When specifying thermal break materials for upcoming projects, it is essential that the correct product is chosen, as specifying the wrong product can lead to construction delays and unnecessary costs during the build and afterwards.
Instead, proper research must be undertaken as well as advice to ensure that the risk of these problems are minimised.
Here at Armatherm™, we’re committed to not only supplying high quality products, but also in educating Specifiers and Engineers with what product would be right for their project.
In this blog, we explain the differences between two of our best selling products: Armatherm™ 500 and Armatherm™ FRR.
When to use Armatherm™ 500
The Armatherm™ 500 Series is a high-strength, closed-cell polyurethane thermal break available in four densities (160, 250, 320, and 490 kg/m³). Because of its low thermal conductivity, it is one of the most thermally efficient materials, capable of improving R values by up to 30%. Despite many of its advantages, it should be specified according to the structural and thermal requirements of the application.
Some situations of when to use Armatherm™ 500 are:
Where load requirements are moderate
- Depending on the selected density grade, the 500 Series can be used in a range of foundation and slab applications with moderate compressive loads
Maximum thermal efficiency is priority and continuous insulation is required
- For projects which need continuous insulation in order to achieve effective thermal efficiency, Armatherm™ 500 can be installed to isolate high heat loss areas such as at slab-on-grade to foundation wall transitions and wall-above-foundation connections
In moisture-prone conditions
- Due to its closed cell structure, it does not absorb water or moisture, helping reduce moisture-related durability risks
When to use Armatherm™ FRR
Armatherm™ FRR (Fire Rated Resin) is a reinforced thermoset resin thermal break engineered for structural steel connections where high compressive loads, shear resistance and fire performance are all required. Because of these properties, FRR is the preferred choice wherever there are steel-to-steel connections that penetrate the building envelope.
Some situations of when to use Armatherm™ FRR are:
Where high structural loads are needed
- With a strong loading pressure and high compressive modulus, FRR is suited to heavily loaded connections that may exceed the capabilities of lower-density thermal break materials
Fire compliance is required
- At 20 mm thickness, FRR achieves a Euroclass B fire rating, which may be required for exposed connections in occupied and commercial buildings
Steel-on-steel connections
- FRR is specifically designed to interrupt thermal bridging and work towards continuous insulation while reducing heat transfer through the building envelope
Limited creep under load
- Made from a thermoset resin, FRR’s molecular construction resists long-term degradation, protecting the longevity of the building
Example details & typical assemblies
As each thermal break material has its own qualities, they are each beneficial for varying applications. For example, Armatherm™ 500 would be specified for parapets, slab/floor edges and roof penetrations, to name a few. Whereas with Armatherm™ FRR having been specifically designed for steel-on-steel connections, it is more likely that it would be specified for balconies, canopies, masonry shelf angles and rain screens.
There are some cases where either product could be used such as at column bases and roof penetrations, however as mentioned before, it would only be in projects where there are higher structural loads that FRR would be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where balconies involve structural steel connections penetrating the building envelope, Armatherm FRR would be best suited for these projects. However, because of the steel rods that extend out from the internal floor to the balcony, we have developed a new product – Cast-in-Situ – which can be installed at the same time as the rods with concrete then poured on top as part of the concrete slab pour.
We cost our products based upon your project requirements, so you only pay for what you need. But more than that, we will advise you on which product is perfect for your build, so there’s no waste or obstacles in the construction process.
In some projects, multiple thermal break materials can be specified across different connection types depending on the structural and thermal requirement of each junction. Early stage communication and in depth research with a thermal break expert can ensure the most effective solutions are specified for the project.
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