Sandwich panels – key features, application, manufacture
The growing popularity of sandwich panels is primarily due to the favorable technical parameters of this material, as well as the attractive price. Although it is a relatively new product, we can already see it in many buildings, both private and public.
Table of Contents:
- What are sandwich panels?
- Stages of material production
- Key features and benefits of the product
- Where are panelboards used?
Double-layer board – what is it?
Sandwich panels, also available as “panel boards” are a composite building material used to enclose walls and roofs and form the body of a building. We distinguish between wall and roof sandwich panels. Regardless of the type, they consist of the same elements: steel, profiled sheets in the outer layers and an inner insulating layer, also called filler or core.
How is this material created?
The process of creating sandwich panels consists of several very important steps and is an iterative process, no matter what type of material we are dealing with. It is carried out in an automated manner.
First, a sheet is prepared – with the shape and parameters derived from the technical documentation. It is the one that forms the outer layer of each sandwich board and is a typically structural element. This is followed by the core of the material, or insulation layer. Various materials are used for this purpose, but the most common are mineral wool, polyurethane foam or polystyrene foam. State-of-the-art products, including Kingspan sandwich panels, feature innovative cores with increased values for particular parameters. The next step is to connect the sheet metal to the insulation core. This stage takes place on the production line. It is based on the phenomenon of adhesion, or the ability of materials to bond with each other.
However, before the sandwich panel is transported, it undergoes quality control. Among other things, specialists check whether its thickness and shape agree with the technical recommendations for the product. The slab is also sent for so-called seasoning – a break during which it acquires the right temperature. For delivery, the material is properly secured.
What are the characteristics of panelboards?
Wall and roof sandwich panels have many features that are appreciated by every construction investor. They are primarily a highly thermally insulating material. Thus, they prevent heat from escaping from the building and contribute to creating the desired thermal comfort inside the house (or other type of building). They also offer favorable sound insulation. This feature is important especially in construction projects taking place in close proximity to traffic arteries or in the creation of industrial buildings. In addition, the material shows high resistance to mechanical and even fire damage. It is lightweight and handy, making installation faster, and available in a variety of aesthetic and size options. Also in favor is the relatively low cost of purchasing such a product.
Sandwich boards – application
Due to the aforementioned features, sandwich panels are used in the construction industry in the broadest sense of the term, and co-create, among others: production halls and warehouses, office and commercial buildings, public buildings, cold stores and freezers, logistics centers, various types of workshops, as well as buildings on farms.
