PIR Panel vs EPS Panel: Which Insulation Material is Best for Your Project?

When constructing energy-efficient production facilities, warehouses, or residential buildings, choosing the right insulation is crucial. Two common types of rigid insulation used in insulation panels are Polyisocyanurate (PIR) panel and Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) panel. While they may seem similar, they have distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different applications.

Technology

Polyisocyanurate (PIR):
PIR panel is a fireproof insulation material derived from polyurethane. In PIR insulated panels, the space between metal sheets is filled with polyisocyanurate foam on continuous production lines. This process creates a homogeneous insulating layer, enhancing the strength and thermal properties of the panels compared to EPS-core panels.

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS):
EPS panel is a rigid insulation made by expanding polystyrene polymer beads into foam using steam. These beads are then dried, stabilized, and formed into EPS blocks. For EPS insulated panels, the expanded polystyrene is cut into lamellas and glued to metal facings, which can negatively impact the strength and thermal insulation characteristics of the panels.

Thermal Conductivity

Energy efficiency is a key factor when selecting insulation. PIR panels have a thermal conductivity of 0.022 W/mK, which is lower than any other insulation material. In comparison, EPS has a thermal conductivity of around 0.037 W/mK. The lower the value, the better the insulation performance. Under the same conditions, PIR boards can save heat and cold by 68% more efficiently than EPS boards, leading to significant savings on heating and cooling costs.

Thickness

Due to its lower thermal conductivity, a 100 mm thick PIR Premier sandwich panel can insulate as effectively as a 160 mm thick EPS panel. This difference means PIR panels can save 60 mm of usable area.

Reaction to Fire

Fire resistance is another critical factor. A 100 mm thick PIR sandwich panel can maintain its load-bearing capacity and integrity for 30 minutes in a fire. In contrast, EPS panels lose these properties after just 15 minutes.

Moisture Resistance

Both PIR and EPS provide excellent moisture resistance due to their closed-cell structure, which prevents water absorption.

Resistance to Rodents

PIR is a solid closed-cell material with a rigid structure, making it unattractive to rodents. On the other hand, EPS consists of spherical beads fused together, making it softer and less dense, and more appealing to rodents.

If you have more questions about PIR and EPS, our engineers are ready to help. Contact us via email, and we’ll respond the same day. With over 13 years of experience in the market, we know how to choose the right insulation to optimize the costs of your project.