What is the difference between PIR and QuadCore insulation foam?

While PIR and PUR have been used for decades, there’s another advanced insulation that outshines both in fire protection and thermal performance: Kingspan’s QuadCore Technology. With 11 percent better thermal performance than PIR and up to 60 percent improvement over PUR, it is unrivaled in the market. Its fire resistance meets the highest insurance and regulatory standards. As we continue to look for building solutions that are energy efficient, QuadCore is the newest generation of insulation technology in a family of innovation to keep us safe, warm and dry.

How wide are insulated metal panels?

Commercial insulated metal panels are usually 24 inches to 42 inches in width, while cold storage panels are usually 45 3/8" wide. The exact width will depend on specific product specifications.

Are insulated metal panels tested?

All Kingspan panels manufactured in North America have been thoroughly evaluated by independent third-party testing laboratories for building code compliance and are covered under various product approval listings. In addition, Kingspan insulated panels carry a range of third-party verified Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and material health and transparency certifications for products offered in North America. To view our product sustainability certifications, please visit our certification page. For full testing specifications, please refer to our testing chart on individual product page or contact our Technical Services department.

What is the R-value of insulated metal panels?

The R-value of insulated metal panels depend entirely on the insulated foam core used. PUR is typically 5-7.1 per inch, while PIR is typically in the 7-7.2 per inch range. The insulation core with one of the highest R-values is QuadCore®, with an R-value of 8.0 per inch. Because of this, most insulated metal panels have an R-value of R-5 to R-64, with panels ranging from 1 inch thick to 8 inches thick. With Kingspan's QuadCore®, R-values can reach as high as R-72. Kingspan insulated panels manufactured in North America use either PIR or QuadCore® insulation foam, with R-values starting at 7.2 per inch for PIR and at 8.0 per inch for QuadCore®. These thermal resistance R-values are quoted at 75°F. For cold storage applications, we offer insulated panels with R-values of up to 9.0 per inch, as measured at 35°F.

How much do insulated metal panels cost?

The exact price depends on specific product used, application and building size. Insulated metal panels are a cost-effective solution compared to other building materials. The benefit of IMPs is the short install time due to less trades being needed onsite. As a result, insulated metal panels can be installed in up to half the time of a traditional multi-part built-up system, saving cost in construction time. IMPs can also save on long-term energy costs due to the increased R-values. As a whole, insulated metal panels are a less-expensive alternative to building material such as concrete.

What is an insulated metal panel?

Insulated metal panels are exterior roof and wall panels that are comprised of two pieces of steel skin with insulation foam in the middle. The insulated foam core can range from a variety of material, but the most common options are PUR (polyurethane), PIR (polyisocyanurate), and QuadCore® (self-blended hybrid insulation core).

How thick is an insulated metal panel?

Insulated metal panels can be as thin as 1 inch, or as thick as 8 inches for cold storage wall panels. Most IMPs for commercial buildings are in the 1 inch - 6 inch range. Our KS Series of commercial wall panels ranges in thickness size from 2 inches to 6 inches. Our KS Shadowline Interior panel, a cold storage product, is available in multiple thickness from 2 inches to 8 inches.

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