can also be used for measurements of individual building elements such as windows and doors. The chamber can be configured for attics and floors or wall assemblies.
4. ASTM C 1303
Standard Test Method for Estimating the Long-Term Change in the Thermal Resistance of Un faced Rigid Closed Cell Plastic Foams by Slicing and Scaling Under Controlled Laboratory
Conditions. This test allows for estimates of long-term change in thermal resistance of un- faced foam plastic by reducing the sample thickness to accelerate aging under controlled laboratory conditions. Some products, such as
polyisocyanurate (polyiso) board with facers and spray polyurethane foam (SPF), may be inappropriate for this method due to their non-homogenic nature, and their adherence to facers or substrates.
