The choice of sandwich panel filler for cleanrooms depends on fire safety and thermal insulation requirements. We compare the characteristics of mineral wool and polyurethane panels.
In cleanroom construction, choosing the sandwich panel filler material is a critical decision requiring comprehensive consideration. Rock wool and polyurethane are the two most commonly used fillers, each with unique advantages. Based on years of project experience, EMT provides an in-depth analysis of the differences.
Rock wool panels have an absolute advantage in fire resistance. Rock wool is a Class A non-combustible material that will not burn or produce toxic fumes even at temperatures of 1000°C. For pharmaceutical, chemical, and other industries with extremely high fire safety requirements, rock wool panels are virtually the only option. Additionally, rock wool offers excellent sound insulation, reducing noise by 30-40dB.
Polyurethane (PU) panels excel in thermal insulation. Their thermal conductivity is approximately half that of rock wool, meaning polyurethane panels can be made thinner to achieve the same insulation effect, saving interior space. Polyurethane panels also weigh only 1/3 of rock wool panels, significantly reducing structural load requirements and enabling faster installation.
From a cost perspective, polyurethane panels have slightly higher unit prices than rock wool, but due to faster installation and lower structural requirements, overall construction costs are comparable. Regarding service life, polyurethane panels have better moisture resistance than rock wool, offering advantages in high-humidity environments.
EMT recommends: for projects requiring Class A fire rating (such as pharmaceutical and chemical plants), rock wool panels are mandatory; for projects where B1 fire rating is sufficient (such as electronics and food factories), polyurethane panels are the more cost-effective choice. EMT can provide professional selection advice based on specific project requirements.
Rock wool panels have an absolute advantage in fire resistance. Rock wool is a Class A non-combustible material that will not burn or produce toxic fumes even at temperatures of 1000°C. For pharmaceutical, chemical, and other industries with extremely high fire safety requirements, rock wool panels are virtually the only option. Additionally, rock wool offers excellent sound insulation, reducing noise by 30-40dB.
Polyurethane (PU) panels excel in thermal insulation. Their thermal conductivity is approximately half that of rock wool, meaning polyurethane panels can be made thinner to achieve the same insulation effect, saving interior space. Polyurethane panels also weigh only 1/3 of rock wool panels, significantly reducing structural load requirements and enabling faster installation.
From a cost perspective, polyurethane panels have slightly higher unit prices than rock wool, but due to faster installation and lower structural requirements, overall construction costs are comparable. Regarding service life, polyurethane panels have better moisture resistance than rock wool, offering advantages in high-humidity environments.
EMT recommends: for projects requiring Class A fire rating (such as pharmaceutical and chemical plants), rock wool panels are mandatory; for projects where B1 fire rating is sufficient (such as electronics and food factories), polyurethane panels are the more cost-effective choice. EMT can provide professional selection advice based on specific project requirements.