What are Composite Insulated Panels?
Composite panels, also known as sandwich panels or white wall, are made up of multiple layers of materials that are bonded together to form a single panel. Typically, the outer layers are metal with an internal core of insulating material.
Composite panels are widely used in the construction of industrial buildings, particularly food factories, due to high levels of thermal insulation, hygienic and durable finishes, and self-supporting structural capability. Composite panels are also particularly suited to the harsh and often moisture laden environment within food production facilities.
Common panel core materials include expanded polystyrene, extruded polystyrene, polyurethane, mineral wool, Phenolic and various types of Polyisocyanurate -PIR. The types and properties of the panel core material have evolved as have their fire properties and reaction to fire. The core may be a block material with the outer skins bonded to it using a layer of adhesive, or the core may be injected as a liquid and bond naturally to the skins as part of expanding and curing.
The most common type of composite panel has a steel sheet outer skin to both sides bonded to the insulating core. Other outer skin materials include aluminium and stainless steel, PVC & GRP facings. The outer metal skins can have various finishes such as those providing a foodsafe surface or for exposure to external weather conditions.
Thousands of UK buildings are clad with or contain composite insulated panels. This is particularly true of food factories, coldstores, and chilled distribution sites. These panels are often referred to as whitewall, sandwich panels or simply insulated panel.
Overall, composite panels are an excellent choice for factory construction due to their high strength, durability, and insulation properties. However, it is important to ensure that they are properly installed and maintained to ensure their long-term performance and safety.
Being able to identify different panel types present on your site is key to managing risk and minimising costs of insurance. Without details of composite panel types and fire performance some insurers will not provide business interruption cover and are quoting buildings cover at rates which are not commercially viable to clients.