The issue of building insulation is especially relevant today. On the one hand, there are no big problems with the purchase of thermal insulation material - the construction market offers many options. On the other hand, it is this diversity that gives rise to the problem - which insulation to choose?
What it is?
The problem of thermal insulation of modern buildings (especially urban new buildings) is especially acute today. Thermal insulation is a structural element that allows to reduce the heat transfer rates of materials and the structure (unit) as a whole.
Thermal insulation is also understood as a process that prevents the thermal energy of the structure (refrigeration equipment, heating mains, etc.) and buildings from mixing with the external environment. In other words, the heat-insulating layer has the effect of a thermos.
Thermal insulation provides a comfortable indoor climate, keeping it warm in the cold season and protecting it from excessive heating on hot days.
Using insulation, you can reduce electricity costs by up to 30-40%. In addition, modern heat-insulating materials for the most part have sound-proofing properties. A fairly common practice in the construction of a private house is the use of materials that are both an insulating and a structural element of walls and ceilings.
Depending on the thermal conductivity, the following classes of thermal insulation materials are distinguished:
- class A– materials with low thermal conductivity within 0.06 W/m kV. and below;
- class B- materials with an average thermal conductivity, the indicators of which are 0.06 - 0.115 W / m kV .;
- class C- materials with high thermal conductivity equal to 0.115 -0.175 W / m kV.
There are many ways to install insulation, but they all belong to one of these technologies:
- Monolithic wall- is a brick or wooden partition, the thickness of which for thermal efficiency must be at least 40 cm (depending on the region).
- Multi-layer "pie"- a method in which the insulation is located inside the wall, between the outer and outer partitions. The implementation of this method is possible only at the construction stage or when facing the facade with brickwork (if the strength of the foundation allows or if there is a separate foundation for the masonry).
- External insulation- one of the most popular methods due to its effectiveness, which involves covering the outer walls with insulation, after which they are closed with facade materials. The organization of a ventilated facade allows increasing the thermal insulation performance, when an air gap is maintained between the wall with insulation and the facade finish. The method necessarily involves the use of vapor-permeable and waterproof coatings and films.
- Internal insulation- one of the most difficult and less effective than the external method of insulation. Assumes the insulation of surfaces from the inside of the building.
Characteristics
All types of heaters are characterized by certain properties. The following are common:
- Low thermal conductivity. Thermal efficiency indicators are the main ones when choosing a heater. The lower the coefficient of thermal conductivity (measured in W / (m × K) shows the amount of thermal energy passing through 1 m3 of dry insulation at a temperature difference of 10C), the less heat loss the material has. The warmest is polyurethane foam, which has a thermal conductivity coefficient of 0.03. The average values are about 0.047 (thermal conductivity index of expanded polystyrene, mineral wool grade P-75).
- Hygroscopicity. That is, the ability of the insulation to absorb moisture. High-quality insulation does not absorb moisture or absorbs its minimum amount. Otherwise, wetting of the material cannot be avoided, which means the loss of the main property (thermal efficiency).
- Vapor barrier. The ability to pass water vapor, thereby ensuring the optimal level of humidity in the room and keeping walls or other work surfaces dry.
- Fire resistance. Another important characteristic of the heat-insulating material is resistance to fire. Some materials have a high fire hazard, their combustion temperature can reach 1000 degrees (for example, basalt wool), while others are extremely unstable to high temperatures (polystyrene foam). Modern heaters are mostly self-extinguishing materials. The appearance of an open fire on their surface is almost impossible, and if it does occur, the burning time does not exceed 10 seconds. During combustion, no toxins are released, the mass of the material during combustion is reduced by at least 50%.
When talking about fire resistance, combustion toxicity is usually mentioned. The optimal material is that, even when heated, does not emit dangerous toxic compounds.
- Environmental friendliness. Environmental safety is especially important for materials used indoors. The key to environmental friendliness is usually the naturalness of the composition. So, for example, basalt insulation, which is considered safe from the point of view of environmental friendliness, is made from recycled rocks, expanded clay is made from sintered clay.
- soundproof characteristics. Not all thermal insulation materials can be used for sound insulation. However, most of them have both of these properties, for example, mineral wool insulation, polyurethane foam. But the widely used polystyrene foam does not give the effect of sound insulation.
- Biostability. Another criterion that is important for the buyer is biostability, that is, the resistance of the material to the effects of mold, fungus, the appearance of other microorganisms, rodents. The strength and integrity of the material, and hence its durability, directly depend on biostability.
- Deformation resistance. The insulation must withstand loads, since it can be located on the surface of the floor, loaded structural elements, between partitions. All this dictates the requirements for its resistance to loads and deformations. Resistance largely depends on the density and thickness of the material.
- Durability. The duration of operation largely depends on the thermal efficiency, wet strength, vapor permeability and biostability of the material. For high-quality products (for example, polyurethane foam, basalt wool) a fairly long, up to 50 years, warranty is given. Another factor of durability is compliance with the installation technology and operating conditions.
- Ease of installation and installation. Most heaters have a convenient form of release - in mats, rolls, sheets. Some of them are easily fixed on the insulated surface without requiring special skills and equipment (foam sheets), while others require compliance with certain installation conditions (for example, when working with mineral wool insulation, it is necessary to protect the respiratory system, hands).
There are also types of heaters, the installation of which is possible only by specialists with special equipment (for example, polyurethane foam is sprayed with a special unit, the employee must use a protective suit, goggles and a respirator).
Types of jobs
Thermal insulation is understood as the process of reducing heat losses to the calculated values (individual for each region and objects). This term is similar to the concept of "thermal insulation", which means the protection of an object from the negative exchange of thermal energy with the air. In other words, the task of thermal insulation works is to maintain the specified temperature indicators of the object.
The object may mean residential and administrative buildings, industrial and engineering structures, medical and refrigeration equipment.
If we talk about the thermal insulation of residential and industrial premises, then it can be external (another name is facade insulation) and internal.
Thermal insulation of the outer walls of residential buildings is always preferable to thermal insulation of the internal parts. This is due to the fact that external thermal insulation turns out to be more effective, while internal always remains 8-15% of heat loss.
In addition, the “dew point” during internal insulation shifts inside the insulation, which is fraught with dampness, an increase in the level of humidity in the room, the appearance of mold on the walls, the destruction of the wall surface, and the finish. In other words, the room is still cold (since damp insulation cannot prevent heat loss), but damp.
Finally, the installation of insulation from the inside takes up space, reducing the useful area of the room.
At the same time, there are situations when internal thermal insulation remains the only possible way to normalize the temperature. To avoid the unpleasant consequences of thermal insulation allows strict adherence to installation technologies. Be sure to take care of the vapor and waterproofing of surfaces, as well as high-quality ventilation. A standard supply system is usually not enough, it is required to install a forced air circulation system or use windows with special valves that provide air exchange.
To increase the efficiency of the external insulation, they resort to organizing a ventilated facade system or a three-layer system. In the first case, an air gap is maintained between the insulation and the facing material mounted on a special frame. The three-layer system is wall coverings erected by the well method, between which insulation (expanded clay, perlite, ecowool) is poured.
As for the finish, the facade can be insulated both “wet” (construction mixtures are used) and “dry” facade (fasteners are used) facade.
Often the room requires not only insulation, but also soundproofing. In this case, it is more convenient to use materials that immediately have both heat and sound insulation properties.
Speaking about the insulation of a house inside or outside, it is important to understand that walls are far from the only source of heat loss. In this regard, it is necessary to isolate unheated attics and basements. When using an attic, you should consider a system of multi-layer insulated roofing.
When carrying out internal thermal insulation work, great attention should be paid to the joints between the floor and the wall, the wall and the ceiling, the wall and the partitions. It is in these places that “cold bridges” are most often formed.
In other words, regardless of the type of work performed, it is important to remember that thermal insulation requires an integrated approach.
Variety of materials
All heaters, depending on the raw materials used, are divided into:
- organic(have an environmentally friendly composition - waste from agricultural, woodworking industries, the presence of cement and some types of polymers is acceptable);
- inorganic.
There are also products of a mixed type.
Depending on the principle of operation, heaters are:
- reflective type- reduces heat consumption by directing thermal energy back into the room (for this, the insulation is equipped with a metallized or foil element);
- warning type- are characterized by low thermal conductivity, preventing the release of a large amount of thermal energy beyond the insulated surface.
Let us consider in more detail the most popular types of organic heaters:
Ecowool
Considered cellulose insulation, 80% consists of recycled cellulose. It is an environmentally friendly material with low thermal conductivity, good vapor permeability and sound insulation.
To reduce the combustibility of the material and increase its biostability, the addition of fire retardants and antiseptics to the raw materials allows.
The material is poured into the inter-wall spaces, it is possible to spray onto flat surfaces using a dry or wet method.
Jute
A modern substitute for tow, traditionally used to reduce the heat loss of inter-crown cracks in buildings made of timber. It is produced in the form of tapes or ropes, in addition to high thermal efficiency, does not require replacement even after shrinkage of the walls.
Chipboard
Insulation, 80-90% consisting of small chips. The remaining components are resins, fire retardants, water repellents. It differs not only in good heat and sound insulation properties, it is environmentally friendly, durable.
Despite the treatment with water repellents, it still does not have high wet strength.
Cork
Heat insulator based on cork oak bark, produced in the form of rolls or sheets. It is used only as an internal insulation. It acts as a base for wallpaper, laminate and other floor coverings. It can be used as an independent top coat due to its unusual, but noble appearance. Often they insulate panel houses from the inside.
In addition to thermal efficiency, it provides sound insulation and a decorative effect. The material is hygroscopic, so it can only be mounted on dry surfaces.
Arbolit
Represents blocks from wood-shaving concrete. Thanks to the wood in the composition, it has heat and sound insulating abilities, while the presence of concrete provides moisture resistance, resistance to damage and strength of the material. It is used both as a heater and as independent building blocks. Widely used as a material for frame-panel structures.
The modern market of inorganic thermal insulation materials is somewhat wider:
Styrofoam
Two of its modifications are known - foamed (otherwise - foam plastic) and extruded. It is a set of combined bubbles filled with air. The extruded material is characterized by the fact that each air cavity is isolated from the next.
Polyfoam is suitable for external and internal insulation, characterized by high thermal insulation performance. It is not vapor permeable, therefore it requires a reliable vapor barrier. It is worth noting the low moisture resistance of the foam, which makes it mandatory to install hydroprotection.
In general, the material is affordable, lightweight, easy to cut and install (glue). For the needs of the buyer, the material plates are produced in various dimensions and thicknesses. The latter directly affects the thermal conductivity.
At first glance, foam is a worthy option for insulation. However, it should be remembered that during operation it releases toxic styrene. The most dangerous thing is that the material is subject to combustion. Moreover, the fire rapidly covers the foam, in the process of increasing temperatures, compounds dangerous to human health are released. This was the reason for the ban on the use of foam for residential decoration in some European countries.
Styrofoam is not durable. Already 5-7 years after its use, destructive changes in the structure are detected - cracks and cavities appear. Naturally, even small damages cause tangible heat loss.
Finally, mice love this material enough - they gnaw it, which also does not contribute to long-term operation.
Extruded polystyrene foam is an improved version of styrofoam. And, although its thermal conductivity is slightly higher, the material shows the best indicators of wet strength and fire resistance.
polyurethane foam
Heat insulating material sprayed on the surface. It has the best indicators of thermal efficiency, thanks to the installation method, it forms a uniform hermetic layer on the surface, fills all cracks and seams. This becomes a guarantee of the absence of "cold bridges".
During the spraying process, the material releases toxic components, therefore it is applied only in a protective suit and respirator. As it solidifies, the toxins evaporate, therefore, during operation, the material demonstrates complete environmental safety.
Another advantage is incombustibility, even under the influence of high temperatures, the material does not emit hazardous compounds.
Among the shortcomings, low vapor permeability values can be distinguished, which is why the material is not even recommended to be applied to wooden substrates.
This method of application does not allow to achieve a perfectly even surface, so the use of a contact finish (painting, plastering) is almost always excluded. Leveling (as well as removing a layer of polyurethane foam) is a rather complicated and time-consuming process. The solution will be the use of hinged structures.
Penofol
Universal insulation based on foamed polyethylene. The air chambers from which the material is formed provide low thermal conductivity. The main difference between penofol is the presence of a foil layer on one side, which reflects up to 97% of thermal energy without heating up.
In addition to high thermal insulation values, it demonstrates soundproofing properties. Finally, it does not require the use of vapor barrier and waterproof coatings, it is easy to install.
Among the shortcomings is a higher cost, but it is offset by the impressive heat resistance of the product. Its use allows you to reduce heating costs by a third.
Despite the strength of the material, it is not intended for wallpapering or applying plaster over it. Penofol will not withstand the load and will collapse, so the walls treated with it are closed with drywall. Finishing is already done on it. It can act as a heater not only for walls, but also for the ceiling and floor.
Penofol is an excellent substrate for most floor coverings, as well as a floor heating system.
Fiberboard
It is a wood-based board bonded with a cement composition. Usually used for exterior decoration, they can act as an independent building material.
They are characterized by heat and noise insulation properties, however, they have considerable weight (it is necessary to strengthen the foundation and load-bearing structures), as well as low moisture resistance.
Liquid ceramic insulation
Relatively new insulating material. Outwardly, it resembles acrylic paint (it is applied, by the way, in the same way), which contains vacuumized bubbles. Thanks to them, a thermal insulation effect becomes possible (according to the manufacturers, a layer of 1 mm replaces brickwork one and a half bricks thick).
Ceramic insulation does not require a subsequent layer of finishing and copes well with the function of a finishing material. It is mainly used indoors, since it does not take up usable space.
The wet-resistant layer prolongs the service life of the coating and makes it possible to wet clean it. The material is fire-resistant, non-combustible, moreover, it prevents the spread of flame.
Mineral wool insulation
This type of insulation is distinguished by a fibrous structure - the material is a randomly arranged fibers. Between the latter, air bubbles accumulate, the presence of which provides a heat-insulating effect.
Available in the form of mats, rolls, sheets. Due to the ability to easily restore and retain its shape, the material is easy to transport and store.- it is rolled up and packed in compact boxes, and then it easily takes on a given shape and size. Sheet material is usually thinner than other options.
As a facade coating, tiles, wall panels, siding, corrugated board for external cladding and clapboard or drywall (as cladding) for interior are usually used.
When working, you must take care of the presence of a respirator. During installation, material particles rise into the air. Once in the lungs, they irritate the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract.
Depending on the raw materials used, 3 types of mineral wool are distinguished - based on slag, glass and basalt fibers.
The first type of insulation has high thermal conductivity and the ability to absorb moisture, it is combustible and short-lived, and therefore is rarely used for insulation.
Fiberglass demonstrates the best thermal insulation characteristics, the combustion temperature is 500 degrees. The material does not burn, but shrinks when exposed to temperatures above those indicated.
The material, according to the description of users of biostacks, has an affordable price. Due to its elasticity, it is suitable for finishing buildings and structures of complex shapes and configurations. Among the disadvantages are low water resistance (high-quality waterproofing is required), the ability to release toxic compounds (because of this, it is mainly used for external insulation or requires reliable protection).
Thin and long fibers of glass wool dig into the skin, causing irritation. Finally, having an amorphous component (glass) in its composition, glass wool shrinks, gradually thinning during operation, which causes a decrease in thermal insulation properties.
Basalt wool is obtained during the melting of rocks (basalt, dolomite). Fibers are drawn from the semi-liquid raw material, which are then subjected to pressing and short-term heating. The result is a durable vapor-permeable insulation with low thermal conductivity.
Stone wool is treated with special impregnations, due to which it becomes resistant to moisture. It is an environmentally friendly, non-combustible material with a wide range of applications.
Warm plaster
Plaster and finishing mixture, which contains particles of such heat-insulating materials as perlite, vermiculite.
It has good adhesion, fills cracks and joints, takes the desired shape. Performs 2 functions at once - heat-insulating and decorative. Depending on the place of use, it can be on a cement (for exterior) or gypsum (for interior) bases.
Foam glass
The basis of the material is recycled glass, which is fired in high-temperature furnaces to the state of sintering. The result is a heater, characterized by moisture resistance, high fire safety and biostability.
Possessing record strength indicators among other heaters, the material is easily cut, mounted, and plastered. Release form - blocks.
Vermiculite
It is a loose insulation on a natural basis (processed rocks - mica). They are distinguished by fire resistance (melting point - at least 1000 degrees), vapor permeability and moisture resistance, do not deform and do not settle during operation. Even when wet up to 15%, it is able to maintain its thermal insulation properties.
It is poured into inter-wall spaces or on flat surfaces (for example, an attic) for thermal insulation. Given the high cost of vermiculite, such a method of insulation will not be cheap, so it can often be found as part of warm plasters. In this way, it is possible to reduce the cost of raw materials for thermal insulation, but not to lose the brilliant technical properties of the material.
Expanded clay
Loose insulation known since ancient times. It is based on a special clay, which is sintered in the process of high-temperature firing. The result is extremely light "pebbles" (as well as crushed stone and sand), which have high thermal insulation qualities. The material does not deform, is bioresistant, but extremely hygroscopic.
Expanded polystyrene in granules
The same air capsules that form the basis of polystyrene foam boards. True, here they are not fastened together and are delivered in bags. They have the same characteristics as polystyrene boards - low thermal conductivity, low weight, high fire hazard, lack of vapor permeability.
For insulation, the material should not be poured into voids, but sprayed with a compressor. This is the only way to increase the density of the material, and therefore, to increase its insulating ability.
Penoizol
Outwardly, it looks like small flakes (the material has a finer fraction compared to expanded polystyrene granules, softer). The basis is natural resins. The main advantages are low thermal conductivity, moisture resistance and vapor permeability, fire resistance. It is usually used for walls and ceilings, which are sprayed with special equipment.
Manufacturers
There are a large number of thermal insulation materials on the market today. Choosing the best products is not easy, especially if you are not at all familiar with the brands offered.
However, there are manufacturers whose products are a priori of high quality. Among them is the Danish manufacturer of stone wool Rockwool. The product line is quite wide - a lot of materials of different forms of release, dimensions and density. The most popular is 10 cm cotton wool for outdoor decoration.
Among the most famous lines:
- "Light Batts"- material for warming private houses made of wood;
- "Light Batts Scandik"- material for warming private houses made of stone, concrete, brick;
- "Acustik Batts"- material with improved soundproofing performance, used for insulation of office buildings, shopping and entertainment facilities, industrial facilities.
The rating of manufacturers of mineral wool materials is also invariably headed by the French company Isover. In the product line, you can find a fairly rigid material that is laid on flat horizontal surfaces and does not require fasteners, as well as two-layer facade counterparts. Universal heaters, options for pitched roofs, as well as mats with improved sound insulation characteristics are in demand.
Most of the products are supplied in 7 and 14 meter rolls, the thickness of which is 5-10 cm.
High-class heat and sound-proof materials are produced under the brand name Ursa. On sale you can find the following types of heaters:
- Ursa Geo a series of mats and rolls of various hardness for thermal insulation of all parts of the house, including basements and attics;
- "Ursa Tetra"- plates characterized by high strength and the presence of additional hydrophobic impregnation;
- "Ursa PureOne"- soft fiberglass, the connecting component of which is acrylic. Due to the environmental friendliness of the material, it is suitable for use in hospitals and childcare facilities;
- "Ursa XPS" represents expanded polystyrene plates of the increased rigidity.
The well-known German quality is demonstrated by German-made Knauf products. All the variety of manufactured products can be attributed to one of the series - "Knauf Insulation" (materials for professional insulation of multi-storey residential buildings, hospitals, administrative institutions) or "Heat Knauf" (materials for insulation of private houses).
Brand heaters are considered an excellent solution for organizing a ventilated facade. Izovol. The plates have sufficient rigidity to withstand loads, have moisture-resistant impregnation, and are additionally reinforced with fiberglass. The most popular are the following product lines:
- general technical thermal insulation (universal insulation for the attic and roof, walls, floor);
- technological cylinders and mats with a moisture-resistant foil layer for pipeline insulation;
- slab insulation for the manufacture of sandwich panels;
- heat-insulating mats with improved sound insulation performance.
The leading domestic manufacturer of heaters is the TekhnoNIKOL company. The main direction of production is the production of basalt wool and polystyrene foam insulation. The material is not deformed, withstands heavy loads, has increased soundproofing properties.
Depending on the type of products, the density and thermal conductivity of the material changes. The following types of TechnoNIKOL products are distinguished:
- "Rocklight"- plates with increased strength characteristics and intended for warming a private house;
- "Technoblock"- a material suitable for the installation of facades, acts simultaneously as a structural element and insulation;
- "Teploroll"– mats of an elongated rectangular shape with a reduced content of phenol in the composition;
- "Technoacoustic"- a heat insulator with improved sound insulation performance (reduces noise up to 60 dB), used for soundproofing offices, entertainment facilities.
A worthy place in the ranking of manufacturers of materials for insulation is occupied by the Belarusian company Beltep. Products are only slightly inferior in quality to European counterparts, but have a more affordable cost. Among the advantages - a special hydrophobic impregnation, increased soundproofing qualities.
If you are looking for high-quality and relatively environmentally friendly expanded polystyrene, then you should pay attention to brand products "Europlex". The manufacturer's line includes both foamed and extruded polystyrene foam. The density of the material varies between 30 - 45 kg / m³, depending on the type of product.
There are several size options to choose from. So, the length of products can be 240, 180 and 120 cm, width - 50 or 60 cm, thickness - 3-5 cm.
Extruded polystyrene foam is also distinguished by high strength and increased wet strength. "Penoplex". The experiments carried out demonstrate the frost resistance of the material. Even after 1000 freeze/thaw cycles, the thermal efficiency of the material is reduced by no more than 5%.
As you know, expanded styrene is the cheapest insulation, and since both companies are domestic, we can talk about significant savings.
How to choose?
When choosing a heat-insulating material, it is important to focus on the material from which the walls or other surfaces to be insulated are made.
- For wooden walls, a related cellulose insulation, fiberglass or stone wool is suitable. True, it is necessary to carefully consider the waterproofing system. Jute will help close the interventional gaps. For frame-panel buildings, fiber cement slabs or wood concrete blocks can be used, which will act as structural elements of the walls. Between them, you can fill in bulk insulation (expanded clay, ecowool).
- For external insulation, foam styrene heaters, mineral wool are well suited. When facing such buildings with bricks, it is permissible to fill in expanded clay, perlite, ecowool formed between the facade and the main wall. Well proven polyurethane foam.
- For internal insulation of brick buildings, mineral wool insulation is traditionally used, which are sewn up with plasterboard sheets.
- Concrete surfaces with the worst thermal insulation performance are recommended to be insulated on both sides - external and internal. For external insulation, it is better to choose a ventilated facade system. Warm plaster or hinged panels, siding are suitable as finishing materials. For interior decoration, you can use cork insulation, a thin layer of expanded polystyrene or mineral wool, decorated with drywall.
How to calculate?
Different heaters have different thicknesses, and it is very important to calculate the required insulation parameters before making a purchase. Too thin a layer of insulation will not cope with heat loss, and will also cause the “dew point” to shift inside the room.
An excess layer will not only lead to an unjustified load on the supporting structures and an inappropriate financial expense, but will also cause a violation of the humidity in the room, a temperature imbalance between different rooms.
To calculate the required thickness of the material, it is necessary to set the resistance coefficient of all materials used (insulation, waterproofing, facing layer, etc.).
Another important point is the determination of the material from which the wall is made, since this also directly affects the thickness of the insulation.
Given the type of wall material, conclusions can be drawn about its thermal conductivity and thermal properties. These characteristics can be found in SNiP 2-3-79.
The density of the heat-insulating material may be different, but most often products with a density in the range of 0.6-1000 kg / m 3 are used.
Most modern high-rise buildings are built of concrete blocks, which has the following (important for calculating the thickness of the insulation) indicators:
- GSOP (calculated in degrees-days during the heating season) - 6000.
- Heat transfer resistance - from 3.5 C / m kV. /W (walls), from 6 C/m kV. / W (ceiling).
To bring the heat transfer resistance values for walls and ceilings to the appropriate parameters (3.5 and 6 S/m kV./W), formulas must be used:
- walls: R=3.5-R walls;
- ceiling: R=6-R ceiling.
After the difference is found, the required thickness of the insulation can be calculated. This will help the formula p \u003d R * k, in which p will be the desired thickness indicator, k is the thermal conductivity of the insulation used. If the result is not a round (integer) number, then it should be rounded up.
If self-calculations using formulas seem rather complicated to you, you can use special calculators. They take into account all important calculation criteria. The user only needs to fill in the required fields.
It is best to use those calculators that are created by reputable manufacturers of thermal insulation materials. So, one of the most accurate is the calculator, the developers of which were the Rockwool brand.
- Modern mineral wool insulation is supplied in rolls, mats and sheets. The last 2 delivery options are preferable, since they are easier to join without forming gaps and cracks.
- When installing slab insulation, make sure that their width is 1.5-2 cm greater than the distance between the subsystem profiles. Otherwise, there will be a gap between the heat insulator and the profile, which risks turning into a "cold bridge".
- Warming, which will be preceded by diagnostics, will be much more effective and efficient. To carry it out, use a thermal imager to determine the main areas of "leakage" of heat. This recommendation becomes relevant especially when insulating the internal parts of the building.
- Having identified the main points of heat loss (usually the corners of buildings, the floor or ceiling on the first and last floors, end walls), sometimes it is enough to insulate only them to achieve the optimum temperature in the room.
- Regardless of the method of insulation and the material used, the surface should be carefully prepared - it should be smooth and clean. All existing joints and cracks should be sealed with cement mortar, bumps should be beaten off, communication elements should be removed.
- The final stage of the preparatory work will be the application of a primer in 2-3 layers. It will provide an antiseptic effect, as well as improve the adhesion of surfaces.
- When using lathing from metal profiles, make sure that they have an anti-corrosion coating. Wooden logs for the frame are also subject to treatment with fire retardants and water repellents.
- Mineral wool and felt heaters are stacked in several layers. Coincidence of joints between layers of different layers is unacceptable.
- Most glued insulation (polystyrene foam, mineral wool) need additional fixation with dowels. The latter are attached in the center of the insulating sheet, as well as at 2-3 points along the edges.
- Despite the similarity of liquid ceramics with paint, it cannot be applied with an airbrush and similar devices. Thus, it is possible to damage the ceramic shell, which means depriving the composition of heat-insulating properties. It is better to apply the mixture with a brush or roller.
- If necessary, to give the treated surface a certain shade, ceramic insulation can be diluted with acrylic paint. Apply the composition in 4-5 layers, waiting for each of the coatings to dry.
- Fixing the cork coating can only be carried out on perfectly flat surfaces, otherwise a "cold bridge" will form in the space between the coating and the wall, and condensate will begin to accumulate. If it is impossible to level the walls by plastering, a solid plasterboard frame is mounted, on which a “cork” is glued. For its fastening, special glue is required.
When using foam, it is important to thoroughly clean the surface of the walls from traces of old paint, solvents. It is important to exclude contact of the insulation with gasoline and acetone, since they dissolve polystyrene foam.
Each part of the building needs its own insulation.
- For sloped roof high density basalt slabs are recommended. Expanded polystyrene plates can also be used, but in this case it is important to ensure high-quality ventilation. If installation speed is important, spray polyurethane foam, a cheaper option is ecowool. The layer thickness is usually 100 mm.
- For an unheated attic expanded clay or other bulk materials can be used. A more affordable option is dry sawdust mixed with slaked lime in a ratio of 8: 2. Perlite granules, ecowool or slab insulation are also suitable. The layer thickness when using bulk materials should be at least 200 mm, for plate heaters 100 mm is enough.
- Wall insulation more often produced by means of foam, mineral wool, polyurethane foam spraying or ecowool. You should choose them based on the features of the structure and your own financial capabilities. The most affordable will be polystyrene, more expensive options - mineral wool and polyurethane foam.
- Floor insulation- the question is multi-valued. In a house with a low subfloor, it is more logical to carry out thermal insulation on the ground using bulk materials. Expanded polystyrene is suitable for a concrete screed, if the ceiling height allows - you can fill up with expanded clay (for insulation with expanded polystyrene, 50 mm of layer thickness is enough, while when using expanded clay - at least 200 mm). As a heater between the lags, any material is suitable. The technology is similar to attic insulation.
- For foundation and plinth polyurethane foam and polystyrene foam are applicable. An important nuance is that both materials are destroyed by the action of sunlight, which must be taken into account when insulating the basement.
In the practice of private construction, it is not so common, but there are still situations when heating communications need to be not only spread across the premises of the main house, but also stretched to other nearby buildings. These can be residential outbuildings, outbuildings, summer kitchens, utility or agricultural buildings, for example, used for keeping pets or birds. The option is not excluded when, on the contrary, the autonomous boiler house itself is located in a separate building, at some distance from the main residential building. It happens that the house is connected to the central heating main, from which pipes are stretched to it.
The laying of heating pipes between buildings is possible in two ways - underground (channel or channelless) and open. The process of installing a local heating main above the ground seems less time-consuming, and this option is used more often in conditions of independent construction. One of the main conditions for the efficiency of the system is a properly planned and well-executed thermal insulation for outdoor heating pipes. This is the question that will be considered in this publication.
Why do we need thermal insulation of pipes and the basic requirements for it
It would seem nonsense - why insulate the already almost always hot pipes of the heating system? Perhaps someone can be misled by a kind of "play on words." In the case under consideration, of course, it would be more correct to conduct a conversation using the concept of "thermal insulation".
Thermal insulation work on any pipelines has two main goals:
- If pipes are used in heating or hot water supply systems, then the reduction of heat losses, maintaining the required temperature of the pumped liquid comes to the fore. The same principle is also valid for industrial or laboratory installations, where the technology requires maintaining a certain temperature of the substance transferred through the pipes.
- For pipelines of cold water supply or sewer communications, it is insulation that becomes the main factor, that is, preventing the temperature in the pipes from falling below a critical level, preventing freezing, leading to failure of the system and deformation of the pipes.
By the way, such a precaution is required for both heating mains and hot water pipes - no one is completely immune from emergencies on boiler equipment.
The very cylindrical shape of the pipes predetermines a very large area of constant heat exchange with the environment, which means significant heat losses. And they naturally grow as the diameter of the pipeline increases. The table below clearly shows how the value of heat loss changes depending on the temperature difference inside and outside the pipe (column Δt °), on the diameter of the pipes and on the thickness of the thermal insulation layer (data are given taking into account the use of insulation material with an average thermal conductivity coefficient λ = 0.04 W/m×°C).
| The thickness of the thermal insulation layer. mm | Δt.°С | Pipe outer diameter (mm) | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 | 20 | 25 | 32 | 40 | 50 | 65 | 80 | 100 | 150 | ||
| The amount of heat loss (per 1 linear meter of the pipeline. W). | |||||||||||
| 10 | 20 | 7.2 | 8.4 | 10 | 12 | 13.4 | 16.2 | 19 | 23 | 29 | 41 |
| 30 | 10.7 | 12.6 | 15 | 18 | 20.2 | 24.4 | 29 | 34 | 43 | 61 | |
| 40 | 14.3 | 16.8 | 20 | 24 | 26.8 | 32.5 | 38 | 45 | 57 | 81 | |
| 60 | 21.5 | 25.2 | 30 | 36 | 40.2 | 48.7 | 58 | 68 | 86 | 122 | |
| 20 | 20 | 4.6 | 5.3 | 6.1 | 7.2 | 7.9 | 9.4 | 11 | 13 | 16 | 22 |
| 30 | 6.8 | 7.9 | 9.1 | 10.8 | 11.9 | 14.2 | 16 | 19 | 24 | 33 | |
| 40 | 9.1 | 10.6 | 12.2 | 14.4 | 15.8 | 18.8 | 22 | 25 | 32 | 44 | |
| 60 | 13.6 | 15.7 | 18.2 | 21.6 | 23.9 | 28.2 | 33 | 38 | 48 | 67 | |
| 30 | 20 | 3.6 | 4.1 | 4.7 | 5.5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 16 |
| 30 | 5.4 | 6.1 | 7.1 | 8.2 | 9 | 10.6 | 12 | 14 | 17 | 24 | |
| 40 | 7.3 | 8.31 | 9.5 | 10.9 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 19 | 23 | 31 | |
| 60 | 10.9 | 12.4 | 14.2 | 16.4 | 18 | 21 | 24 | 28 | 34 | 47 | |
| 40 | 20 | 3.1 | 3.5 | 4 | 4.6 | 4.9 | 5.8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 12 |
| 30 | 4.7 | 5.3 | 6 | 6.8 | 7.4 | 8.6 | 10 | 11 | 14 | 19 | |
| 40 | 6.2 | 7.1 | 7.9 | 9.1 | 10 | 11.5 | 13 | 15 | 18 | 25 | |
| 60 | 9.4 | 10.6 | 12 | 13.7 | 14.9 | 17.3 | 20 | 22 | 27 | 37 | |
As the thickness of the insulation layer increases, the total heat loss decreases. However, please note that even a fairly thick layer of 40 mm does not completely eliminate heat loss. There is only one conclusion - it is necessary to strive to use insulating materials with the lowest possible coefficient of thermal conductivity - this is one of the main requirements for thermal insulation of pipelines.
Sometimes a pipe heating system is also required!
When laying water or sewer communications, it happens that, due to the peculiarities of the local climate or specific installation conditions, thermal insulation alone is clearly not enough. We have to resort to forced installation of heating cables - this topic is discussed in more detail in a special publication of our portal.
- The material that is used for thermal insulation of pipes, if possible, should have hydrophobic qualities. There will be little current from a heater soaked with water - it will not prevent heat loss either, and it will soon collapse under the influence of negative temperatures.
- The thermal insulation structure must have reliable external protection. Firstly, it needs protection from atmospheric moisture, especially if a heater is used that can actively absorb water. Secondly, materials should be protected from exposure to the ultraviolet spectrum of sunlight, which is detrimental to them. Thirdly, one should not forget about the wind load that can violate the integrity of thermal insulation. And, fourthly, there remains the factor of external mechanical impact, unintentional, including from animals, or due to banal manifestations of vandalism.
In addition, for any owner of a private house, for sure, the moments of the aesthetic appearance of the laid heating main are also not indifferent.
- Any thermal insulation material used on heating mains must have a range of operating temperatures corresponding to the actual conditions of use.
- An important requirement for the insulation material and its outer lining is the durability of use. No one wants to return to the problems of thermal insulation of pipes even once every few years.
- From a practical point of view, one of the main requirements is the ease of installation of thermal insulation, and in any position and in any complex area. Fortunately, in this regard, manufacturers do not get tired of pleasing user-friendly developments.
- An important requirement for thermal insulation is that its materials must themselves be chemically inert and not enter into any reactions with the pipe surface. Such compatibility is the key to the duration of trouble-free operation.
The issue of cost is also very important. But in this regard, the range of prices for specialized ones is very large.
What materials are used to insulate aboveground heating mains
The choice of thermal insulation materials for heating pipes for their external laying is quite large. They are of a roll type or in the form of mats, they can be given a cylindrical or other figured shape convenient for installation, there are heaters that are applied in liquid form and acquire their properties only after solidification.
Insulation with polyethylene foam
Foamed polyethylene is rightly referred to as a very effective thermal insulator. And more importantly, the cost of this material is one of the lowest.
The coefficient of thermal conductivity of foamed polyethylene is usually in the region of 0.035 W / m × ° C - this is a very good indicator. The smallest gas-filled bubbles isolated from each other create an elastic structure, and with such material, if its rolled version is purchased, it is very convenient to work on pipe sections with complex configurations.
Such a structure becomes a reliable barrier to moisture - with proper installation, neither water nor water vapor can penetrate through it to the pipe walls.
The density of polyethylene foam is low (about 30 - 35 kg / m³), and thermal insulation does not make the pipes heavier.
The material, with some assumption, can be categorized as low hazard in terms of flammability - it usually belongs to class G-2, that is, it is very difficult to ignite, and without an external flame it quickly fades. Moreover, combustion products, unlike many other thermal insulators, do not pose any serious toxic hazard to humans.
Rolled foamed polyethylene for insulation of external heating mains will be both inconvenient and unprofitable - you will have to wind several layers in order to achieve the required thermal insulation thickness. It is much more convenient to use material in the form of sleeves (cylinders), in which an internal channel is provided that corresponds to the diameter of the insulated pipe. For putting on pipes, usually an incision is made along the length of the cylinder on the wall, which, after installation, can be sealed with reliable adhesive tape.
Putting insulation on the pipe is not difficult A more effective type of polyethylene foam is penofol, which has one side. This shiny coating becomes a kind of thermal reflector, which significantly increases the insulating qualities of the material. In addition, it is an additional barrier against moisture penetration.
Penofol can also be of a roll type or in the form of profiled cylindrical elements - especially for thermal insulation of pipes for various purposes.
And all foamed polyethylene for thermal insulation of heating mains is used infrequently. It is more suitable for other communications. The reason for this is the rather low temperature range of operation. So. if you look at the physical characteristics, then the upper limit balances somewhere on the verge of 75 ÷ 85 degrees - higher, violations of the structure and the appearance of deformations are possible. For autonomous heating, most often, such a temperature is enough, however, on the verge, and for central heating, thermal stability is clearly not enough.
Expanded polystyrene insulation elements
The well-known expanded polystyrene (in everyday life it is often called polystyrene) is very widely used for a variety of types of thermal insulation work. Pipe insulation is no exception - for this, special parts are made of foam plastic.
Usually these are semi-cylinders (for pipes of large diameters there may be segments of a third of the circumference, 120 ° each), which are equipped with a tenon-groove lock for assembly into a single structure. This configuration allows you to completely, over the entire surface of the pipe, provide reliable thermal insulation, without the remaining "cold bridges".
In everyday speech, such details are called "shells" - for their clear resemblance to it. Many types of it are produced, for different outer diameters of insulated pipes and different thicknesses of the thermal insulation layer. Usually the length of the parts is 1000 or 2000 mm.
For the manufacture of polystyrene foam type PSB-S of various grades is used - from PSB-S-15 to PSB-S-35. The main parameters of this material are shown in the table below:
| Estimated material parameters | Styrofoam brand | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSB-S-15U | PSB-S-15 | PSB-S-25 | PSB-S-35 | PSB-S-50 | |
| Density (kg/m³) | to 10 | up to 15 | 15.1 ÷ 25 | 25.1 ÷ 35 | 35.1 ÷ 50 |
| Compressive strength at 10% linear deformation (MPa, not less) | 0.05 | 0.06 | 0.08 | 0.16 | 0.2 |
| Bending strength (MPa, not less than) | 0.08 | 0.12 | 0.17 | 0.36 | 0.35 |
| Dry thermal conductivity at 25°C (W/(m×°K)) | 0,043 | 0,042 | 0,039 | 0,037 | 0,036 |
| Water absorption in 24 hours (% by volume, no more) | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Humidity (%, no more) | 2.4 | 2.4 | 2.4 | 2.4 | 2.4 |
The advantages of polystyrene foam as an insulating material have long been known:
- It has a low thermal conductivity.
- The low weight of the material greatly simplifies the insulation work, which does not require any special mechanisms or devices.
- The material is biologically inert - it will not be a breeding ground for the formation of mold or fungus.
- Moisture absorption is negligible.
- The material is easy to cut, fit to the desired size.
- Polyfoam is chemically inert, absolutely safe for pipe walls, no matter what material they are made of.
- One of the key advantages - polystyrene is one of the most inexpensive heaters.
However, it also has many disadvantages:
- First of all, it is a low level of fire safety. The material cannot be called non-combustible and does not spread flame. That is why when using it for warming ground pipelines, fire breaks must be left.
- The material does not have elasticity, and it is convenient to use it only on straight sections of the pipe. True, you can find special curly details.
- Polyfoam does not belong to durable materials - it is easily destroyed under external influence. Ultraviolet radiation also has a negative effect on it. In a word, the above-ground sections of the pipe, insulated with polystyrene shells, will definitely require additional protection in the form of a metal casing.
Usually, in stores that sell foam shells, they also offer galvanized sheets, cut into the desired size, corresponding to the diameter of the insulation. An aluminum shell can also be used, although it is certainly much more expensive. Sheets can be fixed with self-tapping screws or clamps - the resulting casing will simultaneously create anti-vandal, anti-wind, waterproofing protection and a barrier from sunlight.
- And yet even this is not the main thing. The upper limit of normal temperatures for operation is only around 75 ° C, after which linear and spatial deformation of parts can begin. Like it or not, this value may not be enough for heating. Perhaps it makes sense to look for a more reliable option.
Insulation of pipes with mineral wool or products based on it
The most "ancient" method of thermal insulation of external pipelines is with the use of mineral wool. By the way, it is also the most budgetary, if it is not possible to purchase a foam shell.
For thermal insulation of pipelines, various types of mineral wool are used - glass wool, stone (basalt) and slag. Slag wool is the least preferred: firstly, it most actively absorbs moisture, and secondly, its residual acidity can be very destructive to steel pipes. Even the cheapness of this cotton wool does not at all justify the risks of its use.
But mineral wool based on basalt or glass fibers is fully suitable. It has good indicators of thermal resistance to heat transfer, high chemical resistance, the material is elastic, and it is easy to lay it even on complex sections of pipelines. Another advantage - you can be, in principle, completely calm in terms of fire safety. It is almost impossible to heat up mineral wool to the degree of ignition in the conditions of an external heating main. Even exposure to an open flame will not cause the spread of fire. That is why mineral wool is used to fill fire gaps when using other pipe insulation.
The main disadvantage of mineral wool is its high water absorption (basalt is less susceptible to this “ailment”). This means that any pipeline will require mandatory protection from moisture. In addition, the structure of wool is not resistant to mechanical stress, it is easily destroyed, and it should be protected with a strong casing.
Usually, a strong polyethylene film is used, which is securely wrapped with a layer of insulation, with a mandatory overlap of strips by 400 ÷ 500 mm, and then all this is covered with metal sheets from above - exactly by analogy with a polystyrene shell. Roofing material can also be used as a waterproofing - in this case, 100 ÷ 150 mm of overlap of one strip on another will be enough.
The existing GOSTs determine the thickness of protective metal coatings for open sections of pipelines for any type of thermal insulation materials used:
| Cover material | The minimum thickness of the metal, with the outer diameter of the insulation | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 350 or less | Over 350 and up to 600 | Over 600 and up to 1600 | |
| Stainless steel strips and sheets | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0.8 |
| Sheet steel, galvanized or color coated | 0.5 | 0.8 | 0.8 |
| Sheets of aluminum or aluminum alloys | 0.3 | 0.5 | 0.8 |
| Tapes made of aluminum or aluminum alloys | 0.25 | - | - |
Thus, despite the seemingly inexpensive price of the insulation itself, its full installation will require considerable additional costs.
Mineral wool for pipeline insulation can also act in a different capacity - it serves as a material for the manufacture of finished thermal insulation parts, by analogy with polyethylene foam cylinders. Moreover, such products are produced both for straight sections of pipelines, and for turns, tees, etc.
Typically, such insulating parts are made of the most dense - basalt mineral wool, have an external foil coating, which immediately removes the problem of waterproofing and increases the efficiency of insulation. But you still won’t be able to get away from the outer casing - a thin layer of foil will not protect against accidental or intentional mechanical impact.
Warming of the heating main with polyurethane foam
One of the most effective and safest modern insulation materials in operation is polyurethane foam. He has a lot of various advantages, so the material is used on almost any structure that requires reliable insulation.
What are the features of polyurethane foam insulation?
Polyurethane foam for insulation of pipelines can be used in various forms.
- PPU-shell is widely used, usually having an external foil coating. It can be collapsible, consisting of half-cylinders with tongue-and-groove locks, or, for pipes of small diameter, with a cut along the length and a special valve with a self-adhesive back surface, which greatly simplifies the installation of insulation.
- Another way to insulate a heating main with polyurethane foam is to spray it in liquid form using special equipment. The resulting foam layer after complete hardening becomes an excellent insulation. This technology is especially convenient at complex interchanges, pipe bends, in nodes with shut-off and control valves, etc.
The advantage of this technology is also that due to the excellent adhesion of polyurethane foam spraying to the pipe surface, excellent waterproofing and corrosion protection are created. True, polyurethane foam itself also requires mandatory protection - from ultraviolet rays, so again it will not be possible to do without a casing.
- Well, if you need to lay a sufficiently long heating main, then probably the best choice would be to use pre-insulated (pre-insulated) pipes.
In fact, such pipes are a multilayer structure assembled at the factory:
- The inner layer is, in fact, the steel pipe itself of the required diameter, through which the coolant is pumped.
- External coating - protective. It can be polymeric (for laying a heating main in the thickness of the soil) or galvanized metal - what is required for open sections of the pipeline.
- Between the pipe and the casing, a monolithic, seamless layer of polyurethane foam is poured, which performs the function of effective thermal insulation.
An assembly section was left at both ends of the pipe for welding during the assembly of the heating main. Its length is calculated in such a way that the heat flux from the welding arc will not damage the polyurethane foam layer.
After the installation, the remaining non-insulated areas are primed, covered with a polyurethane foam shell, and then with metal belts, comparing the coating with the common outer casing of the pipe. Often, it is in such areas that fire breaks are organized - they are densely filled with mineral wool, then they are waterproofed with roofing material and still covered with a steel or aluminum casing from above.
The standards establish a certain assortment of such sandwich pipes, that is, it is possible to purchase products of the desired nominal diameter with optimal (normal or reinforced) thermal insulation.
| Steel pipe outer diameter and minimum wall thickness (mm) | Dimensions of galvanized sheet steel sheath | Estimated thickness of the thermal insulation layer of polyurethane foam (mm) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| nominal outside diameter (mm) | minimum thickness of steel sheet (mm) | ||
| 32×3.0 | 100; 125; 140 | 0.55 | 46,0; 53,5 |
| 38×3.0 | 125; 140 | 0.55 | 43,0; 50,5 |
| 45×3.0 | 125; 140 | 0.55 | 39,5; 47,0 |
| 57×3.0 | 140 | 0.55 | 40.9 |
| 76×3.0 | 160 | 0.55 | 41.4 |
| 89×4.0 | 180 | 0.6 | 44.9 |
| 108×4.0 | 200 | 0.6 | 45.4 |
| 133×4.0 | 225 | 0.6 | 45.4 |
| 159×4.5 | 250 | 0.7 | 44.8 |
| 219×6.0 | 315 | 0.7 | 47.3 |
| 273×7.0 | 400 | 0.8 | 62.7 |
| 325×7.0 | 450 | 0.8 | 61.7 |
Manufacturers offer such sandwich pipes not only for straight sections, but also for tees, bends, expansion joints, etc.
The cost of such pre-insulated pipes is quite high, but with their purchase and installation, a whole range of problems is solved at once. So these costs seem to be quite justified.
Video: production process of pre-insulated pipes
Insulation - foamed rubber
Recently, thermal insulation materials and products made of synthetic foam rubber have become very popular. This material has a number of advantages that bring it to a leading position in the issues of insulation of pipelines, including not only heating mains, but also more responsible ones - on complex technological lines, in machine, aircraft and shipbuilding:
- Foamed rubber is very elastic, but at the same time it has a large margin of tensile strength.
- The density of the material is only from 40 to 80 kg / m³.
- The low thermal conductivity provides very effective thermal insulation.
- The material does not shrink over time, completely retaining its original shape and volume.
- Foamed rubber is difficult to ignite and has the property of rapid self-extinguishing.
- The material is chemically and biologically inert, it never contains any foci of mold or fungus, or nests of insects or
- The most important quality is almost absolute water and vapor impermeability. Thus, the insulation layer immediately becomes an excellent waterproofing for the pipe surface.
Such thermal insulation can be produced in the form of hollow tubes with an internal diameter of 6 to 160 mm and a layer thickness of insulation from 6 to 32 mm, or in the form of sheets, which are often given the function of “self-adhesive” on one side.
| The name of indicators | Values |
|---|---|
| Length of finished tubes, mm: | 1000 or 2000 |
| Colour | black or silver, depending on the type of protective coating |
| Temperature range of application: | from - 50 to + 110 °С |
| Thermal conductivity, W / (m × ° С): | λ≤0.036 at 0°C |
| λ≤0.039 at +40°C | |
| Vapor permeability coefficient: | μ≥7000 |
| Degree of fire hazard | Group G1 |
| Permissible length change: | ±1.5% |
But for outdoor heating mains, ready-made insulation elements made using the Armaflex ACE technology, with a special protective coating ArmaChek, are especially convenient.
Coating "ArmaChek" can be of several types, for example:
- Arma-Chek Silver is a multi-layered PVC-based shell with a silver reflective coating. This coating provides excellent insulation protection against both mechanical stress and ultraviolet rays.
- The black "Arma-Chek D" finish has a high strength fiberglass backing that retains excellent flexibility. This is an excellent protection against all possible chemical, weather, mechanical influences, which will keep the heating pipe intact.
Typically, such products using ArmaChek technology have self-adhesive valves that hermetically “seal” the insulating cylinder on the pipe body. Figured elements are also produced, allowing installation on difficult sections of the heating main. Skillful use of such thermal insulation allows you to quickly and reliably mount it without resorting to the creation of an additional external protective casing - there is simply no need for it.
Probably the only thing that hinders the widespread use of such thermal insulation products for pipelines is the still prohibitively high price for real, "brand" products.
Prices for thermal insulation for pipes
Thermal insulation for pipes
A new direction in insulation - heat-insulating paint
You can not miss another modern technology of insulation. And it is all the more pleasant to talk about it, since it is the development of Russian scientists. We are talking about ceramic liquid insulation, which is also known as heat-insulating paint.
This, without any doubt, is an "alien" from the field of space technology. It is in this scientific and technical branch that the issues of thermal insulation from critically low (in open space) or high (during the launch of ships and landing of descent vehicles) are especially acute.
The thermal insulation qualities of ultra-thin coatings seem simply fantastic. At the same time, such a coating becomes an excellent hydro and vapor barrier, protecting the pipe from all possible external influences. Well, the heating main itself takes on a well-groomed, pleasing look.
The paint itself is a suspension of microscopic, vacuum-filled silicone and ceramic capsules, suspended in a liquid state in a special composition, including acrylic, rubber and other components. After applying and drying the composition, a thin elastic film is formed on the surface of the pipe, which has outstanding thermal insulation qualities.
| Names of indicators | unit of measurement | Value |
|---|---|---|
| paint color | white (can be customized) | |
| Appearance after application and complete curing | matt, even, uniform surface | |
| Flexural elasticity of the film | mm | 1 |
| Adhesion of the coating according to the force of separation from the painted surface | ||
| - to the concrete surface | MPa | 1.28 |
| - to the brick surface | MPa | 2 |
| - to steel | MPa | 1.2 |
| Coating resistance to temperature difference from -40 °С to + 80 °С | without changes | |
| Resistance of the coating to the effects of temperature +200 °C for 1.5 hours | no yellowing, cracks, peeling or blisters | |
| Durability for concrete and metal surfaces in a moderately cold climatic region (Moscow) | years | at least 10 |
| Thermal conductivity | W/m °C | 0,0012 |
| Vapor permeability | mg/m × h × Pa | 0.03 |
| Water absorption in 24 hours | % by volume | 2 |
| Operating temperature range | °C | from - 60 to + 260 |
Such a coating does not require additional protective layers - it is strong enough to cope with all the impacts on its own.
Such a liquid insulation is sold in plastic cans (buckets), like ordinary paint. There are several manufacturers, and among the domestic brands, the brands "Bronya" and "Korund" can be especially noted.
Such thermal paint can be applied by aerosol spraying or in the usual way - with a roller and brush. The number of layers depends on the operating conditions of the heating main, the climatic region, the diameter of the pipes, the average temperature of the pumped coolant.
Many experts believe that such heaters will eventually replace the usual thermal insulation materials on a mineral or organic basis.
Video: presentation of ultra-thin thermal insulation brand "Korund"
Thermal insulation paint prices
Thermal insulation paint
What thickness of heating mains insulation is required
Summing up the review of the materials used for thermal insulation of heating pipes, you can see the performance indicators of the most popular of them in the table - for clarity of comparison:
| Thermal insulation material or product | Average density in finished structure, kg/m3 | Thermal conductivity of thermal insulation material (W/(m×°C)) for surfaces with temperature (°C) | Operating temperature range, °C | Flammability group | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 and up | 19 and below | ||||
| Mineral wool pierced plates | 120 | 0,045 | 0.044 ÷ 0.035 | From - 180 to + 450 for mats, on fabric, mesh, fiberglass canvas; up to + 700 - on a metal grid | non-combustible |
| 150 | 0,05 | 0.048 ÷ 0.037 | |||
| Heat-insulating slabs of mineral wool on a synthetic binder | 65 | 0.04 | 0.039 ÷ 0.03 | From - 60 to + 400 | non-combustible |
| 95 | 0,043 | 0.042 ÷ 0.031 | |||
| 120 | 0,044 | 0.043 ÷ 0.032 | From - 180 + 400 | ||
| 180 | 0,052 | 0.051 ÷ 0.038 | |||
| Thermal insulation products made of foamed ethylene-polypropylene rubber Aeroflex | 60 | 0,034 | 0,033 | From - 55 to + 125 | Slightly combustible |
| Semi-cylinders and mineral wool cylinders | 50 | 0,04 | 0.039 ÷ 0.029 | From - 180 to + 400 | non-combustible |
| 80 | 0,044 | 0.043 ÷ 0.032 | |||
| 100 | 0,049 | 0.048 ÷ 0.036 | |||
| 150 | 0,05 | 0.049 ÷ 0.035 | |||
| 200 | 0,053 | 0.052 ÷ 0.038 | |||
| Thermal insulation cord made of mineral wool | 200 | 0,056 | 0.055 ÷ 0.04 | From - 180 to + 600 depending on the material of the mesh tube | In mesh tubes made of metal wire and glass thread - non-combustible, the rest are slightly combustible |
| Glass staple fiber mats with synthetic binder | 50 | 0,04 | 0.039 ÷ 0.029 | From - 60 to + 180 | non-combustible |
| 70 | 0,042 | 0.041 ÷ 0.03 | |||
| Mats and wool made of superfine glass fiber without binder | 70 | 0,033 | 0.032 ÷ 0.024 | From - 180 to + 400 | non-combustible |
| Mats and wool made of super-thin basalt fiber without a binder | 80 | 0,032 | 0.031 ÷ 0.024 | From - 180 to + 600 | Non-combustible |
| Perlite sand, expanded, fine | 110 | 0,052 | 0.051 ÷ 0.038 | From - 180 to + 875 | non-combustible |
| 150 | 0,055 | 0.054 ÷ 0.04 | |||
| 225 | 0,058 | 0.057 ÷ 0.042 | |||
| Thermal insulation products made of expanded polystyrene | 30 | 0,033 | 0.032 ÷ 0.024 | From - 180 to + 70 | combustible |
| 50 | 0,036 | 0.035 ÷ 0.026 | |||
| 100 | 0,041 | 0.04 ÷ 0.03 | |||
| Thermal insulation products made of polyurethane foam | 40 | 0,030 | 0.029 ÷ 0.024 | From - 180 to + 130 | combustible |
| 50 | 0,032 | 0.031 ÷ 0.025 | |||
| 70 | 0,037 | 0.036 ÷ 0.027 | |||
| Thermal insulation products made of polyethylene foam | 50 | 0,035 | 0,033 | From - 70 to + 70 | combustible |
But for sure, an inquisitive reader will ask: where is the answer to one of the main questions that arise - what should be the thickness of the insulation?
This question is quite complex, and there is no single answer to it. If you wish, you can use cumbersome calculation formulas, but they are probably understandable only to qualified heating engineers. However, not everything is so scary.
Manufacturers of finished thermal insulation products (shells, cylinders, etc.) usually lay down the required thickness, calculated for a particular region. And if mineral wool insulation is used, then you can use the data of the tables that are given in a special Code of Rules, which is designed specifically for thermal insulation of pipelines and process equipment. This document is easy to find on the web by entering a search query "SP 41-103-2000".
Here, for example, is a table from this handbook regarding the above-ground placement of the pipeline in the Central region of Russia, using mats made of glass staple fiber grade M-35, 50:
| Outer diameter pipeline, mm | Type of heating pipe | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| innings | return line | innings | return line | innings | return line | |
| Average temperature mode of the coolant, °C | ||||||
| 65 | 50 | 90 | 50 | 110 | 50 | |
| Required insulation thickness, mm | ||||||
| 45 | 50 | 50 | 45 | 45 | 40 | 40 |
| 57 | 58 | 58 | 48 | 48 | 45 | 45 |
| 76 | 67 | 67 | 51 | 51 | 50 | 50 |
| 89 | 66 | 66 | 53 | 53 | 50 | 50 |
| 108 | 62 | 62 | 58 | 58 | 55 | 55 |
| 133 | 68 | 68 | 65 | 65 | 61 | 61 |
| 159 | 74 | 74 | 64 | 64 | 68 | 68 |
| 219 | 78 | 78 | 76 | 76 | 82 | 82 |
| 273 | 82 | 82 | 84 | 84 | 92 | 92 |
| 325 | 80 | 80 | 87 | 87 | 93 | 93 |
Similarly, you can find the desired parameters for other materials. By the way, the same Code of Rules does not recommend significantly exceeding the specified thickness. Moreover, the maximum values of the insulation layer for pipelines are also determined:
| Outer diameter of the pipeline, mm | Maximum thickness of the thermal insulation layer, mm | |
|---|---|---|
| temperature 19 ° C and below | temperature 20 ° C or more | |
| 18 | 80 | 80 |
| 25 | 120 | 120 |
| 32 | 140 | 140 |
| 45 | 140 | 140 |
| 57 | 150 | 150 |
| 76 | 160 | 160 |
| 89 | 180 | 170 |
| 108 | 180 | 180 |
| 133 | 200 | 200 |
| 159 | 220 | 220 |
| 219 | 230 | 230 |
| 273 | 240 | 230 |
| 325 | 240 | 240 |
However, do not forget about one important nuance. The fact is that any insulation with a fibrous structure inevitably shrinks over time. And this means that after a certain period of time, its thickness may become insufficient for reliable thermal insulation of the heating main. There is only one way out - even when installing insulation, immediately take into account this amendment for shrinkage.
To calculate, you can apply the following formula:
H = ((D + h) : (D + 2 h)) × h× Kc
H- the thickness of the mineral wool layer, taking into account the correction for compaction.
D- outer diameter of the pipe to be insulated;
h- the required thickness of insulation according to the table of the Code of Practice.
Ks- coefficient of shrinkage (compaction) of fibrous insulation. It is a calculated constant whose value can be taken from the table below:
| Thermal insulation materials and products | Compaction factor Kc. |
|---|---|
| Mineral wool mats | 1.2 |
| Heat-insulating mats "TEHMAT" | 1.35 ÷ 1.2 |
| Mats and canvases made of super-thin basalt fiber when laying on pipelines and equipment with nominal diameter, mm: | |
| Doo | 3 |
| 1,5 | |
| DN ≥ 800 at an average density of 23 kg/m3 | 2 |
| ̶ the same, with an average density of 50-60 kg/m3 | 1,5 |
| Mats made of glass staple fiber on a synthetic binder brand: | |
| M-45, 35, 25 | 1.6 |
| M-15 | 2.6 |
| Glass staple fiber mats "URSA" brand: | |
| M-11: | |
| ̶ for pipes with DN up to 40 mm | 4,0 |
| ̶ for pipes with DN from 50 mm and above | 3,6 |
| M-15, M-17 | 2.6 |
| M-25: | |
| ̶ for pipes with DN up to 100 mm | 1,8 |
| ̶ for pipes with DN from 100 to 250 mm | 1,6 |
| ̶ for pipes with DN over 250 mm | 1,5 |
| Mineral wool boards on a synthetic binder brand: | |
| 35, 50 | 1.5 |
| 75 | 1.2 |
| 100 | 1.10 |
| 125 | 1.05 |
| Glass staple fiber board grades: | |
| P-30 | 1.1 |
| P-15, P-17 and P-20 | 1.2 |
To help the interested reader, a special calculator is placed below, in which the indicated ratio is already included. It is worth entering the requested parameters - and immediately get the required thickness of mineral wool insulation, taking into account the amendment.
Nowadays, thanks to new technologies, there are more and more different modern insulation materials with improved characteristics. Liquid thermal insulation for walls is one of the relatively new developments that will significantly speed up and facilitate the process of wall insulation both outside and inside the building.
Comfort in an apartment or house directly depends on the normal temperature in the rooms, therefore, the vast majority of owners of houses and apartments are thinking about the thermal insulation of walls today. Modern technologies make it possible to provide external thermal insulation of the surfaces of the house, even if the apartment is located on one of the upper floors - for this, not only heaters in the form of plates or mats are used, but also liquid compositions that are easier to use.
As a result of carrying out such thermal insulation work outside the building, the generated heat will be stored inside it, preventing the premises from cooling down in the winter and even overheating on hot summer days. In addition, liquid insulation is able to protect walls from moisture penetration and temperature changes, thereby preventing the erosion of building materials, the appearance of condensate and mold colonies on the load-bearing walls.
What can be attributed to liquid heaters?
Today on the market you can find several types of liquid heaters made on the basis of various materials and differing in application technology.
- liquid ceramic compositions;
- liquid polystyrene foam or penoizol;
- sprayed ecowool.
Each of the materials has its own characteristics, its own "pluses" and "minuses", differences in the field of application. What unites these heaters is the ease of application to the surface, which does not take much time. So, using such materials, the process of thermal insulation of even large areas is quite possible to carry out in just one day.
You might be interested in knowing which one is right for you.
Unfortunately, not all liquid heat insulators can be applied without the use of special equipment. In this regard, it will be necessary to invite specialists who have the technological skills to perform the work and who have special installations for applying liquid material to carry out the work.
Before applying any of these thermal insulation compounds, the surface of the walls must be prepared by cleaning it from dirt and dust deposits, etc. if necessary, making repairs in the form of sealing cracks, protrusions and recesses. However, for some types of liquid insulation, it is not necessary to repair surfaces, since the applied materials themselves are able to close or fill all existing gaps, gaps at the joints of building structures and other surface flaws that appeared, for example, during shrinkage of a building. But in any case, the cleaned and prepared walls will have better adhesion to the liquid insulation material, which will improve the quality of thermal insulation and reduce heating costs.
To understand what the various types of such liquid heaters are, and what are the features of their application, each of them should be considered in more detail.
Liquid ceramic wall insulation
Ceramic liquid insulation material in appearance practically does not differ from thick acrylic paint. Nowadays, several compositions are presented on the building materials market with different names, but approximately the same structure and consistency:
- The binding basis of the compositions of ceramic liquid thermal insulation is a water-acrylic mixture that promotes adhesion of the insulation to the wall and uniform distribution of heat-insulating components on its surface.
- Additional components are introduced into the water-acrylic mixture, which improve the quality and performance of the heat insulator. Most often, such additives are natural and artificial rubbers, silicone, as well as materials similar to them, which give the composition elasticity and water resistance.
- Ceramic granules are the main component that helps to reduce the heat loss of the insulated surface. The granules are microscopic in size and perfectly spherical in shape, filled with highly rarefied air (gas), which provides high thermal insulation performance and makes it possible to spread the mixture over the wall surface in a thin layer. Ceramic granules make up 80% of the total volume of the thermal insulation material, so its consistency resembles a thick dough or paste.
A high-quality ceramic liquid heat-insulating material is considered to be one in which, after complete polymerization, the percentage of voids in the layer applied to the surface will be 75-80%, which makes it possible to create an ultra-thin layer with a very high resistance to heat transfer between the wall surface and the outer surface of the applied insulation.
It should be noted that the proportions of the components of this material are in principle approximately the same, regardless of its manufacturer, brand and name. The difference can only be in the quality of the raw materials used and the manufacturing technology of the mixture.
Prices for liquid thermal insulation
liquid thermal insulation
Popular liquid ceramic heat insulators
Today, many different ceramic liquid heaters are produced for thermal insulation of walls and other building structures, and several of them have gained the greatest popularity and are used most often.
These heaters are divided into brands depending on the purposes, conditions of application and subsequent operation, on the surface materials for which they are intended. For example, some of them can be applied only at positive, and others at negative ambient temperatures. There are materials intended for insulating metal structures, even those covered with a layer of corrosion, or for thermal insulation of brick or concrete walls.
Typically, such a heat insulator is applied in several layers, the thickness of each of which can be from 0.4 to 1.0 mm, and requires drying during the day.
The most popular are the following compositions:
"Astratek"
This liquid insulation composition, produced by the Russian company Astratek, has the consistency of a homogeneous suspension, so it can be applied not only with a brush, but also by spraying using spray guns. The heat insulator of this brand is produced for different surfaces - these are "Facade", "Metal", "Anti-condensate", "Universal".
Liquid thermal insulation coating "Astratek"
"Astratek" can be used for thermal insulation of surfaces that warm up during operation to a temperature of 150 degrees, and the elements coated with this composition are able to withstand thermal drops from -60 to +250 degrees. The insulation can be applied in several layers, each of which should be no more than 0.4 mm thick. The total thickness of the coating is usually at least 3 mm.
Prices for liquid thermal insulation MAGNITERM
Liquid thermal insulation MAGNITERM
With these parameters and high-quality application, the manufacturer has set the service life of the material up to 30 years. The suspension consumption per one layer with a thickness of 0.4 mm is 1 liter. by 1.5-2.0 m².
Comparative table of the parameters of the Astratek insulation and two other popular heaters - sprayed polystyrene foam (penoizol) and mineral wool of the URSA brand (average prices in rubles for 2016 are taken). For comparison, the consumption and cost of work during the application (installation) of an insulating layer with equal indicators of heat transfer resistance - 1.5 m² × ° C / W are shown. The average prices in rubles for February 2016 are taken.
| Compared parameter | Type of thermal insulation material | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| "Astratek" | Styrofoam | Mineral wool "URSA" | |
| Thermal conductivity W/m C | 0.0012 | 0.04 | 0.044 |
| Achievable thermal resistance, m²×°С/W | 1.25 | 1.25 | 1.25 |
| at layer thickness, mm | 1.5 | 50 | 55 |
| Price 1 l. (1 dm³) in rub. | 430 | 1450 | 70 |
| Consumption 1 m² | 1.5 kg | 1.0 l | 1.0 kg |
| Approximate cost of additional materials, rub | 0 | 500 | 600 |
| The cost of materials per 1 m² of insulation, rub. | 645 | 1450 | 70 |
| The cost of work 1 m², rub. | 150 | 600 | 600 |
| Total cost of 1 m², rub. | 795 | 2550 | 1270 |
| Costs per 1 m², "Astratek" in comparison with other heaters. | 1 | 3.21 | 1.6 |
- "Astratek - Metal" is designed for thermal insulation of pipes for cold and hot water supply. The coating significantly reduces heat loss, prevents the formation of condensate on pipe surfaces, and also reduces the surface temperature of hot pipes.
Heating main pipe insulated with Astratek compound
This heat insulator is also perfect for insulating garage doors, especially since the owner himself can easily carry out this work. To do this, you just need to take a brush, roller or spray gun and apply the suspension to the surface.
- "Astratek - Facade" - this insulation is used to insulate external walls built of brick or concrete.
- "Astratek - Universal" is suitable for warming any surfaces: both metal and concrete or brick.
Akterm
Akterm liquid heaters have excellent characteristics and have a wide technological potential, since the Russian company Akterm LLC produces thirteen different modifications of insulating compounds. So, they can be designed not only for thermal insulation, but also for waterproofing work. It should be noted that this type of liquid insulation material can be applied both inside and outside the building.
Factory packaging of Akterm liquid thermal insulation compound
- "Akterm - Concrete"
This composition is used for thermal insulation of surfaces made of limestone, concrete and brick, and is able to protect them from freezing and condensation. In addition, the composition of the suspension includes inhibitors against mold and mildew, but it does not contain volatile compounds and organic solvents. Because of this, it can be used to insulate rooms from the inside. So, it is used for:
- Thermal insulation of balconies, loggias and cellars.
- Insulation and insulation of interpanel seams.
- Preservation of heat inside the building and to prevent the formation of frost and mold colonies.
- Waterproofing and insulation of window and door slopes.
- "Akterm - Metal" and "Akterm Antikor"
These compounds have all the qualities of the above suspension and have the same consistency, but, in addition, the coating they create is vapor-tight, weather-resistant, UV-resistant, high adhesion to metal surfaces, and creates a protective coating against burns.
"Akterm" provides both thermal insulation of metal structures and their protection against corrosion
Such heat insulators are used in the following areas:
— Warming of domestic and industrial cold and hot pipelines.
— Creation of a protective coating against overheating of metal structures.
– Thermal insulation of not only metal surfaces, but also those made of plastic and glass.
- Application of insulation to the roof covering from corrugated board or metal tiles.
— Thermal insulation of cooling systems, air conditioning, ventilation and the like.
— Thermal and waterproofing of motor vehicle bodies.
- "Akterm - Facade"
Insulation of facade walls with liquid thermal insulation "Akterm"
In addition, this composition has the qualities of a high-quality facade paint, to which various colors can be added. After drying, Akterm layers do not require additional protection from aggressive external influences and mechanical loads.
The scope of this composition:
— Warming of facades of various buildings.
- Thermal insulation of balconies and loggias from the outside.
– Insulation and waterproofing of joints between panels, slabs or building blocks.
- Waterproofing and insulation of window and door slopes.
- "Akterm - Standard"
This mixture has the same high qualities as the previous materials used for thermal insulation of walls from the outside and from the inside. It is used for the following finishing activities:
– Heat and sound insulation, as well as waterproofing of residential and non-residential buildings.
— Protection of buildings from ultraviolet rays and other negative environmental influences.
- Hydro and thermal insulation of loggias, balconies and basements.
— Warming of front parts of houses.
– Thermal insulation of various pipelines, metal structures and structures.
- "Akterm - Nord"
This type of coating is on an organic basis and is intended for use in conditions of extreme winter temperatures up to -30÷50 degrees, at which the material does not lose its performance. Such a heater can be used for surfaces made from the most materials.
The scope of this composition is quite wide, from the insulation of the facades of various buildings to any roofing materials, and from metal structures to pipelines.
- Other compositions of "Akterm"
In addition to the above, Akterm produces special compounds for use in various areas of construction and industry, for a variety of operating conditions:
— "Akterm - Volcano"- thermal insulation composition that can withstand temperatures up to +600 degrees. It is used in various areas for application to the external surfaces of buildings or technological installations.
— "Akterm - Anticondensate"- protection of surfaces from condensate. It can be used both indoors and outdoors, as it does not contain organic solvents and volatile compounds - this composition is absolutely non-toxic and safe.
— "Akterm - paint NG"- thermal insulating mixture, corresponding to the characteristics of the "Standard" composition, but with the flammability class "NG". It is applied on any surfaces requiring especially reliable fire protection.
— "Akterm - Fire protection"- refractory properties of this composition comply with the requirements of GOST R 53295-2009. Therefore, this mixture-paint is used to provide special protective qualities of the surface from open flames - where this is necessary.
— "Akterm - water repellent"- it is used to protect wall structures from moisture, as it has special water-repellent properties. This coating is used both indoors and for application to the outer surface of walls.
— "Akterm - Zinc"- anti-corrosion composition, which provides reliable protection to metal surfaces from the development of corrosion, has increased adhesive qualities.
— "Akterm - Plast"- primer-enamel, used for any surfaces, both for metal and non-metal. It is used only for external walls, and combines three functions - a primer that prepares the surface, protection against corrosion and a top coat. Therefore, this composition can be applied even to uncleaned rusty surfaces.
"Corundum"
"Korund" is another brand of heat-insulating liquid materials manufactured by another Russian manufacturer, which gives a guarantee for the operation of such coatings for a period of 15 years.
Liquid thermal insulation compositions brand "Korund"
The heat insulator is a fairly dense homogeneous mass, with a high degree of adhesion to any building materials, such as concrete, metal, brick, plastic, glass and others.
Preparation of the composition "Korund" for application
The application of this material is carried out with a brush, spatula or spray gun. If the solution will be sprayed on the surface of the walls, then it should be diluted with plain water. The liquid is poured into the mass in small portions, and then the solution is mixed with a construction mixer.
"Korund" is also subdivided into solutions intended for a specific area of construction and various conditions of use. So, mixtures "Facade", "Classic", "Winter", "Fire protection", "Lotus" and "Anticor" are produced.
- "Korund-Facade", as its name implies, is used for insulation work on the outer surface of walls derived from various materials. The solution can be applied to prepared walls with a layer of 1 mm, at surface temperatures from + 5 to +145 degrees. This heat insulator may well be used as the basis for further finishing.
Thermal insulating paint "Korund" on the facade of a multi-storey panel house
- "Korund-Classic" applied with a layer thickness of 0.5 mm, and can be applied at surface temperatures from -60 to 250 degrees. The solution is able to eliminate the freezing of walls, the appearance of fungal formations, and prevent the occurrence of condensate. The material gives high protection to surfaces from heat loss, while maintaining normal air and moisture exchange, that is, the walls remain "breathing".
The composition can also be used for warming wooden walls - it has sufficient vapor permeability
- "Korund-Winter"- this composition is intended for work carried out at air temperatures from -10 to -60 degrees. The solution is used for external surfaces of various buildings erected in regions with a harsh climate.
- "Korund-Anticor"- this heat insulator is supplemented with anti-corrosion properties, and it is permissible to apply it, including on surfaces covered with a rusty coating. It is perfect for insulating walls and garage doors or other metal buildings. The convenience of using this solution is that it can be applied to an unprepared and uncleaned surface.
- "Korund-Fire protection"- such a heat-insulating material consists of three layers - primer, fire retardant and finishing protective and decorative. The solution has high adhesion to surfaces, and when dried, it acquires high strength and the ability to withstand the destructive effects of an open flame.
- "Korund-Lotus"- the composition is used as a covering layer for insulation brand "Korund-Facade". It has water and dirt-repellent properties, which allows you to keep the facade clean and original for a long time. This material is often chosen for processing the walls of multi-storey buildings.
Some heat-insulating materials in the "Korund" line have additional properties:
- "Korund-Waterproofing" proved to be excellent at protecting interpanel seams from moisture penetration.
- "Korund-Sanitary" used for the treatment of internal surfaces of walls and floors in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, on balconies and loggias as a reverse waterproofing.
- "Korund-Foundation" designed for complex waterproofing and insulation of horizontal and vertical surfaces of foundations
"Armor"
The insulating composition "Bronya" is a proprietary development of the Vologda LLC "Innovative Resource Center". It is also made using ceramic material, but the manufacturer presents it as superior in its thermal properties to all analogues already described above.
Another liquid insulation of domestic production - "Bronya"
"Armor" in its consistency resembles thick paint, has high adhesion, heat-insulating and anti-corrosion qualities. This material is also divided into several types, designed to isolate specific areas of the building, or they can be universal. The scope of their application can be recognized by their names. With the help of the liquid heat insulator "Bronya" it is possible to give special insulating qualities to the following surfaces:
- Roofs made of any material.
— Facade walls of residential, public and industrial buildings
- Internal load-bearing walls and partitions.
— External and internal slopes of windows and doors.
Floors indoors, as well as on verandas or terraces.
- Pipelines of cold and hot water supply, gas mains and heating mains located in heated and unheated premises, as well as on the street or underground.
— Ventilation and cooling systems.
- Metal constructions.
Heat-insulating liquid material "Bronya" can be divided into the following varieties - these are "Classic", "Universal", "Standard", "Facade", "Wall", "Light", "Antikor", "Metal", "Fire protection", " Winter", "Nord" and "Volcano". Moreover, each of them is produced in two versions, belonging to the combustibility group G1 or to NG, that is, to the category of non-combustible materials.
In addition to these basic thermal insulation materials, a range of primers are produced for preparing various surfaces and for various operating conditions.
Another series of Bronya compositions is water-repellent and waterproofing coatings made on a polymer basis.
The heat-insulating material is applied to the walls, as a rule, with a thickness of 1 mm, and can be used in a wide range of operating temperatures - from -60 to +200 degrees.
Positive and negative qualities of liquid ceramic insulation compounds
Liquid ceramic insulation has a number of advantages over other insulation materials:
- A layer of high-quality liquid thermal insulation of 1 mm is equal in its thermal characteristics to a 50÷70 mm layer of mineral wool.
- The thermal insulation coating turns out to be almost seamless, which in principle cannot be achieved with other types of insulation materials.
- Insulation compounds intended for internal work are environmentally friendly and absolutely safe for human or animal health.
- When insulating country houses, which are left unattended in winter, this insulation, in principle, cannot be dismantled and stolen by intruders.
- Unlike some board materials, liquid heaters are not a source of dust distribution, which is especially valuable for people prone to allergies.
- The simplicity of the application technology, similar to conventional staining, does not require the use of additional equipment or the invitation of specialists.
- Ultra-thin application, especially on the inside of the walls, can significantly save usable space.
- Liquid thermal insulation reliably resists fungal and mold formations, as well as the creation of nests by insects.
- The long service life of this type without repair and other unforeseen troubles, for example, severe pollution, swelling from excess moisture, rodent attacks, makes this type of thermal insulation an excellent choice for warming a private house.
There are practically no disadvantages of such materials. The only thing that can upset the buyer is the poor quality of the acquired composition of an unknown manufacturer, so the choice must be taken very seriously.
The choice of liquid ceramic thermal insulation
To choose a quality material designed for a specific area of construction where it will be used, you should carefully study the characteristics of the composition, which are necessarily located on the packaging or in the accompanying documentation.
Despite the fact that the liquid heat insulator has a rather high price, you should not experiment and immediately purchase the one that is cheaper, in the hope that it will also be able to perform the necessary functions, even if they are not indicated in the instructions.
When purchasing a heater, you need to pay attention to the following points:
- The density of the mixture. The material is considered to be of high quality if 1 liter is equal to no more than 0.6 kg - for example, a ten-liter bucket should not have a net weight of more than 6÷6.5 kg. If the mass exceeds the specified norm or is much less than it, then this will be a reason to doubt the heat-insulating properties of the acquired composition.
- When buying such a heat insulator, you need to look at the bucket in the light and see the stratification of its contents, as the lighter ceramic fraction rises up. The thicker the top layer, the higher the thermal insulation effect.
- The structural structure of the mixture is also important - ceramic microgranules should be felt in the form of roughness in it. To determine their presence, a small amount of mass is taken on the fingertips and rubbed. If there are no roughnesses, then you should choose a heat insulator of a different brand, or purchase it from a more conscientious seller.
- You need to pay attention to the color of the mixture, as it should be absolutely white. If there is a grayish or yellow tint, then this indicates the violations of the manufacturing process, and it is not known how this material will behave both during its application and during operation. However, of course, one must also take into account the fact that a color pigment has already been introduced into some formulations, which should be stated in the characteristics of the material printed on its packaging. In this case, the color must correspond to the declared characteristics.
Tips for applying liquid ceramic insulation to the surface
Liquid insulation is quite easy to apply to any surface, so the work can be done independently, following some recommendations:
- In order for the wall to be even after covering it with a heat insulator, it is recommended to treat its surface with a grinder, with a brush installed on it, which will clean the protrusions left after the mortar used for masonry has dried.
- When applying compositions on surfaces made of ferrous metal, they should be dedusted and degreased. If the heat insulator is applied to non-ferrous metal, then it is necessary to remove the gloss from it and apply a primer to it.
- The mass of liquid insulation is mixed immediately before applying it to the wall. This process is carried out using a mixer attachment mounted on an electric drill. The mixing time is 6 to 10 minutes.
- Some formulations that have a thicker consistency are diluted with water. The mass is diluted to the desired consistency, depending on the method and area of application of the material. Dilution proportions are usually indicated on the packaging.
- Liquid insulation is applied in layers, and the layers should not be more than 1 mm - this parameter depends on the brand of the composition. Each of the layers must be completely dried, and this process takes at least 24 hours.
Video: the use of liquid thermal insulation brand " Magniterm Facade»
Liquid ceramic thermal insulation is a relatively new technology that has not gained wide popularity yet, perhaps simply due to a lack of information for homeowners. Nevertheless, it has excellent thermal performance and can be successfully used in various areas of private construction. With the right choice of insulation and compliance with the technology of its application, you can get the expected result of a significant reduction in heat loss of the building, which will save you from numerous troubles for many years.
Liquid Styrofoam
Liquid polystyrene foam has many names - they are given to it by the manufacturers themselves: it can be, for example, “unipol” or “mettemplast”, but its most familiar and popular name is “penoizol”.
Insulation of the walls of the attic "penoizol"
The composition of these materials, in general, is identical and is a modified polystyrene foam.
Unlike conventional expanded polystyrene (polystyrene), "penoizol" has a number of improved characteristics that are especially important for use in residential buildings - this is its low flammability and low content of harmful components. Using "penoizol" and applying the recommended technology for its application, you can significantly speed up and reduce the cost of building a house.
Components, manufacture and application of "penoizol"
- For the manufacture of this liquid insulation material, urea-formaldehyde resin is used, designed for cold hardening foams, a foaming agent, phosphoric acid and water. Depending on what density of insulation is needed, the consumption of resin added to the composition varies.
- The constituent components are mixed in a mixer of a special gas-liquid apparatus (GZhU) using compressed air, which helps to turn all the ingredients into a composition that, when applied to surfaces, turns into a lush and dense foam.
Penoizol spraying requires special equipment
Sprayed "penoizol", blown out from a special spray gun under air pressure, densely fills all the cracks and cracks on the wall surface, forming a sealed seamless coating. The foam sprayed onto the walls is white with a slightly yellow tint. It lays on the surface in a thin layer, and then begins to expand, filling all the space available to it. Typically, spraying is carried out between the timber frame studs. or between the rafters, if the roof is insulated.
- The sprayed and expanded mass of foam seizes after 10÷15 minutes, and hardens after 3÷4.5 hours. The coating gains its final strength in two to three days, after the layers have completely dried, and at the same time, "penoizol" acquires all its thermal insulation qualities.
- Installation of this insulation is carried out in one day, which is three to four times faster than laying thermal insulation material in mats or slabs. In addition, "penoizol" does not require additional auxiliary materials, such as a vapor barrier and windproof membrane, since it itself performs their functions.
Characteristics of the insulation "penoizol"
Table of technical characteristics of the penoizol liquid insulation:
| Name of parameters | Maximum and minimum values |
|---|---|
| Thermal conductivity coefficient, W/m×°С | 0.028 ÷ 0.047 |
| Density, kg/m³ | 5 ÷ 75 |
| Compressive strength (at 10% linear deformation), kg/cm² | 0.07 ÷ 0.5 |
| Bending strength, kg/cm² | 0.10 ÷ 0.25 |
| Tensile strength, kg/cm² | 0.05 ÷ 0.08 |
| Water absorption in 24 hours (by mass),% | 10.5 ÷ 20.0 |
| Humidity (by mass), % | 5.0 ÷ 20.0 |
| Operating temperature range, ˚С | from - 50 to +120 |
| Lifetime | up to 50 years |
The numbers speak volumes on their own, but some of them are worth looking at in more detail:
- Thermal conductivity. This parameter is very low, therefore, 80-100 mm of this heat insulator is enough to insulate the walls in order to significantly reduce the heat loss of the house. Such a quality of the material will help to make the heating system of the house much more economical, which compensates for the cost of warming the house in one or two winters.
The thickness of the heat insulator layer is selected depending on the winter temperatures of the region where the insulation will be carried out, and on the design features of the wall.
- Flammability. Penoizol belongs to fairly safe groups: flammability - G-1, flammability - B-2, smoke formation - D-1, toxicity of combustion products - T-1.
- Chemical and biological stability of the heat insulator. Fungus and mold do not form on "penoizol", as it is a breathable material that does not retain moisture on its surface and inside the layers. Rodents do not touch it, and insects do not start inside the insulation. The material does not react in any way to an aggressive environment and most organic solvents.
- Adhesion. In the liquid state, "penoizol" is adhesive enough to almost "grow" with the surface on which it is sprayed, as it penetrates into all the recesses and irregularities of any material.
- The durability of the insulation is guaranteed by the manufacturer - terms are declared from 35 to 50 years. Such a duration of operation was substantiated experimentally in laboratory conditions, with the help of artificial creation of various multiple adverse effects on the material.
Disadvantages of "penoizol"
This liquid insulation also has its own negative qualities, or rather, one thing, but it is it that stops many buyers - these are the toxic substances that make up "penoizol".
It cannot be said that "penoizol" is an absolutely environmentally friendly material, since it contains formaldehydes. It is they who, during application and polymerization, emit a certain amount of gases that have an unpleasant odor. And, of course, these substances can not be called useful. However, it would be appropriate to recall here that all non-water-based paints and varnishes emit not very pleasant odors, and after drying and weathering, there is not a trace left of it. So it is with "penoizol" - after the completion of the process of its hardening, the unpleasant "aroma" will also disappear.
Prices for the popular liquid thermal insulation TeploPlus
Liquid thermal insulation TeploPlus
Moreover, according to the manufacturers, the emitted harmful substances have an extremely low concentration. This is also confirmed by the hygienic certificate for such material. Nevertheless, the choice of a heat insulator remains with the owner of the insulated house, especially since there is also a natural liquid insulation on the building materials market - this is ecowool, which will be discussed below.
Ecowool
Ecowool is a natural thermal insulation material used to insulate various surfaces of the house, including walls. It should be noted right away that this heat insulator cannot be unequivocally called liquid, but it can be the main component for a mixture applied in a liquid state.
Materials for the manufacture of ecowool
Ecowool is made from fluffed cellulose fibers treated with antiseptics and flame retardants, that is, to be more clear, these are wood and minerals. And unlike other insulating materials, ecowool has not a porous, but a capillary structure.
To be more precise, several types of raw materials are used for the production of this insulation:
- A typographic marriage left over from the printing of magazines and books.
- Waste in the manufacture of packaging corrugated and ordinary cardboard.
- Secondary raw materials, that is, waste paper - old books, newspapers, magazines and the like. This type of raw material is considered second-rate, as it has significant pollution and consists of various materials, so the fibers are heterogeneous.
- Pulp industry waste.
So, ecowool consists of 80% crushed cellulose fiber, 12% of the total volume is occupied by boric acid, which acts as an antiseptic. This substance resists the occurrence of fungus and mold in high humidity. Sodium tetraborate, a flame retardant, is 8% ecowool - it is designed to increase fire resistance and add a mass of insecticidal qualities that will resist the appearance of nests of various insects.
Ecowool fibers become sticky after wetting them, due to the lignin contained in them - this is a natural substance contained in plant cells.
This composition is increasingly used for warming not only residential buildings, but also industrial premises.
Ways of laying insulation based on ecowool
Warming with this material is carried out in different ways:
- In a dry way, when ecowool is laid in bulk. This technology is only suitable for horizontal surfaces.
- Laying or installing ecowool pressed in the form of plates - this method can also be called dry, but it is applicable to both horizontal and vertical surfaces.
- wet way. In this case, dry crushed cellulose fibers are mixed with water, and then, using a special installation, the resulting mixture is sprayed onto the surface. So floors and walls, as well as roofing from the inside, can be insulated.
The mechanism of adhesion of materials in this method is based on the fact that when wet in cellulose, natural glue, lignin, is activated, and when the composition is blown under air pressure from the pipe, the mixture easily adheres to the surface of the walls, clogging all gaps and joints. When dry, the composition forms a dense, seamless cover on the wall.
Ecowool spraying using "wet" technology
- The wet-glue method differs from the previous one in that cellulose is mixed not only with water, but also with glue. The adhesive component is added to increase the adhesive qualities of the composition, so the adhesion of the eco-insulator to the surface increases several times. The adhesive composition is most often used for insulation work, as it is more reliable than cellulose mixed only with water. As an adhesive additive, PVA glue and similar compositions are used. They are diluted in certain proportions with water, and then added to the cellulose mixture.
Equipment for applying ecowool
For spraying work, a factory-made apparatus or a home-made version of it can be used.
- All devices for laying their liquid ecowool insulation work on the same principle and have approximately the same equipment:
- The plant must have a receiving bunker for laying shredded pulp. In home-made models, its role is successfully performed by a plastic barrel, which is not difficult to find in hardware stores.
- Agitator. In a home-made installation, an electric drill with a mixer nozzle is used as it. This element is needed in order to fluff the pulp from the compressed state in which it is in the package.
- The pump, which is necessary for the efficient and fast run of the liquefied ecowool through the hoses. In home-made versions, different models of vacuum cleaners with a blowing function are often used for installation.
- Corrugated flexible pipes having a diameter of 50 ÷ 80 mm are used as inlet and outlet hoses when spraying material on the surface.
- There are specialized kits for applying wet pulp, consisting of a pump, hoses and nozzles.
Performance characteristics of ecowool
- Thermal conductivity. Ecowool, with its high-quality application to the walls, perfectly retains heat inside the building. The thermal conductivity coefficient is only 0.032 ÷ 0.041 W / m × ˚С, and it can be called one of the lowest among the most commonly used insulating materials.
Due to the fact that the material sprayed on the surface forms a continuous layer without seams, the occurrence of cold bridges is excluded. Ecowool is lightweight, usually applied to the walls in a not very thick layer, no more than 100 mm, but it creates excellent insulation for the house. This is due to the naturalness of the insulation, which consists mainly of wood fibers with a capillary structural structure that can hold large volumes of immobilized air inside.
- Soundproofing. Ecowool is an excellent sound absorber. So, its layer of only 100 mm is able to reduce noise by 60 decibels. This is also due to the fact that the wall covering turns out to be continuous, without seams, since noise waves easily penetrate through the same “bridges” that appear at the joints of plate heaters.
- Environmental friendliness of the heater. The composition of ecowool was described above, and from this it is clear that the insulation is made from natural materials that do not emit substances harmful to humans.
- Fire resistance. The liquid composition of ecowool includes flame retardants, which increase the fire resistance of the material. But since it consists mainly of cellulose, it is still impossible to achieve complete fire safety, and it has been assigned a flammability group G2 (GOST 30244).
However, we must pay tribute to the composition of ecowool - it has the property of self-extinguishing, and also does not emit toxic substances when smoldering.
Flame retardants contribute to the fact that during the combustion of the insulation a minimum amount of toxic substances is released. Basically, this is carbon, which does not pose a strong danger to human health.
In the event of a fire, during the thermal decomposition of the insulation, water is abundantly released from its structure, which slows down the spread of fire, turning it into smoldering, and then into attenuation.
- Adhesion. Cellulose, mixed with water and glue, has a high adhesion to almost any building material.
- Density. Fluff pulp moistened with glue and water, when applied to the surface and dried, creates a layer with sufficient density to create an air gap between the fibers, which is part of the thermal insulation. The density of ecowool largely depends on the method of its application. So, when laying a wet composition on vertical surfaces, the density is approximately 55 ÷ 65 kg / m³.
- Moisture resistance. Ecowool cannot be called a moisture-resistant material - it is able to absorb up to 30% of moisture from the total mass. But since this insulation is "breathable", the moisture it absorbs does not linger inside the layers. When dried, ecowool does not lose its original insulating qualities.
Disadvantages of ecowool
This natural insulation also has its drawbacks, which it would also be nice to know about:
- Ecowool shrinks over time, giving a decrease of about 10% of the original volume. Therefore, when laying it, it is recommended to apply a layer of a slightly thicker layer on the wall than planned.
- The ecowool layer should not be covered with vapor-proof materials, as it must be able to be ventilated, otherwise it will quickly lose its thermal insulation qualities due to increased internal humidity.
- In order for such a heater to function for a long time and with the desired efficiency, it is necessary to carry out high-quality installation, in compliance with all technological standards, which can only be done by a qualified craftsman - and this will lead to additional costs.
Video: An example of insulation of facade walls with ecowool
The choice of insulation is up to the homeowner. But in any case, acquiring the material you like, you need to carefully study its technical and operational characteristics and instructions for applying to a particular surface. study the link.
You may be interested in information about the technical characteristics of the insulation
Evgeny AfanasievChief Editor
Publication author 10.02.2016
The choice of thermal insulation material is a responsible process. Today, many manufacturers began to produce a heater that is capable of performing several functions at once. It not only makes the surface warm, but also creates reliable protection against wind, moisture, steam and corrosion.
Kinds
If you decide to insulate the walls, then going to a hardware store, you can see that the range is quite wide outside. Each of the available heaters differs not only in its thermal insulation qualities. Consider the main ones.
Liquid materials
A few years ago, builders actively used solid heat-insulating materials for wall insulation. But not so long ago, new ones with a liquid consistency began to appear on the construction market. These products are similar in appearance and consistency to paint, which is why they are often referred to as insulation paint.
Pictured are liquid heat-insulating materials for walls
In terms of composition, liquid thermal insulation is presented in the form of small capsules made of ceramics and glass. They are filled with air or an inert gas. The role of the binder is performed by acrylic polymers. The finished product is a thick dough.
Rigid materials
Rigid heaters can be used to insulate walls, the installation of which is much easier. They are geometrically correct plates, thanks to which you can get a perfectly flat surface. It is then simply plastered or lined with various materials. For the most part, they fit like.
In the photo, rigid heat-insulating materials for walls:
Solid insulation does not shrink and does not crumple. Installation of solid insulation does not require crates, frames and other structures. The materials are highly durable, and their service life is more than 50 years.
Warm plaster
Among the advantages of this material, high strength indicators can be noted. This suggests that the surface is very difficult to damage, which cannot be said about previous materials. Warm plaster refers to a liquid heat insulator. This is nothing more than a cement-sand mortar with the addition of natural and polymeric fillers.
On the photo-warm plaster
Thanks to them, it is possible to reduce the thermal conductivity of the original composition. The thermal conductivity of walls with a heat insulator will directly depend on the fillers used. When laying out a thin layer 1-1.5 cm thick, 50 ml foam can be replaced. But what it looks like and how warm plaster is used for the facade can be understood by looking at the photo and information
Gas-filled plastics
This material for thermal insulation of walls is considered one of the most effective. To obtain it, the method of foaming different materials is used. The result of this process is a sheet foam heat insulator.
Pictured are gas-filled plastics
Its installation is simple and convenient. Expanded polystyrene can be safely attributed to the leaders among all produced foams. You can use a heat insulator to insulate walls from the outside. But what and where exactly it is used is described in this article.
liquid foam
This is another option for liquid insulation. Its name is penoizol. Its filling is carried out with the help of hoses between the walls, in the cracks, formwork at the time of construction. This option of insulation refers to the budget, since its cost is 2 times cheaper compared to other analogues.
Pictured is liquid foam for walls
Liquid foam is able to resist microbes, is breathable, does not burn well, and has a long service life. But what kind of liquid thermal insulation for walls from the inside exists in addition to the above, is described in this
Extruded polystyrene foam
For the manufacture of this material, polystyrene granules are used. They are melted at high temperatures. The material is then extruded from the extruder and foamed. This gives such .
Pictured is extruded polystyrene foam for walls
Thus, it is possible to obtain a strong, durable and breathable insulation. It is in excellent contact with various wall coverings.
glass wool
This material is a kind of mineral fiber. For its manufacture, glass cullet is used. The release of glass wool occurs with different density and thickness. If you need thin fiberglass, then you need to choose a material with a thickness of 5 cm. This is enough to replace a meter brick wall.
In the photo - glass wool for the wall
Fiberglass is highly fire resistant and resilient. It is characterized by excellent indicators of heat and sound insulation. But when installing fiberglass, you need to take care of your safety by wearing a respirator.
Selection criteria
When choosing a heat-insulating material for the insulation of external and internal walls, it is necessary to take into account a number of requirements:
- Thermal insulation indicators. The higher this figure, the better the material will retain heat.
- The weight. The lighter the heat insulator, the less difficulties arise during its installation.
- Vapor permeability. If this indicator is high, then excess fluid will freely leave.
- combustibility. At the same time, indicators can determine how flammable the material is and whether it poses a threat to the house and its residents.
- Ecological cleanliness. By purchasing a modern insulation, you can be sure that it consists exclusively of natural raw materials.
- Lifetime. It is necessary to select a heater that has a long service life so as not to spend extra effort and money on re-work.
- Price. And although the price of a heat insulator is indicated as the last criterion, for many it is the most important. Of course, you must understand that the more expensive the material, the higher its technical characteristics.
When working with walls, it is useful to know how it differs.
Thermal insulation of walls is a responsible job that requires the choice of high-quality insulation. Today, there are enough options on the construction market, each of which has its own technical characteristics and is suitable for insulating walls outside or inside the house.
To protect housing from heat loss and high humidity, it is covered with various types of insulation. It is very difficult to choose the best of them, because each product has its own unique properties and scope. Thermal insulation materials that are used in modern construction, on the one hand, are environmentally friendly, on the other hand, they are easy to install. Having studied the main types of insulation, you can choose the best thermal insulation material that meets your needs.
Modern thermal insulation materials for use in construction and repair are divided into many varieties: industrial and household, natural and artificial, flexible and rigid thermal insulation materials, etc.
For example, according to the form, modern thermal insulation is divided into such samples as:
- rolls;
- sheet;
- unit;
- loose.
The structure distinguishes the following types of thermal insulation with its unique feature:
- fibrous;
- cellular;
- grainy.
According to the type of raw materials, such products of various quality classes are distinguished:
- Organic, natural or natural heaters are cork bark, cellulose wadding, polystyrene foam, wood fiber, foam plastic, paper pellets, peat. These types of building insulation materials are used exclusively indoors to minimize high humidity. However, natural building thermal insulators are not fireproof.
- Inorganic thermal insulation materials - rocks, fiberglass, foam glass, mineral wool insulation, foamed rubber, cellular concrete, stone wool, basalt fiber. A good heat insulator from this category is characterized by a high degree of vapor permeability and fire resistance. Particularly effective is insulation with a product with water-repellent additives.
- Mixed - perlite, asbestos, vermiculite and other heaters from foamed rocks. Differ in the best quality and, of course, increased cost. These are the most expensive brands of the best thermal insulation materials. Therefore, such a heater covers the premises much less often than more economical materials.
If you need to make thermal insulation of the pipeline in the wall, then special "sleeves" of increased density are used for this.
Determining the best product depends on more than just price. They are chosen for their quality characteristics, ergonomic properties and environmental friendliness.
Top 10 Thermal Insulation Materials
Consider the main properties of the best heat insulators that are used in modern construction and repair:
- Mineral wool. This name refers to all flexible fibrous heat-insulating materials that are made from mineral raw materials. Mineral wool heaters are classified as highly porous materials, due to which they do an excellent job with their functions, and therefore are very popular.
In addition, mineral wool has many other advantages:
- affordable price due to ease of production and low cost of raw materials;
- ease and convenience of installation;
- high degree of fire resistance;
- well passes air;
- does not pass water and moisture;
- frost resistance;
- soundproofing;
- long service life.
The disadvantages of this product include the need to install a waterproofing film during installation, as well as a small margin of safety.
- Glass wool and basalt slabs. Like ordinary glass, this product is made from quartz sand, lime and soda. Glass wool is produced both as flexible rolled heat-insulating materials, and in the form of a cylinder or plate. The positive properties are the same as those of mineral wool, but the noise transmission and safety margin are much greater, but the thermal stability is lower.
Basalt slab is a subspecies of glass wool, which has such positive qualities as:
- resistance to deforming influences;
- durability;
- high degree of strength;
- low moisture absorption;
- resistance to high temperatures.
Basalt slabs are used, as a rule, outside to protect facades, foundations, roofs.
- Foam glass. This insulation is made by gasification of glass powder at high temperature. The result is a material with a porosity of up to 95%.
The main advantages of foam glass:
- water and frost resistance;
- ease of processing during installation;
- high strength;
- fire resistance;
- long service life;
- biological stability;
- chemical neutrality.
Of course, there are also disadvantages - high price and airtightness, so this material is used mainly for thermal insulation of industrial buildings.
- Cellulose wool has a fine-grained structure and consists of several components: wood fiber - 80%, flame retardant - 12%, sodium tetraborate - 7%. This product can be installed dry or wet. In the first case, I simply fall asleep and tamp down cellulose wool, but in the second case, it is blown out of a special gun.
Ecowool has the following advantages:
- low price;
- production safety;
- moisture exchange without loss of heat-insulating properties.
However, such material burns well, is easily damaged by compression, and it is very difficult to lay it.
- Styrofoam and expanded polystyrene. These materials include two types of products - thermoplastic and thermonon-plastic heaters. The former soften when reheated (polystyrene foam, polyvinyl chloride foam), and the latter harden initially and do not soften when reheated (polyurethane foam, silicon, epoxy, organic, phenol-formaldehyde resins).
Extruded polystyrene is the most popular of the foams, as it has a lot of advantages:
- low degree of moisture absorption;
- high degree of thermal insulation;
- frost resistance;
- a large margin of safety;
- ease of installation;
- low cost.
The disadvantages include flammability, non-permeability of air and fragility when freezing (if frost hit the wet foam).
- Polyurethane foam. This product consists of air-filled microcapsules formed by the interaction of a polyol and an isocyanate.
Among the advantages of polyurethane foam are:
- ideal for thermal insulation of uneven surfaces;
- installation speed;
- elasticity and flexibility;
- lack of joints and seams;
- protects from temperatures in the range from -250 °С to +180 °С;
- biological resistance.
The disadvantages include the release of harmful substances in the event of combustion, the lack of air flow and the need to use special equipment for blowing during installation.
- Cork. This material is classified as an environmentally friendly product, so it is very popular in the West and in European countries, both for insulation and for surface finishing. For insulation, cork slabs with a thickness of up to 5 cm are used.
Cork has such positive qualities as:
- does not shrink over time;
- does not rot;
- light in weight;
- quick and easy to cut when laying;
- high strength;
- environmental friendliness;
- durability;
- does not react with chemicals;
- does not burn even when exposed to direct fire;
- does not emit harmful substances when exposed to high temperatures.
However, the maximum use temperature is only 120 °C.
- Liquid insulation TSM Keramik. This insulation is one of the most modern heat-saving materials. This solution contains special impurities with hollow ceramic balls that adhere to each other with the help of special substances.
TSM Ceramic has such unique properties as:
- high degree of extensibility;
- the thickness of the insulator is only 2-3 mm;
- easy to apply to any surface;
- low thermal conductivity;
- resistance to low and high temperatures, including open flame;
- economical use - 1 liter of TSM Ceramic is enough to insulate two square meters of surface.
At the same time, special equipment is required for spraying, such as a paint sprayer or a tray and roller.
- Reflective heat-insulating materials. A special group of thermal insulation materials that act on the principle of reflectors: reflectors first absorb heat, and then return it back into space. The external surface of polished aluminum, which is applied to the foamed polyethylene, reflects up to 97% of heat.
Such heaters, very thin in appearance, amaze with their properties:
- 2 cm of reflective material acts as a fibrous heat insulator 15-20 cm thick;
- high sound and vapor barrier protection.
The most popular brands in this category are Poriplex, Ecofol, Armofol and Penofol.
- Slag. Vitreous heat saver made of blast-furnace slag, which remains after iron smelting. Since slag is a production waste, the cost of the material is very low. Slag wool perfectly retains heat in the building, but this insulation also has disadvantages.
First of all, it is the fear of water and moisture, which reacts with metal inserts inside walls or floors. In addition, slag wool is terribly prickly during installation, so mandatory protection is needed during installation work.
However, despite many shortcomings, the low price of this insulation makes it one of the most popular modern materials for thermal insulation.
What parameters to pay attention to when choosing?
The choice of high-quality thermal insulation depends on many parameters. Installation methods, cost, and other important characteristics are taken into account, which are worth dwelling on in more detail.
When choosing the best heat-saving material, it is necessary to carefully study its main characteristics:
- Thermal conductivity. This coefficient is equal to the amount of heat that passes through 1 m2 of an insulator with an area of 1 m2 in 1 hour, measured by W. The thermal conductivity index directly depends on the degree of surface humidity, since water transmits heat better than air, that is, raw material will not cope with its tasks.
- Porosity. This is the proportion of pores in the total volume of the heat insulator. Pores can be open or closed, large or small. When choosing, the uniformity of their distribution and appearance is important.
- Water absorption. This parameter shows the amount of water that the heat insulator can absorb and hold in the pores in direct contact with a humid environment. To improve this characteristic, the material is subjected to hydrophobization.
- Density of thermal insulation materials. This indicator is measured in kg/m3. Density shows the ratio of the mass and volume of the product.
- Humidity. Shows the amount of moisture in the insulation. Sorption humidity indicates the equilibrium of hygroscopic humidity under conditions of different temperature indicators and relative air humidity.
- Vapor permeability. This property shows the amount of water vapor passing through 1 m2 of insulation in one hour. The unit of steam is mg, and the air temperature inside and outside is taken as the same.
- Resistant to biodegradation. A heat insulator with a high degree of biostability can withstand the effects of insects, microorganisms, fungi and in conditions of high humidity.
- Strength. This parameter indicates how the product will be affected by transportation, storage, installation and operation. A good indicator is in the range from 0.2 to 2.5 MPa.
- Fire resistance. It takes into account all the parameters of fire safety: the flammability of the material, its combustibility, smoke-generating ability, as well as the degree of toxicity of combustion products. So, the longer the insulation resists the flame, the higher its fire resistance parameter.
- Thermal stability. The ability of a material to resist heat. The indicator shows the temperature level, after reaching which the characteristics of the material will change, the structure will change, and its strength will also decrease.
- Specific heat. It is measured in kJ / (kg x ° C) and thus demonstrates the amount of heat that is accumulated by the thermal insulation layer.
- Frost resistance. This parameter shows the ability of the material to endure temperature changes, freeze and thaw without losing its basic characteristics.
When choosing thermal insulation, you need to remember a whole range of factors. It is necessary to take into account the main parameters of the object to be insulated, the conditions of use, and so on. Universal materials do not exist, since among the panels, loose mixtures and liquids on the market, it is necessary to choose the type of thermal insulation that is most suitable for a particular case.
