What is BS EN ISO 10549:2013?

BS EN ISO 10549:2013 is a technical standard that provides guidelines and specifications for the evaluation of the performance of thermal insulations in buildings. It focuses on determining the thermal conductivity, density, compressive strength, water vapour permeability, and dimensional stability of these insulating materials.

Thermal Conductivity

One of the key parameters evaluated in BS EN ISO 10549:2013 is thermal conductivity, which measures the ability of an insulating material to resist heat flow. The lower the thermal conductivity value, the better the insulating material's ability to reduce heat transfer. Various testing methods are used to determine this property, including the guarded hot plate method and the heat flow meter method.

Density and Compressive Strength

The density and compressive strength of an insulation material play a crucial role in its performance and durability. They indicate how well the material can withstand external loads and maintain its shape over time. BS EN ISO 10549:2013 specifies testing procedures to determine the density and compressive strength of thermal insulations, providing valuable information for selecting suitable materials for specific applications.

Water Vapour Permeability and Dimensional Stability

In addition to thermal properties, BS EN ISO 10549:2013 also addresses the water vapour permeability and dimensional stability of insulating materials. Water vapour permeability refers to the material's ability to allow water vapour to pass through it. A low permeability indicates that the material is resistant to moisture penetration, which is especially important for materials used in damp environments. Dimensional stability evaluates how well the material maintains its shape, size, and integrity under varying conditions of temperature and humidity.