by Thermal Insulation
Thermal insulation refers to materials used and methods employed to reduce heat transfer (thermal transmittance) between objects in thermal contact or in thermal radiation exchange. The goal is usually to reduce undesired effects of temperature, with the most common applications being for building insulation, refrigeration/cooling equipment, and exhaust/industrial system thermal management. Insulation provides energy efficiency by reducing heating and cooling demands.
Common Building Thermal Insulation Materials
Glass Wool
Glass wool Thermal Insulation Materials is made from sand, recycled glass and a bonding agent. It comes in the form of flexible rolls, rigid boards and loose-fill blankets. Glass wool traps tiny air pockets between the glass fibers, slowing heat transfer by conduction and convection. It is moisture and mildew resistant, making it suitable for wall and attic insulation. R-values range from R-2.5 to R-3.8 per inch depending on density.
Rock Wool
Rock wool is manufactured from basalt, slag and other rock materials melted in high temperature furnaces. It is available as rigid boards, blankets and batts. Like glass wool, rock wool’s fiberous structure slows heat transfer. It also offers sound absorption properties. With R-values from R-2.5 to R-4.3 per inch, rock wool is commonly used for commercial building roofs, walls and attics. It provides effective thermal and acoustic insulation.
Fiberglass
Made from molten glass, fiberglass insulation takes a flexible form of loosely packed shredded glass fibers or fiber bags. It is hydrophilic so manufacturers add water-repellent chemical binders or wax coatings. Commonly used in homes, fiberglass batts and rolls have R-values of R-2.2 to R-3.8 per inch depending on density. As a low-cost material, fiberglass accounts for over 70% of residential insulation market share.
Spray Foam Insulation
Two-part spray foam insulation involves spraying a reactive mixture of isocyanate and polyol chemicals that quickly expand and harden in-place, filling all gaps and cracks. Closed-cell spray foam has sealed bubbles that resist moisture and air leakage for an R-value over R-6 per inch. Open-cell spray foam is breathable with R-4-6 value. Excellent insulation, spray foams cost more but are used for attics, walls, foundations and other applications.
Insulating Concrete Forms (ICF)
ICF building involves erecting two parallel form walls made of insulating foam, fiberboard or other core material, then pouring concrete between them. The concrete bonds to both sides of the form to create a monolithic, structural insulated wall with the core providing continuous insulation value of typically R-15 to R-30. Used for both residential and commercial construction, ICF provides great thermal performance and soundproofing.
Cellulose InsulationMade from 80-90% recycled paper, cellulose insulation is a loose-fill material installed by pneumatic machines. It packs densely in walls and attics, eliminating air gaps. Cellulose absorbs up to 20% moisture by weight without compromising R-value performance. It provides fire resistance and control of air infiltration. With a rating of R-3.1 to R-3.7 per inch, cellulose insulation has become popular for retrofitting older homes.
Mineral Wool Insulation
Mineral wool is a general term for thermal insulation materials made from rock and slag, including stone wool and slag wool. It is available as rigid boards, batts and loose-fill. The fibrous structure slows heat transfer with R-values between R-2.5-4 per inch. Mineral wool performs well in fire protection and is mold and moisture resistant. It is used for commercial and industrial applications requiring higher fire safety.
Insulating Other Building Components
Insulating attics is critical to reduce heat transfer through the flat or sloped ceiling below. Loose-fill, batts or rigid boards are common attic insulation materials. Wall insulation reduces conductive and air infiltration heat losses/gains. Options include blown-in dense-pack cellulose or fiberglass, rigid foam boards, batts, spray foams and ICF. Foundation insulation includes rigid foam boards on/below grade or spray foams for basement walls and crawl spaces.Windows and doors also require perimeter insulation for optimal building envelope performance. Products like caulks, gaskets, weatherstripping and low-E glass help boost window insulation values. Pipe and duct insulation sheaths help maintain distribution system temperatures.
Industrial and Commercial Insulation Applications
In addition to buildings, Thermal Insulation Materials finds wide use in industrial systems to control heat and conserve energy. Common applications include furnace and boiler insulation wraps to retain exhaust heat for efficient operation. Insulation of pipes, valves and flanges helps maintain temperatures in steam, liquid and gas transmission lines. Duct insulation supports efficient HVAC system performance in commercial buildings. Marine ship insulation protects hulls and mechanical systems. Aircraft, spacecraft, engine and high temperature industrial equipment also employ insulation materials tailored for their extreme environments. Thermal breaks are further used in building structures to eliminate thermal bridging. In conclusion, insulation products play a vital everyday role in energy savings for both residential and non-residential infrastructure. Regular maintenance ensures optimal thermal protection over time.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
About Author - Alice Mutum
Alice Mutum is a seasoned senior content editor at Coherent Market Insights, leveraging extensive expertise gained from her previous role as a content writer. With seven years in content development, Alice masterfully employs SEO best practices and cutting-edge digital marketing strategies to craft high-ranking, impactful content. As an editor, she meticulously ensures flawless grammar and punctuation, precise data accuracy, and perfect alignment with audience needs in every research report. Alice's dedication to excellence and her strategic approach to content make her an invaluable asset in the world of market insights. LinkedIn
