What are insulating materials? Types and classification of insulating materials

In the modern world, when building and reconstructing buildings, the question arises of modernizing the concept of heat preservation and the integrity of communication systems. In connection with the constant increase in the cost of utilities, most consumers are forced to save. But not only this factor makes you think about the preservation of heat. Environmental indicators are also important. The main energy-saving funds are insulating materials. The technology of manufacturing such products allows us to warm and maintain temperature performance without harm to others. When carrying out insulation measures, it is possible to save more than 40% of energy and protect metal structures of pipelines from corrosion.

General characteristics

The following types of insulation materials are distinguished:

• Building insulators, which are used for insulation of walls, ceilings, roofs.
• Engineering insulators intended for thermal insulation of networks, pipelines.

There are basic characteristics of insulating materials that are present regardless of the species. They must be waterproof, otherwise moisture will destroy the protected material and disrupt its operation. When interacting with the environment, they retain their integrity, can withstand the effects of heat and cold, chemical compounds, mechanical damage.

An important characteristic is the ability of insulation to not affect the protected object. And the final indicator is profitability. The quality of the materials must match the price. Depending on the types and purpose of insulation, they have additional characteristics.

Classification

Based on their characteristics, insulating materials are classified into:

• Heat-insulating;
• Soundproof;
• Waterproofing;
• Wind-proof;
• Steam and waterproof.

Wall insulation materials

To insulate the house, it must be protected from cold and moisture. Insulating materials for the walls of a new generation will be able to do this without harming your health. The products used are very diverse - they can be fiberglass, mineral wool, lime-siliceous and foam. They have the appearance of blocks, plates or rolls.

Features of heaters

Insulating materials for walls have their own criteria and requirements. In addition to the main characteristics should be noted especially important - it's flammability.

There are 3 types of fire resistance:

• Non-flammable (A1);
• Hardly inflammable (B1);
• Highly flammable (B3).

So, when buying carefully read the inscription on the package. The manufacturer is obliged to indicate there full information about the product. Accordingly, if your room is not equipped with special fire-fighting facilities, you can use materials group A1. These include insulation from mineral fibers. If the building is equipped with at least minimal protection against fires and you are sure that the probability of heating materials above 100 degrees is excluded, you can apply materials of group B1. Insulators of this group are made of solid polystyrene foam. Use of materials of group B3 in construction is prohibited.

The material for wall insulation should have the main property - to keep the shape. This is necessary so that the overall design does not deteriorate. If the material begins to change shape, it can change its original position and cease to perform its functions. But no producer can guarantee how the product will behave after a long time. Therefore, during installation, consider this factor and fix the insulator accordingly.

Thermal conductivity - another indicator that characterizes the insulation. The highest degree is possessed by materials for the roof. Those that are medium and low - suitable for skeletons.

Water resistance is of great importance in the insulation of walls. Due to temperature changes, moisture can accumulate. Modern materials not only bring it out, but also create the right microclimate in the room.

Pipeline insulation

The biggest trouble for the pipeline is metal corrosion. Since moisture often accumulates on the surface of the pipeline, it begins to rust, its integrity is disturbed and a failure is possible. This process can occur for many other reasons. For example, due to the influence of electric current. It is also necessary to isolate the pipeline with warm water due to heat leakage during transportation.

Insulating material for pipes in most cases has the form of a thin coating, which protects the metal from the influence of moisture, wind, and wandering current. If necessary, to keep heat in the pipeline, they are applied multilayered, for example, from different polymer and bituminous substances.

Types of pipeline insulation

Practice a normal and reinforced type of insulation. The last ones are pipes, which are laid in the ground with an increased content of chemicals. Provided that the pipe diameter is more than 1 m. Bituminous and polymeric materials, glass and varnish coatings and others are used for insulation.

Because of the need to keep the heat in your home and keep it as long as possible in the integrity of communication, there is an increasing need to use insulating materials. Thanks to a wide range of products, you can easily find everything you need, according to your requirements and material possibilities. Do not hesitate to clarify the seller all the information you need.