ASTM C591

ASTM C591 – Standard Specification for Unfaced Preformed Rigid Cellular Polyisocyanurate Thermal Insulation

Description:

Abstract

This specification covers the types, physical properties, and dimensions of unfaced, preformed rigid cellular polyurethane modified polyisocyanurate plastic material intended for use as thermal insulation on surfaces. This insulation can be classified into six types according to its compressive resistance: Types I, IV, II, III, V, and VI. Also this insulation can be classified as Grades 1 and 2 according to its service temperature range. The thermal insulation is produced by the polymerization of polymeric polyisocyanates in the presence of polyhydroxyl compounds, catalysts, cell stabilizers, and blowing agents. Different test methods shall be performed in order to determine the thermal insulation’s following properties: density, compressive resistance, apparent thermal conductivity, hot-surface performance, water absorption, water vapor permeability, dimensional stability, closed-cell content, surface bearing characteristics, tensile strength, and leachable chloride, fluoride, silicate, and sodium ions.

Scope

1.1 This specification covers the types, physical properties, and dimensions of unfaced, preformed rigid cellular polyisocyanurate plastic material intended for use as thermal insulation on surfaces from –297°F (–183°C) to 300°F (149°C). For specific applications, the actual temperature limits shall be agreed upon by the manufacturer and purchaser.

1.2 This specification only covers “polyurethane modified polyisocyanurate” thermal insulation which is commonly referred to as “polyisocyanurate” thermal insulation. This standard does not encompass all polyurethane modified materials. Polyurethane modified polyisocyanurate and other polyurethane materials are similar, but the materials will perform differently under some service conditions.

1.3 This standard is designed as a material specification, not a design document. Physical property requirements vary by application and temperature. At temperatures below –70°F (–51°C) the physical properties of the polyisocyanurate insulation at the service temperature are of particular importance. Below –70°F (–51°C) the manufacturer and the purchaser must agree on what additional cold temperature performance properties are required to determine if the material can function adequately for the particular application.

1.4 This standard addresses requirements of unfaced preformed rigid cellular polyisocyanurate thermal insulation manufactured using blowing agents with an ozone depletion potential of 0 (ODP 0).

1.5 Except 6.2 and 8.2 – 8.4, which are related to the size and shape of fabricated parts, and 16.1, which is related to the storage of fabricated parts, the requirements in this standard specification apply to the polyisocyanurate insulation in the form of buns supplied by the insulation manufacturer.

1.6 When adopted by an authority having jurisdiction, codes that address fire properties in many applications regulate the use of the thermal insulation materials covered by this specification. Fire properties are controlled by job, project, or other specifications where codes or government regulations do not apply.

1.7 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.