ASTM C578

ASTM C578 – Standard Specification for Rigid, Cellular Polystyrene Thermal Insulation

Description:

Abstract

This specification covers the standards for the types, physical properties and dimensions of cellular polystyrene boards with or without facings or coatings made by molding (EPS) or extrusion (XPS) of expandable polystyrene proposed for use as thermal insulation. This specification, however, does not cover laminated products manufactured with any type of rigid board facer including fiberboard, perlite board, gypsum board, or oriented strand board. All thermal insulation shall be of uniform density and shall contain sufficient flame retardants to meet the oxygen index of requirements. They shall also meet the physical requirements such as thermal resistance, compressive resistance, flexural strength, water vapor permeance, water absorption, dimensional stability, and oxygen index specified herein.

Scope

1.1 This specification2 covers the types, physical properties, and dimensions of cellular polystyrene boards with or without facings or coatings made by molding (EPS) or extrusion (XPS) of expandable polystyrene. Products manufactured to this specification are intended for use as thermal insulation for temperatures from –65 to +165°F (–53.9 to +73.9°C). This specification does not apply to laminated products manufactured with any type of rigid board facer including fiberboard, perlite board, gypsum board, or oriented strand board.

1.1.1 Additional requirements for Types IV and XIII for pipe, tank, and equipment thermal insulation for temperatures from –320 to +165°F (–196 to +73.9°C) are contained in Annex A1.

1.2 The use of thermal insulation materials covered by this specification is potentially regulated by codes that address fire performance. For some end uses, specifiers need to also address the effect of moisture and wind pressure resistance. Guidelines regarding these end use considerations are included in Appendix X1.

1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.