Thermal insulation

Our thermal laboratory was established in the 1950s as Australia's principle provider of thermal testing services to industry and the community.

Measuring and testing thermal properties

We use heat flow meter (HFM) equipment to measure the heat flow properties of individual material or composite panels over a wide range of sizes. We measure properties including thermal resistance (R-value) and thermal conductivity.

Our HFM apparatus comply with the thermal testing standard outlined by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). This involves measuring the heat flow through a test sample located between two parallel plates held at different temperatures (from 0°C to 60°C). This measurement method meets the Australian and New Zealand standard for materials for thermal insulation of buildings.

Granular, 'loose fill' and settable materials may be measured using holding trays. We have previously measured:

• wheat
• corn
• chocolate
• rice husks
• glass beads
• polystyrene beads
• sands and soils.

Measuring Australian standards for insulation

When used in buildings, cellulose fibre loose-fill insulation is covered under an Australian standard, which we have the capability to measure. We also offer measurement to the Australian and New Zealand standard for packs of building insulation batts and blankets for:

• packs of glass fibre
• polyester
• other insulation materials sold in compressed packaging.