Foam panels provide insulation for vehicles and structures, but exposure to UV light, chemicals, and humidity affects longevity. Foil-backed foam panels reflect UV light, while SIPs sandwich foam between sheet metal for structural support. Maintenance is necessary to ensure insulation effectiveness.
Foam panels are made up of closed cell compressed foam that provides insulation for various vehicle parts and structures. Each type of foam board is designed to provide a specific insulating or building function by providing adequate protection against the elements which could cause the closed cell foam contained within the board to rupture. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, chemicals and humidity will affect the longevity of the installed panel. Selecting the correct foam board for a specific application ensures that the board provides the required amount of insulation while remaining stable in the installation environment.
Foil-backed unsupported foam panels install to various parts of a structure with an adhesive and are able to withstand direct contact with UV light. The metal foil facing the material reflects the UV light hitting the insulation board, preventing it from coming into contact with the foam board. Constant inspection of the metal coating is required to ensure that UV light does not penetrate the protective barrier. When damage is found, a metal foil tape is laid over the damaged area to provide a reflective repair that continues to protect the installed insulation. Another type of foam board uses a similar process to protect the insulation, but has the ability to withstand harsher environments and isn’t easily damaged.
Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) sandwich a foam board between two pieces of thin sheet metal and are often interlocking panels that act as both a structural component and insulation. The type of sheet metal used in the construction of a SIP panel will vary depending on the environment and use of the finished structure. Stainless steel and aluminum are common sheet metal used to provide external support for a SIP panel designed for installation in areas subject to high humidity or extreme temperature changes. Painted Mild Steel Sandwiches SIP panels are used for self contained structures, walk-in coolers, which require additional strength.
Each type of foam or structural insulation board requires route cleaning, inspection and maintenance to ensure the boards provide the required insulating value for the application. Damaged and split sections of foam board allow for heat transfer between spaces separated by the board. A simple visual inspection of the exposed panel surface will show early signs of damage and potential problems. Repairing any nicks, tears, or loose sections of foam board with tape or epoxy filler before the board deteriorates keeps the foam intact and stable.
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