What Are the Differences Between PU and PIR Sandwich ...

What Are the Differences Between PU and PIR Sandwich Panel?

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2021-04-11

PU sandwich panels and PIR sandwich panels are essential components produced by sandwich panel manufacturing lines. But what are the characteristics of these two distinct types of sandwich panels? What sets them apart?

Understanding the Basics: PU vs. PIR Sandwich Panels

PIR foam and PUR polyurethane foam are fundamentally different insulating materials. However, they share the same or remarkably similar reactant groups because the raw materials used in their creation are alike or nearly identical. This leads to them being called sister products. PIR stands for polyisocyanurate acid-modified polyurethane. It results from modifying polyurethane foam with polyisocyanurate acid, significantly altering its performance compared to standard polyurethane foam. Despite the limited number of facilities mastering PIR technology, leading them to appear similar in shape, the two foams are inherently different. The full name of PIR is indeed lengthy, hence commonly referred to as PIR foam or polyurethane PIR foam. Meanwhile, the regular polyurethane foam is often called polyurethane PUR foam or PU foam to distinguish the two.

Detailed Analysis of PU Sandwich Panels

PU sandwich panels, also known as polyurethane sandwich panels or polyurethane energy-saving panels, are made with rigid polyurethane foam as an insulating layer sandwiched between two layers of color steel plates. These panels are typically utilized for walls and roofing in industrial buildings, logistics facilities, and integrated housing. As a professional supplier in China, Jinggong offers not only PU sandwich panel production lines but also rock wool sandwich panel production lines. Contact us if you require either of these.

In-Depth Look at PIR Sandwich Panels

PIR sandwich panels, also known as polyisocyanate sandwich panels, are created from the reaction between isocyanate and polyether, facilitated by a catalyst. These panels offer superior physical and fire-resistant properties compared to typical polyurethane. They are excellent organic low-temperature insulation materials, characterized by low thermal conductivity, lightweight shock resistance, and strong adaptability. PIR sandwich panels find usage across various fields, including oil refineries, chemical plants, ethylene plants, fertilizer facilities, cold storage, and the construction industry.

Key Differences Between PU and PIR Sandwich Panels

(1) Fire Resistance Differences:

• PU Foam: Generally rated at B3, but can reach B2 with flame retardants.
• PIR Foam: Typically B2, but can achieve B1 with the right polyisocyanurate acid ring concentration and formula, with an oxygen index exceeding 35%.

(2) Thermal Insulation Properties:

• PU Foam: Thermal conductivity between 0.022 to 0.026 W/mK at 25 degrees Celsius.
• PIR Foam: Thermal conductivity as low as 0.018 W/mK at 25 degrees Celsius.

(3) Bulk Density:

• PU Foam: Generally 35-45kg/m3 to meet strength requirements.
• PIR Foam: Generally 45-55kg/m3 to meet strength requirements.

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(4) Temperature Range:

• PU Foam: Effective below 110 degrees Celsius.
• PIR Foam: Effective up to 205 degrees Celsius.

(5) Water Absorption:

• PU Foam: Usually between 2.5 to 3%.
• PIR Foam: Up to 0.9%.

Understanding the Core Differences Between PUR/PIR and Rock Wool Sandwich Panels

Sandwich panels are versatile insulation systems comprising two metal sheets with an insulating core in between. The panel's characteristics depend heavily on the insulating material used.

Characteristics and Benefits of PUR/PIR Sandwich Panels

Panels featuring a rigid PUR/PIR insulation core boast very low thermal conductivity, are lightweight, and have an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. The core comprises foam from the reaction of isocyanate and polyol, mixed with other additives to achieve specific properties. The PIR system, rich in aromaticity due to its polyisocyanurate structure, provides better thermal stability compared to urethane groups (PUR), enhancing fire resistance.

Features and Advantages of Rock Wool Sandwich Panels

The core of rock wool panels is typically adhered to metal sheets with a polyurethane-based adhesive. Rock wool, made from volcanic rocks and various minerals, offers medium thermal insulation and excellent acoustic insulation with good fire resistance.

Deciding Between Polyurethane and Rock Wool Sandwich Panels

Polyurethane sandwich panels offer lower thermal conductivity than rock wool, achieving better insulation with less thickness. This makes them ideal for buildings and installations with high thermal efficiency needs, such as the refrigeration industry. Rock wool panels, however, are often used for sectorization. While modern PIR panels also offer excellent fire resistance, polyurethane panels are much lighter and easier to transport and install, compared to rock wool panels.

The company is a leading supplier of Thermal Insulation Carved Metal Composite Sandwich Panels. We provide a comprehensive range of high-quality products, supported by a team of experts ready to assist you in finding the perfect solution for your needs.