Just as there are many commercial and industrial sectors, there are many different kinds of insulation materials. This week we are going to take a look at some of the practical applications of mineral fiber. Versatile and even life-saving, mineral fiber insulation is worth considering in a variety of different spaces.
Thermal Performance
Managing thermal transfer is key to running a high efficiency facility. The individual mineral fibers are actually heat conductive, but pressed together into rolls and sheets, they become an incredibly effective insulator. This is because they work to partition the air and counteract heat’s natural tendency to flow from warmer temperatures to cooler ones. Materials can vary from glass to stone and even ceramic fibers, but the manufacturing process still creates a product with high thermal performance.
Acoustic Protection
Noise isn’t just annoying, it can negatively impact the health of those experiencing it on a constant basis. Continuous noises, loud or otherwise, have been shown to significantly decrease productivity. Mineral wool provides a barrier that reduces sound through partition cavities, wall linings, acoustic ceiling tiles, and more! The vibrations cannot pass as easily through the cotton candy-like structure of the insulation. Office buildings and industrial facilities alike can benefit from the sound dampening effects of mineral fiber insulation.
Fire Prevention
Along with saving money and maintaining a healthy work environment, mineral wool also offers superior fire resistant properties. In an emergency, every minute counts. Properly installed insulation can delay the spread of fire long enough to get your people to safety. Mineral fiber sheets are non-combustible and can stand temperatures greater than 1,000°C. This makes it an ideal choice in high-risk applications like offshore rigs and petrochemical refineries. In these cases, ask about high temperature mineral fibers.
In addition to these applications, mineral fiber can also be used in hydroponics or as a filtering medium. Contact the experts at Westcal Insulations to see if mineral fiber may be an option for your facility!
