The construction of various types of objects has become impossible without the use of heaters, which include mineral wool. What is mineral wool and what characteristics does it have - this will be discussed in this article.
Mineral wool - what kind of material is it?
Mineral wool is a material with excellent thermal insulation properties, which are possible due to the fibers of mineral origin, arranged in a chaotic manner. The main advantages of this environmentally friendly product are frost resistance, soundproofing, fire resistance, protection from an environment harmful to health, and water resistance.
To improve the characteristics of mineral wool, many manufacturers add various additives and impurities to the classic composition, thereby presenting us with new brands. But, regardless of the manufacturer, it is produced in the following formats:
- Plates.
- Mats.
- Rolls.
- granular mass.
Types of mineral wool
Mineral wool is the common name for insulation, but there are several types that must be used depending on their purpose. So, mineral wool is divided into the following types:
- Slag cotton. The basis for the manufacture of this type of insulation is the waste of metallurgical production, from which thin threads are formed, which are interconnected by a synthetic binder.
- Glass wool. In the manufacture of this type of mineral wool, glass waste is used, which makes it resistant to chemicals. During the production process, the cullet is melted and threads are made, which are connected into a carpet thanks to a binder solution. After polymerization, the product acquires its amber color.
- Basalt mineral wool. This is the highest quality product, made on the basis of rocks, exactly basalt. Melting volcanic rock to its melting point produces fibers that are formed into carpets and treated with special resins for a binding effect. They are carried out and internal insulation and outdoor.
What is minvata video:
What type of mineral wool is better?
Often, when choosing mineral wool for insulation, a potential buyer pays attention to the price, but the manufacturer is happy to try and mask the low-quality composition of the insulation with different markings, the information decoding of which is not understood by everyone, so the question will be discussed further - which mineral wool is better?
The basalt type of the insulator is excellent for the insulation system outside and inside the building, since it contains strong rocks that can withstand a huge melting temperature, has elastic fibers and low thermal conductivity. Other types of mineral products lag far behind in their characteristics.
Floor insulation
The choice of insulation according to the format of manufacture
As already noted, the manufacturer produces material in four formats: plates, mats, rolls and granules. And which mineral wool to choose depends only on the way it is used.
Ideal for indoor floors and walls roll insulation, but you should not mount it on the rafters of the future roof, otherwise it will slide off after a while. It is better to use basalt insulation in slabs for these purposes, and in two rows.
For aluminum pipes and a heating system, rolled mineral wool will be simply indispensable, since it was originally created for this.
The material in granules is intended for use in hard-to-reach places, but for its blowing, a compressor unit is required.
The mat or slab format is designed specifically for roofs. The insulation has one side coated with foil, which prevents vaporization.
Plates with a polymer film and fiberglass are widely used for wall insulation by a dry method, as they protect against wind and moisture. And slabs-lamellas have greater elasticity, so the insulation of non-standard shapes is not a problem.
Technical characteristics of mineral wool
For right choice and operation of mineral wool, it is necessary to have information about its technical capabilities. These include the thickness, density, thermal conductivity and dimensions of the product. These indicators will help to distinguish one type of insulation from another.
Depending on the format, the thickness of the product varies and has the following indicators:
- The plates are made in a rectangular shape and have a thickness in the range of 1-25 cm. A variety of this indicator exists due to compressed fibers and synthetic glue.
Thin products should be used in places of minimum load, for example, for internal partitions And suspended ceilings, in unused attics.
Plates with a thickness of 20-25 cm must be used in attic rooms and in other places with a large load (thermal insulation front side buildings, insulation of floors, roofs).
- The mineral wool mat format has good softness and elasticity, so it can also be produced in rolls. Mats are available in thicknesses of 2-22 cm, this range depends on the additional finishes (foil, mesh, fiberglass). It is necessary to protect the product from delamination, therefore it can be used for external insulation of the building, roofing and insulation of walls and ceilings.
- The granules have a small thickness, but with the help of a special compressor unit, they are hammered to the desired thickness or layer, according to the project's calculations. Ideal for filling floor cavities and insulating attic space.
Wall insulation
Mineral wool density
The higher the density of mineral insulation, the higher its price. This is due to the amount of fibers in the material: a high density index requires more starting material.
According to technical requirements, the density of 1 m3 can only be determined by the weight of the product and selected for each case separately. For example, for the insulation of a high-rise building, a product with a density of up to 40 kg / m3 should be used, and in the case of thermal insulation of industrial buildings and higher.
Each type of mineral wool has its own density:
- Basalt - 11 - 220 kg / m3.
- Slag wool - no more than 130 kg / m3.
- Glass wool - 75 - 400 kg / m3.
Density directly proportionally affects such characteristics.
Any living space should be well insulated. maintenance comfortable temperature is one of the primary tasks that have to be solved during the construction of a new facility, or after the expiration of time, during its operation. One of the most reliable and quality materials, with which you can achieve heat retention indoors, is mineral wool.
The definition of this insulation is fixed by GOST 31913-2011. This type of materials includes any heaters made from molten rocks and molten metal slags. There are several types of mineral wool, each of them differs in characteristics, performance features.
The materials are similar in composition, the difference is in the duration and volume of the constituent particles that fill the element for insulation. The number and size of the components can be different, properties can be changed. It is important to understand that a variety is required in a particular case. The choice of this or that material is predetermined, depending on the need to withstand mechanical loads, weather conditions in the region.
Composition and types of mineral wool
Various manufacturers offer different variants material structure. They differ in density, composition. In the basis, in any case, there will be a certain rock. More often these are carbonate or basalt-based rocks. All this is the residual composition after metal production. Approximately 10% of the composition of mineral wool is occupied by additives that serve to improve performance.
To increase the density, a binder is used. Usually these are resins with phenol or benite clay. To increase thermal insulation and better conservation material, on top of the insulation is covered with the thinnest paper layer. Particles of aluminum and polyethylene are added to it. You can get more detailed information about the composition of the insulation by reading the information on the package.
Varieties of mineral wool
The characteristics of the insulation are completely dependent on the particles that make up the material.
There are several different heaters:
- The most common type of insulation. The thickness of the villi is 5–15 microns, the length is up to 5 cm. The similar size of the components makes the plates strong and elastic. It is important to observe safety rules during the implementation of insulation measures. Thin threads can damage the airways if you breathe near the composition. The fibers make it itchy skin covering, cause allergies, burning. Be sure to use a respirator and gloves, overalls.
- Slag. It consists of fibers with a thickness of 4-12 microns, their length is 1.5 cm. Due to its composition, there are fatal flaws. They do not allow the use of the material in many areas. When interacting with a metal, it will definitely oxidize. The insulation quickly absorbs liquid, and thermal insulation characteristics are almost completely nullified. Rarely used for work in residential buildings.
- Stone wool. The fibers do not exceed 5–12 microns in thickness, 1.6 cm in length. It is similar in properties to the previous type of cotton wool. The advantage is that the substance is not caustic, which will facilitate the installation process. Water is poorly absorbed, because the material is often used for insulation of residential buildings or utility rooms.
- Basalt wool. Made from gabbro. Does not contain many unpleasant additives such as limestone and other types of slag. Usually, mineral wool insulation is sold in rolls, so that the contents do not deteriorate. long time. The insulation composition does not undergo combustion, melting occurs in direct contact with the flame.
Mineral wool, the dimensions of which can vary greatly depending on the manufacturer, differs in brands. They differ in density and degree of insulation.
Possible options:
- P-75. Density 75 kg/cm 3 .
- P-125. Density 125 kg/cm 3 .
- PZh-175. Density 175 kg/cm 3 .
- PPZH-200. Density 200 kg/cm 3 .
Comparative table of characteristics of mineral wool
| Characteristics | slag wool | stone wool | Basalt wool | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thermal conductivity | 0,46–0,48 | 0,038–0,46 | 0,035–0,042 | 0,035–0,042 |
| Use temperature | -60 … 250 | -60 … 450 | -180 … 600 | -200 … 700 |
| Fire resistance class | NG | NG | NG | NG |
| Sound absorption coefficient | 0,75 … 0,82 | 0,8 … 0,92 | 0,75 … 0,92 | 0,8 … 0,95 |
| Moisture absorption, % | ||||
| Heat capacity | 1000 | 1050 | 1050 | 1050 |
| Number of connecting elements, % by weight | 2,5 … 10 | 2,5 … 10 | 2,5 … 10 | 2,5 … 10 |
Pros and cons of mineral wool
In order to choose the right heat-insulating material, to decide on its variety, it is important to know the advantages and disadvantages.
Among the advantages of mineral wool are:
- High thermal insulation characteristics. Minvata occupies one of the leading positions among heaters in this indicator. It is used everywhere, there is no need to add an additional heat-insulating layer or material.
- Waterproof. Cotton wool passes steam well and absorbs water poorly. Thanks to this property, the walls of the room will always remain dry if the laying is carried out correctly, vapor barrier and waterproofing are added.
- Resistance to chemical compounds. Mineral wool retains its properties and characteristics, does not deteriorate when exposed to aggressive acids, and does not collapse in an alkaline environment.
- High rates of air exchange. Mineral wool insulation allows air to pass through, therefore a comfortable microclimate in the room is maintained. The walls don't get wet. Often there is no need for ventilation.
- Good soundproofing. If the room is insulated with mineral wool, practically no sounds will be heard from the street.
- Fire resistance. One of the important features. The material will not support the flame, contribute to its spread. There is no release of caustic substances during melting.
- Duration of operation. Manufacturers set the service life of the elements at the level of 25-50 years. During this period, microorganisms will not spread in the internal space of the insulation, fungus will multiply. Rodents do not burrow in slabs.
- Ecological purity. The production process does not affect the environment. No harmful substances are emitted during operation.
Disadvantages of mineral wool:
- decrease in performance after getting wet. After water absorption by 2%, the thermal insulation properties are reduced by 10%. To remedy the situation, manufacturers surround mineral wool with additional layers. It is mandatory to install high-quality vapor barrier and waterproofing;
- dust release. This is especially true for glass wool and slag wool. When working, harmful villi are released that can harm human health. When working with the material, it is imperative to use protective elements;
- release of resin vapors. Some manufacturers claim that resin emissions can be harmful to health. However, according to the results of recent studies, it became clear that this is not the case. The amount of dangerous emissions is so small that it is unable to harm a person.
Speaking of shortcomings, it is worth considering the manufacturer. Many disadvantages are practically reduced to nothing thanks to modern additives and additives.
Is mineral wool harmful to health?
Binding elements emit components harmful to humans, this is true. Manufacturers of mineral wool claim that the content of substances that can harm human health in the insulation is negligible. Health safety can only be fully ensured if all prescribed operating rules are followed.
Important: even the slightest deviation from the norm, execution technology, or installation errors lead to negative health consequences.
It is possible to determine that harm to health is caused precisely by mineral wool, according to certain signs. There are headaches, pressure drops. The person's condition worsens slowly, there is a general malaise. It is possible to identify the source of negative feelings only after checking the premises. Sometimes problems arise due to errors made during installation.
Mineral wool contains phenol. The substance is quickly absorbed through the skin, affects the brain. Minimal poisoning can cause nausea, headache. To prevent this, you should follow the installation rules established by the manufacturer.
The choice and use of mineral wool
You can buy goods in the form of tiles or rolled rolls. The insulation is suitable for work with the roof, vertical surfaces, interior space and floor. Possibility of use in other suitable places. Work can be done on flat surface, or with bends - the properties do not change from this. The composition is divided into brands that differ in density. They are used in different places.
Use of mineral wool:
- P-75. Can be used in attics and roofs. The main thing is that wool should not be subjected to heavy loads due to its low density. The composition is wrapped around heating plants, pipes. In the case of a density lower than that of the P-75 grade, use is possible only in places where there is no load at all.
- P-125. Insulate the floor, ceiling, walls between rooms. Can be used as a soundproofing material.
- PZh-175. Due to the high stiffness index, the use of the material is possible on concrete walls or metal sheet profiles.
- PPZH-200. Used in the same place as the previous variety. The difference lies in increasing the fire safety of the material.
The cost of the product depends entirely on the density. The higher the indicator, the more complex the production process. The number of fibers increases, the thermal insulation characteristics increase. You should choose based on the location of the home, on how cold winters and hot summers are.
Characteristics vary depending on the location of the fibers. Vertical arrangement – best protection from noise and heat preservation. Chaotic - increased strength, the ability to withstand dynamic loads.
Be sure to check whether the product is made in accordance with GOST. Information about this is applied to the packaging. Insulation sizes may vary in packaging. Be sure to tell the seller to open it to make sure that the thickness of the sheets is correct personally. It is advisable to purchase goods from manufacturers from Europe. The composition is mainly of better quality than domestic.
Slag wool and glass wool are inexpensive when compared with other materials for insulation. However, you should think carefully before purchasing them. They contribute to the formation of skin redness, an allergic reaction, the skin itches if the installation is performed incorrectly and there is contact with the body. During operation, the same problems are possible for residents of the house.
The best manufacturers of mineral wool
Mineral wool producers cannot be added to the list by determining the best or worst. Each of their materials has its own disadvantages, advantages, there is a difference in characteristics.
The following brands are trusted:
The goods are produced and sold in Russia, although the company's roots are in Denmark. The price markup is minimal, the goods are of decent quality. Builders confirm that the products are worthy of respect. Here, there are increased indicators of fire safety (up to 1000 ° C), noise absorption. Ecological purity is confirmed by the international certificate EcoMaterial Green. Buy only from reliable suppliers - there are a lot of fakes on the market.
| Material name | Material type | purpose | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rockmin | plate | 0.039 | |
| Domrock | mat | heat and sound insulation of ventilated roofs and attics, roofs, walls, wooden beams, suspended ceilings, light frame walls and partitions, as well as floors on logs. | 0.045 |
| Superrock | plate | heat and sound insulation of ventilated coverings and attics, roofs, walls, wooden beams, suspended ceilings, light frame walls and partitions, as well as floors on logs. | 0.035 |
| Panelrock | plate | heat and sound insulation of the walls of external buildings | 0.036 |
| Ventirock max | plate | insulation of ventilated facades | 0.036 |
| Monrock Max | plate | 0.039 | |
| Dachrock prof | plate | insulation of all types of flat roofs | 0.045 |
| Fasrock max | plate | 0.037 | |
| Fasrock L | plate | heat and sound insulation external walls system facade insulation"light wet" method | 0.042 |
| Fasrock | plate | heat and sound insulation of external walls with a facade insulation system using the “light wet” method | 0.039 |
| Stroprock | plate | heat and sound insulation of floors on the ground and ceilings under a concrete screed | 0.041 |
| Alfarock | mat | 0.037 | |
| Rockmata | mat | insulation of pipes and pipelines | 0.036 |
| Wired Mat and Alu Wired Mat | mat | insulation of pipes and pipelines | 0.042 |
Paroc
Cotton wool ideally keeps the size, does not begin to crumble even after 10 years of operation. The product is decent, but the price is high. The manufacturer focuses on high thermal insulation performance. Noise isolation is also excellent.
| Material name | Material type | purpose | Thermal Conductivity (W/mK) |
|---|---|---|---|
| PAROC InVent 80 N3/N1 | plate | soundproofing for ventilation ducts | 0.034 |
| PAROC High Temperature Slab (NT-900) | plate | designed for high operating temperatures (withstands temperatures of 900 0 С) | 0.055 |
| Paroc Extra 50mm/100mm | mats | universal heat-insulating material that is used for insulation frame structures all parts of the building | 0.035 |
| Paroc UNS 37 | plates | universal thermal insulation board made of incombustible mineral fiber, which are used for thermal insulation, sound insulation and fire protection. | 0.037 |
| Paroc Extra Finnish Standard | plates | used for heat, sound insulation and fire protection of walls, roofs and floors in all types of buildings. | 0.042 |
| Paroc ROS 30, 40, 50, 60 | plate | rigid slab designed for single-layer flat roof structures | 0.037 |
| Paroc Linio 10, 15, 18, 20, 80 | plate | for creating thin-layer plaster systems in low-rise construction. | 0.036 |
Isover
Only glass wool is produced and stone wool. The manufacturer has a deservedly good reputation in Russia and abroad. There are all necessary quality certificates. One of the novelties is glass wool without dust and with minimal prickliness. The price / quality ratio here is optimal, although the quality of the products is unlikely to be compared with more expensive brands.
| Material name | Material type | purpose | Thermal Conductivity (W/mK) |
|---|---|---|---|
| ISOVER Classic | roll | insulation of structures where the heat-insulating material should not bear the load | 0,033-0,037 |
| ISOVER Karkas-P32 | plate | 0,032- 0,037 | |
| ISOVER Frame-M37 | mat | insulation of frame structures | 0,037- 0,043 |
| ISOVER Karkas-M40-AL | mat | insulation of frame structures | 0,040- 0,046 |
| ISOVER SoundProtection | plate | insulation of frame structures | 0,038- 0,044 |
| ISOVER Floating Floor | plate | sound insulation of partitions, false ceilings, walls inside the room | 0,033-0,046 |
| ISOVER Karkas-P34 | plate | soundproofing from impact noise when installing a "floating floor" | 0,034-0,040 |
| ISOVER Pitched Roof | plate | insulation of multilayer walls of buildings from small-piece materials | 0,037-0,043 |
| ISOVER OL-TOP, OL-P, OL-Pe | hard plate | pitched roof insulation | 0,037-0,042 |
| ISOVER Vent Facade | plate | flat roof insulation | 0,032-0,040 |
| ISOVER OL-E | hard plate | wall insulation with ventilated gap | 0,034- 0,039 |
| ISOVER Stucco Facade | hard plate | wall insulation with plastering | 0,038- 0,043 |
Knauf
Produces many products for the construction market. Thermal insulation is one of the best, it is used in all areas. Insulation can be specialized, that is, it serves a specific purpose: insulation of heat, noise, steam. Other indicators may be underestimated, thereby lowering the price of the product.
| Material name | Material type | purpose | Thermal conductivity coefficient (W/mK) λ10, λ25, λA1, λB2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thermo Plate 037 | plate | heater for the whole house | 0,037, 0,040, 0,041, 0,043 |
| HEATROOM 037A | plate | roof insulation | 0,037, - , 0,041, 0,043 |
| HEATWALL 032 A | plate | insulation "for siding", prefabricated wall sandwich panels, insulation of hinged ventilated facades | 0.032, - , 0.039, 0.042 |
| HEAT roll 040 | roll | floor insulation attic rooms, attic and interfloor ceilings, floors on logs | 0,040, 0,044, 0,044, 0,047 |
URSA
Offers a new generation of mineral wool. It is carried out using special technology. The product is environmentally friendly. Acrylic binding element, completely safe for health. There are many other types of cotton wool available, which do not differ in price and quality from other manufacturers in the top.
| Material name | Material type | purpose | Thermal Conductivity (W/mK) |
|---|---|---|---|
| URSA GEO М-11 | roll | 0.04 | |
| URSA GEO Universal plates | slabs in a roll | universal material (floor, roof, wall insulation) | 0.036 |
| URSA GEO Pitched roof | slabs in a roll | pitched roof insulation | 0.035 |
| URSA GEO Noise protection | slabs in a roll | insulation frame partitions and walls when facing from the inside | 0.039 |
| URSA GEO Light | roll | insulation of floors, ceilings, acoustic ceilings | 0.044 |
| URSA GEO M-11F | roll | insulation of walls when facing from the inside, insulation of floors, ceilings, baths | 0.04 |
| URSA GLASSWOOL FACADE | mat | insulation systems with ventilated air gap | 0,032-0,043 |
| URSA GLASSWOOI P-15 | plate | pitched roof insulation | 0.042 |
| URSA M-25 | mat | insulation of structures of complex shape | 0.038 |
Often a detailed analysis of competitors, material properties, characteristics, dimensions of insulation, mineral wool or some other, allows you to determine which option is optimal. With mineral wool, it will not be possible to determine. Many manufacturers supply a really high-quality product, approximately equal in price and characteristics.
FAQ
How to determine if cotton wool is of high quality?
The quality of the composition can be checked by examining the packaging. Compliance with GOSTs is necessarily applied on it, a seal is put. A mark on the passage of the relevant examinations is displayed.
How to understand if a product is suitable for the home?
You can determine whether mineral wool is suitable for a particular area of \u200b\u200bthe house by the density of the material. It is worth considering the performance characteristics, the thickness of the walls of the dwelling. For example, cotton wool brand P-75 is not suitable for installation on walls; here it is better to use denser compositions.
What kind of cotton is better?
Determine which type of cotton wool is best, specifications whichever is higher will definitely not work. Each manufacturer offers a product with slightly different characteristics. It is worth choosing based on the price category. It is advisable to purchase only products from trusted manufacturers.
Do rodents start in mineral wool (glass wool, slag stone wool,)?
Rodents start up in mineral wool, so you should think about additional protection material.
Mineral wool is one of the best insulation materials on the market. It has all the necessary characteristics, quality. Correct installation will improve the thermal insulation of any surface of the house, and the durability of the material distinguishes it from other compositions similar in function.
Mineral wool is used for thermal insulation of buildings of all types, heating mains, pipelines. The material is produced on the basis of natural components - rocks with the addition of a synthetic binder. The insulation is characterized by high strength, low thermal conductivity, simple installation. Below are detailed description and characteristics of mineral wool for insulation.
Mineral wool is a heat-insulating material with a fibrous structure, which is produced from mineral raw materials from the bowels of the earth using a synthetic binder. Rock melts are used as raw materials.
Mineral wool has the following varieties:
- Basalt wool(stone)- made from melts of igneous rocks
- slag- made from melted blast-furnace slag
- glass- made from melted glass
Other names for the material are mineral wool, mineral wool insulation.
Composition and production technology of mineral wool
The composition of mineral wool insulation includes silicate melts of blast-furnace slag, igneous and sedimentary rocks. Materials from the earth's crust make up to 80% of its composition. The combination and percentage of occurrence of one or another raw material depends on the type of mineral wool.
Stone wool in its composition contains gabbro or diabase, blast-furnace slag, charge. Mineral components - clay, dolomite, limestone - are added to it as impurities to increase the fluidity of the material. Their content reaches 35%. The binder is a substance based on formaldehyde resin, which is much less in the composition - 2.5-10%.
Slag wool also has a fibrous structure. It is produced from blast-furnace slag - waste from the metallurgical industry during iron smelting in blast furnaces. The fibers of the material have a small size - a thickness of 4-12 microns, a length of up to 16 mm.
The raw materials for the production of glass wool are sand, dolomite, soda, limestone, borax, glass cullet.
The percentage of raw materials is selected so as to ensure the maximum quality of the future fiber - hydrophobicity, chemical neutrality, durability, high thermal insulation performance, resistance to stress.
Production mineral heaters begins with the melting of a mixture of raw materials. To do this, they are loaded into baths, cupolas or shaft melting furnaces. The melting temperature is strictly observed, which is in the range of 1400-1500 C, since the length and width of the fibers depend on the degree of viscosity of the melt, and therefore the technical and thermal insulation properties of mineral wool.
The mixture, brought to the desired degree of viscosity, is then placed in centrifuges with rollers rotating at a speed of more than 7000 rpm. They tear it into thin fibers. In the centrifuge, the fibers are coated with a binder. After that, a powerful stream of air throws them into special camera in which they form a carpet the right sizes.
Then the material goes to a corrugating or lamellar machine, where it is given the necessary shape and volume. After that, it is subjected to high temperature exposure in a heat chamber. In this case, the binders undergo polymerization, and the cotton wool acquires its final volume and shape. The final heat treatment forms the strength characteristics of the insulation. The finished mineral wool is cut into blocks and packed.
The concept of "mineral wool" and materials related to it are defined in GOST 31913-2011(international standard ISO 9229:2007).
Marking and release form
The classification and labeling of mineral wool is based on its density. In accordance with this parameter, the following brands of insulation are distinguished:
- P-75. This is cotton wool with a density of 75 kg / cu. m. It is used to isolate horizontal unloaded surfaces - attics, roofs, as well as to insulate heating pipelines, oil and gas pipelines
- P-125. The density of cotton wool of this brand is 125 kg / cu. m. It is used to isolate unloaded surfaces of any position in space, as well as floors and ceilings, as a middle layer in three-layer walls of low-rise buildings made of expanded clay concrete, brick, aerated concrete
- PZh-175. Cotton wool of this brand insulates walls and ceilings made of reinforced concrete and profiled sheet metal
- PPZH-200. The scope is identical to the previous brand, plus an increase in the fire resistance of engineering and building structures
Manufacturers of mineral wool for insulation offer consumers various forms this material, which have some differences in characteristics and scope:
- Basalt-based slabs have the highest density. They can be used under concrete screeds and in places where the insulation will be subjected to high loads.
- Rolls and mats have a low density, therefore they are intended for warming unloaded structures - floors, walls, roofs, etc. Heat-insulating pierced mats made of mineral wool are used to insulate the surfaces of industrial equipment and pipes with temperatures up to 400 C.
Cylinders with a hole inside are considered the best option for pipe insulation
Characteristics of mineral wool
- Strength. 0.08-06 kg/sq. see depending on the brand of material.
- Density of mineral wool. 35-100 kg/cu.m. m depending on the density of the material. Insulation plates have an average size of 0.6 square meters. m, so they are light in weight, which facilitates installation.
- Shrinkage mineral wool is negligible and amounts to a fraction of a percent. Thanks to this, even with prolonged use, its properties, such as fire resistance and sound absorption, do not deteriorate.
- Thermal conductivity. The coefficient of thermal conductivity of mineral wool depends on the density and is 0.036-0.060 W / mGrad. The thermal conductivity of the insulation is second only to expanded polystyrene materials. It should be taken into account that during the first years of operation, due to the absorption of moisture, the thermal conductivity increases by an average of 50%.
- Frost resistance. Exact values are not specified by GOSTs and TUs. Different manufacturers may have different figures.
- Water absorption. Hydrophobized cotton wool has an indicator of 6-30% when completely immersed in water. Moisture content of dry material - 1%
- Vapor permeability. In the absence of vapor barrier it is equal to 1.
- fire resistance. The material is non-combustible and is used to insulate surfaces with temperatures up to +400 C. Mineral wool fibers begin to melt only after a 2-hour exposure to a temperature of 1000 C.
- Price. Depending on the form of issue, it is determined per sq. m or cu. m. The price of a mineral wool slab depends on many factors - thickness, raw materials used, density, etc. Stores also charge per package.
- Soundproofing. Insulation is used as sound insulation. The sound absorption coefficient of special acoustic mineral wool boards is 0.7-09.
- Toxicity. The results of recent studies show that mineral wool is not harmful to health. According to the IARC classification, it belongs to the 3rd group of carcinogens, which also includes products such as coffee and tea.
- Life time. The term declared by manufacturers is 50 years.
Advantages and disadvantages of mineral wool
Benefits include:
- Low thermal conductivity, making it an excellent insulator
- fire safety
- Resistant to temperature extremes. The material does not deform when heated / cooled
- Chemical and biological stability
- Excellent vapor permeability, thanks to which the material "breathes"
- Ease of installation
Flaws:
- Requires water repellent treatment to reduce moisture absorption. When moisture is absorbed, heat-insulating properties decrease, cold bridges are formed
- Large mass compared to foam, which increases the cost of shipping the material
Applications
Mineral wool is used for heat and sound insulation of buildings and structures, as well as structures and pipelines. Specific Applications:
- Thermal insulation of walls and ceilings of baths
- Unloaded insulation of enclosing structures of any spatial position of all types of buildings
- Thermal insulation of hinged ventilated facades
- Insulation in systems wet facade
- Insulation industrial equipment, networks and highways
- Thermal and sound insulation of roofs
Mounting methods
Mineral wool slabs are mounted in two ways: dry And wet. The first involves laying slabs in the gap between the wall and the sheathing. For this, a wooden or metal carcass. Insulation is laid in the gaps between the profiles. wet way- this is the gluing of plates on the surface of the wall, followed by the application of a primer and reinforcement with a mesh. Mineral wool cylinders are mounted using self-adhesive tape or thin wire.
Questions and answers on the topic
No questions have been asked for the material yet, you have the opportunity to be the first to do soMineral wool, the technical characteristics of which make it possible to consider it one of the most effective heaters today, is an inexpensive and very popular material. Its main advantages are considered low cost and low degree of thermal conductivity. Another undeniable advantage is its versatility. used for ceilings, walls, etc. It is not recommended to use this material only if there is a danger of moisture. The fact is that when wet, mineral wool completely loses its thermal insulation properties.
Varieties of mineral wool
On this moment There are only three main types of mineral wool:
- Glass wool.
- Slag.
- Stone wool.
The main characteristics of glass wool
In the production of glass wool, materials such as soda, lime, borax and sand are used. The main component is glass cullet. After the processing of all these components, fibers are obtained, from which elastic and durable mats are made, which preserve the mineral wool of this variety well, has one rather significant drawback. In the process of performing work on the thermal insulation of structures, the fibers break easily. In this case, small pieces penetrate clothing and dig into the skin, causing severe itching. Moreover, particles with the inhaled air can enter the lungs, causing long-term irritation. Therefore, you need to work with glass wool in a tight work suit, respirator, goggles and gloves. Most likely, it will not be possible to reuse clothes.
Characteristics of slag wool
Slag fibers are made using waste from metallurgical production. The thermal conductivity of this type of mineral wool is the lowest. In addition, it absorbs moisture very quickly. Therefore, experts do not recommend using it for insulation of external walls and water pipes. Another disadvantage of slag wool is its high acidity. In the presence of even a small amount of moisture, when it comes into contact with the metal, the latter is rapidly oxidized. Like glass wool, slag wool is caustic.
Basalt wool
Basalt mineral wool, the technical characteristics of which make it the most popular both among private traders and large developers, is made from rocks of the gabbro-basalt group, metamorphic and marls. This variety does not prick and does not cause metal oxidation. It is afraid of water, but at the same time it has a high degree of vapor permeability. The material of this variety is produced both in slabs and in rolls (mats).
Minvata: technical specifications
Comparative technical characteristics of these three varieties of mineral wool, see the table below.
Variety | Fiber thickness (µm) | Fiber length (mm) | Thermal conductivity index (W/m K.) | Working temperature | combustibility |
glass wool | +450 to -60 | ||||
slag wool | Maximum +300 | May sinter at high temperatures |
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Basalt wool | Up to +1000, provided the mats are not deformed |
The density of mineral wool can vary from 11 to 144 kg / m 3.
Mineral wool reviews
They speak about how about a heater more than positively. It is this type of heat insulator that is currently considered the most popular and widespread in the world. Good feedback both private homeowners and large developers explain about it, first of all, by its excellent thermal insulation properties, ease of installation and low cost. However, some owners of suburban areas still treat this material with caution. The fact is that mineral wool is capable of emitting harmful dust and vapors into the air. However, manufacturers claim that all harmful substances contained in it in such small quantities that no negative impact do not have on the body.
But still it is believed that mineral wool insulation involves careful sealing of the structure. As for the manufacturer, many speak well of mineral wool brands such as Isover and Ursa. Knauf and Rockwool cotton wool is also praised.
Comparison with other materials
We will talk about how the ceiling is insulated with mineral wool and the floor and walls are sheathed with this material. First, let's compare this type of insulation with other popular varieties. These include, for example, ecowool, polystyrene, expanded polystyrene, polyurethane foam, sandwich panels, etc. All of them are quite effective. Expanded polystyrene is considered the second most popular after mineral wool. It costs not much more and at the same time has almost the same technical characteristics. Its main difference from mineral wool is that it is not afraid of moisture, weighs less and is flammable. Polyurethane foam has the lowest degree of thermal conductivity known at the moment. However, it costs much more than mineral wool and polystyrene foam and is also very difficult to install.
The use of mineral wool
Most often used for insulation of walls, roofs and ceilings. The installation technology in all these cases is similar. It does not differ in any particular complexity. This is to a large extent what makes this material so popular with private developers.
Mineral wool, the technical characteristics of which allow it to be used for insulating structures made of almost any material, does not burn at all. Therefore, it is it that is used for the insulation of structures in rooms with an increased risk of fire.
The use of mineral wool for wall insulation
The walls are insulated in several stages:
- A frame (usually wooden) is attached to their surface. The thickness of the bars in this case should be equal to the width of the insulation. They are mounted so that the mineral wool stands between them as tightly as possible. Sometimes the plates are additionally attached to the wall surface with special dowels - "fungi".
- Before installing the plates, if the insulation is carried out from the side of the street, a vapor barrier is stretched between the frame bars.
- Next, the mineral wool itself is installed. The thickness of the plates can vary from 40 to 200 mm.
- At the next stage, a waterproofing film is stretched over the plates. They fasten it with bars, stuffing the latter directly onto the frame. The film is usually mounted horizontally, with an overlap of 15 cm. When insulated from the inside, the procedure for installing vapor and waterproofing films is reversed.
- At the final stage, a fine finishing material is installed on the bars of the resulting counter-lattice.
Use of wool for floor insulation
The floors are insulated about the same. Only in this case, not a frame is used, but wooden logs. The floors between them are pre-laid waterproofing material. Next are the insulation mats. On top of them, a vapor barrier film is mounted on the bars (with foil inside the room). Next, they stuff sexual or edged board. Then they mount the final floor finish - laminate, linoleum, parquet, etc.
Using mineral wool to insulate the ceiling
The insulation of the ceiling with mineral wool is carried out in the same order as the insulation of the walls. That is, the frame is first stuffed, then the plates are mounted, then the vapor barrier, and on last step - fine finish. In this case, the plates are necessarily additionally attached to the "fungi" or glue.
Attic insulation technology from the inside
Insulation of attics and attics from the inside is performed as follows:
- Rafter legs and all wooden elements roofs are carefully treated with antiseptic compounds and agents that increase the resistance of the material to fire. Since roof waterproofing is always carried out already at the stage of its construction, there is no need to take this step in the process of warming from the inside.
- Further, mineral wool slabs are inserted between the rafters and fixed with wire.
- After that, as in the first two cases, a vapor barrier is installed on the bars.
- At the last stage, the attic is sheathed with clapboard, plywood or drywall.
Minvata: price
Of course, those who decide to use this material for home insulation would like to know how much such work will cost. The cost of basalt wool can vary quite seriously depending on:
- From the manufacturer. For example, mineral wool from the Rockwool and Knauf firms (1000-1500 rubles per sheet of 12-18 square meters) costs a little more than Ursa (600-700 rubles).
- material thickness. Of course, the thicker the material, the more expensive it is.
- Its density. Soft mats in rolls are cheaper than hard boards.
Thus, mineral wool, the price of which is democratic, is a heater, of course, worthy of attention. Sheathing walls, floors or ceilings with this material means making your home warm and cozy for many years.
Mineral wool belongs to the category of universal heaters. Due to the huge number of its benefits, it has unlimited application. There are several varieties of this material. We will talk about their features and the advantages of mineral wool as a heater further.
Mineral wool: origin and manufacturing features
Mineral wool is a material intended for thermal insulation, which consists of thin, glassy fibers intertwined with each other. They are made in the process of pulverization of a certain kind of slag, stones or basalt. The quality and density of mineral wool depends on the length and diameter of the fibers. The production process of mineral wool is based primarily on the production of minimal fibers, which are interconnected using a binder.
In order to better understand the properties of mineral wool, one should carefully study the process of its origin. The production of mineral wool is conditionally divided into the following stages:
1. Determination of the type of raw material and its preparation for melting.
At this stage, the composition of mineral wool is determined, in which a certain proportionality of the ingredients is observed. It has a name - a mixture. Most often, this composition contains two, maximum three components. Each of the manufacturers of mineral wool has its own proportions of ingredients in this composition. It is on the proportionality and type of mineral wool ingredients that its further versatility, resistance to moisture, temperature changes and compression depend. In addition, the product must have high thermal insulation properties. The quality of mineral wool is determined primarily by its fiber, its size and chemical constituents. Before mixing the ingredients, they undergo a grinding and drying procedure. Already in the dosing chamber, they are selected according to the specified proportions.
2. The procedure for melting the components.
After all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed together, they are melted at a temperature of about one and a half thousand degrees Celsius. This stage is the main part of the mineral wool production process. It is the temperature in the oven that determines the consistency of the resulting mixture and the length of the fibers of the finished product.
Most often, fuel in the form of natural gas is used to heat such a furnace, it is with its help that it is possible to achieve such high temperature.
3. Making fibers of the material.
The molten mass having a certain viscosity is in the area of fiber formation. For these purposes, developed special devices in the form of multi-roll centrifuges and fiber distributors. The composition falls on the roll, which rotates at a very high speed. As a result, fibers are formed, to which are also added different kind additives and water-repellent mixtures. Then the fibers are in the chamber of their cooling and form a homogeneous web.
On a special kind of machine, the canvas passes special treatment fiber orientation. Due to this, mineral wool is characterized by almost zero shrinkage.
4. Polymerization procedure.
The canvas is in the heat treatment chamber, where it solidifies. All binders are endowed with certain physical properties, it is this process that further affects the quality of the finished product.
5. Form definition.
Mineral wool is available both in the form of slabs and in roll version. At this stage, it is cut and packed according to size.
6. Packing.
Last, The final stage involves packaging finished material and send it for sale.
Characteristics of mineral wool: advantages and disadvantages of insulation
First, let's get acquainted with the advantages of mineral wool:
1. Good thermal insulation performance.
Due to the fact that the fibers thermal insulation material have a special subtlety, it is a universal and very good heat-insulating material. If we compare the indicators of its thermal conductivity with other alternative heaters, then mineral wool will certainly win.
2. Fire safety.
Mineral wool is used in any areas whose temperature does not exceed 1000 degrees. Until this temperature is reached, mineral wool is not able to melt. Therefore, it is an excellent option for insulating walls, floors, ceilings and interfloor ceilings. Using mineral wool, to some extent, it is possible to prevent a fire, since it is not capable of spreading fire.
3. Resistance to chemical compounds.
This property also expands the scope of mineral wool. Its composition is absolutely resistant to all kinds of chemical influences.
4. Biological stability.
This advantage is primarily due to the fact that mineral wool is not eaten by rodents such as rats or mice, unlike polystyrene. And, therefore, throughout the entire period of its operation, it remains unchanged both in form and in composition. In addition, due to its good moisture resistance, mineral wool is resistant to fungus and mold, which is especially important for ensuring a healthy atmosphere and indoor microclimate.
5. Excellent sound insulator.
The chaotic arrangement of mineral wool fibers allows you to use it not only as a heater, but also for soundproofing rooms. Mineral wool is used even for installation on doors, as it is not able to let extraneous sounds into the room.
6. Ability to cope with static loads.
Due to its good density, mineral wool perfectly withstands static loads, therefore it is used for insulating floors, ceilings and other critical elements. Even after 40 years of its operation, mineral wool does not shrink. And the duration of its operation depends on the tendency of the insulation to deformation. Since, shrinkage leads to the appearance of cold bridges and to an increase in heat loss.
7. Vapor performance.
Due to the fact that mineral wool allows air to pass through, a healthy atmosphere is maintained in the room and natural air exchange occurs.
8. Environmental safety.
The composition of mineral wool contains a binder based on formaldehyde resins, however, during the manufacture of insulation, this resin becomes absolutely harmless, and during further operation does not emit harmful substances.
9. Long term use.
The service life of mineral wool is more than 45 years. Since this material is practically not shrinkable, it tolerates well high humidity, sudden changes in temperature and atmospheric phenomena, it is able to maintain its characteristics throughout the entire period of its use.
In addition, mineral wool is an excellent insulation for facades, as it has a high tear strength. This material easy to handle and install.
Despite this, mineral wool has several disadvantages, among which should be highlighted:
- mineral wool is able to function normally as a heater, only in combination with additional materials vapor barrier and waterproofing character;
- when working with mineral wool, it is necessary to use protective gloves, a mask and goggles, as there is a risk of getting the smallest fibers on the skin and irritating it;
- it is not recommended to allow constant contact of mineral wool with moisture.
Scope of mineral wool for insulation
Due to its versatility and a large number positive characteristics, mineral wool has a wide range of applications, namely:
- in the process of thermal insulation of ventilated facades;
- in the arrangement of three-layer masonry;
- insulation of walls, ceilings, floors, floors;
- production of roofing pies in the process of arranging a high-quality roof;
- as a heat-insulating material for roofing;
- with external wall insulation;
- in the process of manufacturing products from reinforced concrete;
- for thermal insulation of communication systems: pipelines, gas pipelines, etc.;
- in most building structures;
- when warming balconies and attics, as well as loggias.
Types of mineral wool and their characteristics
In relation to the characteristics of the production of mineral wool, it can be of three types:
- based on fiberglass;
- based on slag;
- stone mineral wool.
Each of the materials has individual characteristics, in particular, the length and arrangement of the fibers, different resistance to deformation, moisture, loads, etc.
Mineral wool based on fiberglass or glass wool has fibers whose thickness is not more than 14 microns and a length of up to five centimeters. This material is characterized by the highest strength and elasticity. Please note that it requires the use of special protective equipment during operation, as small glass particles can get on the skin and cause irritation.
Glass wool has a good coefficient of thermal conductivity, it is able to withstand temperatures up to 450 degrees of heat and 50 degrees of cold.
The second option is the use of slag wool. For the manufacture of this insulation, blast-furnace slag is used, the fibers of which do not exceed twelve microns in thickness, and not more than one and a half millimeters in length.
The slag is unstable to an acidic environment, so it has limited use in metal surfaces. In addition, this insulation has a high hygroscopic ability, so it cannot be used in the process of insulation of facades and other external structures. The cost of slag wool is an order of magnitude lower than, for example, glass wool. Due to its fragility, it is not used for the insulation of pipelines and communication systems.
Slag wool is able to withstand temperatures up to 300 degrees Celsius, when exposed to a higher temperature, it loses its thermal insulation properties. In addition, it has a high hygroscopicity, which significantly limits its scope. The biggest advantage of this insulation is its lower cost compared to alternatives.
Stone or basalt mineral wool - differs in the same small fibers as slag wool. However, this material does not tend to cause irritation or allergies. In addition, it has high thermal insulation performance. The best option for stone wool is a material based on basalt rocks. This material can withstand temperatures up to a thousand degrees of heat and up to two hundred degrees of frost, without changing the thermal insulation characteristics.
Basalt stone wool is sold both in rolls and in slabs. It is very easy to use, not prone to deformation, not prone to burning. This option mineral wool is the most the best choice for use as a heater.
Heat-insulating mineral wool: features of choice
In order to buy mineral wool, it is enough to contact any hardware store or a supermarket. For mineral wool, the price is determined primarily by its type, the cheapest is slag wool, glass wool is a little more expensive, and the most expensive option is basalt stone wool.
The thickness of mineral wool is different, its choice depends on the type of coating on which the insulation will be installed.
In addition, in relation to the size of mineral wool, various types of slabs and rolls are also distinguished. Each of the manufacturers has its own dimensional grid of finished products.
Stone wool is divided into the following subspecies:
- granular - manufactured by a special compressor unit, relevant for places where the installation of conventional insulation is not possible;
- in the form of slabs coated with bitumen - great option for laying roofing finishing materials;
- in the form of lamellar plates - it is distinguished by the presence of fibers that are not arranged in a chaotic, but in a perpendicular manner, has good elasticity and flexibility, is suitable for thermal insulation of pipelines.
We offer you to get acquainted with the main manufacturers of mineral wool:
1. Rockwool mineral wool - the material has a low coefficient of thermal conductivity, excellent air permeability, does not absorb moisture, and is non-combustible. In addition, the mineral wool of this manufacturer is resistant to mold, insects and rodents, environmentally friendly and has good soundproofing characteristics. Among the huge range of products, it is possible to choose exactly the type of mineral wool that is suitable for individual characteristics area that needs to be insulated.
2. Mineral wool "Izover" - is made in the form of plates, rolls or mats, has two forms: rigid and semi-rigid. The material is used in the process of insulating roofs, interfloor ceilings, floors, facade parts of a building or walls. The material retains air by 99%, therefore, during operation, its thermal conductivity qualities only increase.
3. Mineral wool Ursa - this insulation is based on fiberglass or quartz glass. The material is good fire safety, it is practically non-flammable, in addition, the mineral wool of this manufacturer is environmentally friendly.
Before buying mineral wool, you should also study the recommendations for choosing it, which are presented below:
1. Pay attention to the place and storage conditions of the material. All products must be stored in the packaging in which they were packed at the factory.
2. If mineral wool is sold in boxes, contact with moisture or damp environments should be minimized.
3. Even for a little money, you should not buy wet cotton wool, because after drying it loses its properties.
4. Identify several manufacturers for yourself, read reviews about them, and then make a purchase decision.
5. Pre-calculate the required amount of wool, in relation to the area of the area to be insulated.
Mineral wool video:
