PIR Sandwich Panel Selection & Installation Guide

1. How does PIR compare to PUR and EPS insulation?

PIR, PUR (polyurethane), and EPS (expanded polystyrene) are the three foam cores still widely used. PIR has largely replaced PUR in cold storage and food-grade construction because it chars rather than melts under flame, and its k-value drifts less over time. EPS is cheaper but has significantly worse insulation performance per millimeter and does not meet fire requirements for most commercial projects.

2. What panel thickness do you need for your temperature range?

Panel thickness should be matched to the internal operating temperature and the local climate. The table below shows typical recommendations for cold storage and climate-controlled buildings:

3. Which surface steel is right for your environment?

For most cold storage and industrial applications, 0.5mm PPGI (pre-painted galvanized steel) is the standard choice. For coastal or high-humidity environments, Galvalume (AZ150) or stainless steel 304 provides better corrosion resistance. PVDF coating is recommended for exterior walls exposed to direct sunlight, while PE coating is sufficient for interior partitions. Food-processing facilities in direct product contact zones should specify stainless steel 304 or 316 with FDA-compliant paint.

4. How do tongue-and-groove and cam-lock joints work?

5. Where are PIR sandwich panels commonly used?

6. What should you check during cold room panel installation?

Joint quality is the single biggest factor separating catalog performance from real-world performance. Three things to verify: panels must be fully seated at tongue-and-groove joints with no gaps; all joints require continuous silicone sealant or PU foam on both sides for freezer applications; and vapor barriers must be continuous on the warm side to prevent condensation inside the panel core. Floor joints should extend below floor level for sub-zero rooms to prevent air leakage at the base.