Why Should You Consider a Twin-wall Polycarbonate R-value

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The polycarbonate panels play a crucial role in the agricultural market place. This is because they are used to construct garden centers and greenhouses. Their ability to allow abundant light into the interior spaces, light weight and easy to install properties have been the key pillars for their popularity. A hard and durable greenhouse can offer a long-term cost saving. This equipment is not only used to protect the plants; but, it is also used as a state-of-the art equipment.

There quite a number of polycarbonate profiles available in the market; however, when it comes to the insulation value of polycarbonates, a twin-wall polycarbonate sheet is preferred. What is a twin-wall polycarbonate R-value?

The R-value of a twin-wall polycarbonate sheet is the measure of resistance to heat flow between the two walls of the polycarbonate sheets (the two PC walls with an air space in between them). Theoretically, a higher R-value will imply higher thermal resistance. This is one of the numerous factors manufacturers consider during the products life cycle.

When people talk about the twin-wall polycarbonate R-value, they mainly tend to focus on the movement of heat across the polycarbonate layer where heat is transferred through conduction (across the PC wall). The degree of insulation based on R-value does not put much emphasis on air infiltration, convection and radiation yet; heat can be transferred via these mechanisms.

To calculate the twin-wall polycarbonate R-value, you need to consider the following key factors: amount of heat loss, temperature difference, cross-sectional area and time. You can determine this value only if you are in a position to measure these key elements. In most cases, this process is carried out in an industrial setup. It is calculated using the following formula:

Thus, it is quite evident that a change in any of these parameters will ultimately affect the twin-wall polycarbonate sheet R-value. For instance, a 4mm thick twin-wall polycarbonate sheet will have an R-value of about 1.43 while a 10mm thick twin-wall polycarbonate sheet will have an R-value of about 1.9. This can translate to about 15% energy efficiency. Therefore, there are higher chances that the sheet will pay for itself within two years since the cost of energy shall have been reduced.

A multi-wall polycarbonate sheet (say 3 or 4 walls) will save even more energy since they will have a higher R-value. Take for instance an 8mm PC sheet with four walls which has an R-value of about 2.08. You can discuss this with your polycarbonate sheet manufacturer or supplier.

Polycarbonate sheets have greater natural light diffusion and better thermal efficiencies. These have been some of the main reasons why they’re a perfect choice in most greenhouse construction. Ideally, the utility costs directly affect the energy efficiency. That is; for a greenhouse, the amount of energy which is lost across the wall and the roof will ultimately affect the cost of energy. This is a common scenario where you may be required to heat the greenhouse due to the cold weather.

Generally, the insulation capability of a PC sheet plays a significant role in reducing energy consumption and it is a factor worth considering.