Category Archives: Material Selection

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2023 North American Engineering and Construction Outlook—Second Quarter Edition

Summary

Last year FMI altered base case assumptions for our forecasts to include a multiyear recession spanning into 2023. As with historical cycles, impact on the construction industry will be longer-lasting.

Economic factors influencing this forecast include the recent banking challenges impacting expectations on lending standards and ongoing consolidation; shortages of key materials and labor across various industries; ongoing strain on global logistics infrastructure; volatility across real estate; Federal Reserve policy; and continued inflationary pressures. We also considered wartime and economic turmoil in various countries (e.g., Russia, Ukraine, and China) adding to strain and uncertainty on each of these items.

It is important to recognize that FMI anticipates the U.S. economy will fare better than most countries, as reflected by strong demand for labor and the long-term commitment to infrastructure investments. As a result, the engineering and construction industry is expected to play a major role in our economy’s foundational strength over the coming years, offering a combination of both challenges and opportunities.

Key U.S. Takeaways

  • • Total engineering and construc­tion spending for the U.S. is forecast to end 2023 down 1%, compared to up 11% in 2022.
  • Steep declines in single-family residential and residential improvements will lead a contraction in overall industry spending while most nonresidential building and nonbuilding structure segments are expected to experience growth through 2023.
  • Strong investment growth is expected across lodging, commercial, transportation, manufacturing, highway and street, water supply, and conservation and development, each with year-over-year growth rates nearing or exceeding 10%. Additionally, above-average investment growth is anticipated across office, health care, amusement and recreation, and sewage and waste disposal.
  • Corrections in residential construction spending are anticipated into 2026, due to softening economic conditions tied to rate hikes and a recession. Consistent with historical industry cycles, similar corrections are expected to bleed over into nonresidential segments beginning late 2023 and into 2024.
  • The latest Nonresidential Construction Index (NRCI) reflects the fourth straight quarter of ongoing challenges, with a reading of 48.0, up slightly from 46.4 in the quarter prior.

Sentiment this quarter was slightly improved based on increased optimism toward the overall U.S. economy and local factors impacting the economy and nonresidential industry where participants are operating their businesses. However, the index remains below the growth threshold of 50 and reflects declining engineering and construction

Conclusion

For details on this forecast, visit www.fmicorp.com. FMI is a leading consulting and investment banking firm dedicated to serving companies working within the built environment. Our professionals are industry insiders who understand your operating environment, challenges, and opportunities. FMI’s sector expertise and broad range of solutions help our clients discover value drivers, build resilient teams, streamline operations, grow with confidence, and sell with optimal results.

NIA Sites > Insulation Outlook Magazine > Global > Material Selection

How Green Building Policy Could Evolve

For much of its recent history in mitigating climate change, Denver has concentrated on buildings’ operational energy—the energy needed to run basics like heating, air conditioning, lighting, and hot water. That will shift in May, when Denver’s newly adopted green code takes effect, said Christy Collins, Green Communities Specialist with the local government. The code will also consider the greenhouse gas emissions created during construction of a building and the manufacturing of its materials, setting limits for carbon dioxide equivalent in the manufacturing of concrete and steel for commercial and multifamily developments.

“Embodied carbon is sometimes much more than half of the carbon impact of a given building, as opposed to operational energy,” Collins said. Commercial projects in Denver must choose about 10% of the green code to follow to comply with local law. Along with provisions on water use and residential energy are the embodied carbon amendments on concrete and steel.

Across the United States, local and state action around embodied carbon, electrification of buildings, and other decarbonization efforts is likely to grow in 2023, experts say.

“More folks are realizing both the carbon emissions impact of their buildings and appliances,” said Denise Grab, Principal on nonprofit RMI’s carbon-free building team.
“I expect we’ll see many more cities, counties, [and states] over the next year really moving toward electrification, low embodied- carbon buildings, and other forward-looking policies.”

It is important to look at how states will use clean energy funding from the Inflation Reduction Act to advance building decarbonization measures, said Frankie Downy, London-based Technical Lead for Energy and Buildings at C40 Cities, a global network of mayors united for climate action.

Downy said U.S. cities have been passing performance standards that put a cap on building emissions or energy use. The Inflation Reduction Act should instill further confidence that cities can pass policies in this vein, she said. The law’s provisions include $1 billion in grant money to help states adopt new residential and commercial building energy codes.

Some local governments have already focused on embodied carbon policies. Portland, Oregon’s low-carbon concrete ordinance recently took effect, and New York City’s mayor announced a clean construction executive order last fall addressing procurement of cement, steel, and machinery. Looking at machinery is a novel move in the United States, said Cécile Faraud, London-based Technical Lead for Clean Construction at C40, and she expects cities and states will pass more such provisions.

Governments should concentrate more on existing buildings than on new construction, Faraud said. “When cities are prioritizing their existing stock and working more on retrofits, they remove the need for virgin materials in the first place. So it’s the best way to reduce embodied carbon.”

Yet new construction tends to be an attractive starting point because it can often be simpler to build something new rather than retrofit, Grab said.

“Most of the codes so far have focused on new construction,” she said. “But I do expect over the next year we’ll see more focus on policies like building performance standards, like existing building codes that are starting to look more at existing buildings.”

Another trend is policies designed for a more circular economy, namely salvaging materials and deconstructing buildings to recover materials rather than demolishing them. Portland, Oregon and Austin, Texas are some of the cities leading in this area, Faraud said.

In the United States, embodied carbon policy usually emphasizes cement, concrete, and steel, Faraud said. Denver began its own efforts with concrete and steel because their production processes emit large amounts of carbon relative to other building materials. Steel production, for example, is responsible for 6.6% of human-made greenhouse gas  emissions globally.

“As we talk about how to develop responsibly, we need density,” Collins said. “But with density comes high-rises. With high-rises come concrete and steel. Concrete and steel are both very impactful materials from an embodied carbon standpoint, so it just makes sense to start talking about them.”

Faraud said there is an opportunity for the United States to use more timber for construction. In addition to timber, Grab said she expects more construction projects to use materials such as straw, hemp, and carbon-sequestering concrete.

In Denver, the city and county will spend the next few years receiving feedback from developers on different provisions in the green code, including those related to embodied carbon, Collins said. The plan is to eventually make policies like this required rather than optional.

“We are bringing these topics forward through the Denver green code to give the development community an opportunity to see that these unfamiliar things are priorities in the Denver community,” she said. “We want to be able to move requirements into mandatory regulations as quickly as we can without causing duress.”

Editor’s Note: For more information on how insulation can help reduce a building’s embodied carbon, visit www.insulation.org/carbon

Adina Solomon is a freelance writer for Construction Dive. This article was first published on Smart Cities Dive on www.constructiondive.com. This article was reprinted with permission from Construction Dive, Copyright 2023. This article was first published on Smart Cities Dive on www.constructiondive.com/news/building-decarbonization-policy-embodied-carbon-green-materials/641364. You can learn more by visiting www.constructiondive.com.

NIA Sites > Insulation Outlook Magazine > Global > Material Selection

An Edge over the Competition: Selecting the Right Insulation Machine for Your Project

Since its discovery and subsequent use in the construction industry in the 1930s, insulation has been a game-changing technology that has altered how we build and live in man made structures. Successful in preventing heat gain and loss through a building envelope, a well-insulated building can significantly reduce its energy consumption through keeping interiors warm in winter and cool in summer. In fact, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that 15% of heating and cooling costs can be saved by insulation.1 Rising energy costs and extreme weather patterns are driving an even greater need for reliable thermal insulators in commercial and industrial buildings, which require more innovative insulation products that save energy and provide comfort for occupants.

But achieving quality insulation is not just about the material—it is also reliant on the application process. Leading manufacturers must think beyond the product and address how insulation blowing machinery can make a major difference in setting themselves apart from competitors. Project scale, time constraints, and budget are important factors to take into account, and with such a diverse range of applications and markets to serve, every business needs to use the right equipment for their operations. Striking a balance between cost, performance, and job compatibility so that your business can produce the best results will ensure the success of a project, as well as promote brand loyalty. Here is what to consider when buying professional-grade insulation equipment.

Convenience and Automation

Keeping up to date on new technologies is a must—whether you are a seasoned contractor or new to the business—as there are many varieties of automated features that contractors should be familiar with in order to stay ahead of the curve. CertainTeed’s line of professional-grade insulation equipment, for example, focuses on core features, such as ensuring the correct set points in engine RPM, air pressure, and material ratios through updated components and overall improvements. These machines must be able to reliably condition any type of fiber glass, mineral wool, or cellulose insulation with accuracy and efficiency, as well as provide replacement parts that ensure proper and reliable long-term performance.

Automations such as wireless remote control systems can save experienced contractors time and are additionally useful for new contractors, helping to prevent common errors that can reduce the quality of the insulation. In addition, safety features such as emergency stops, electrical interlocks that prevent machine operation if safety interlocks are not in place, and chain and sprocket guards that eliminate direct access to pinch points are of value.

Mobility and Size

Your project will always determine the size and mobility requirements of your machine. Urban projects with smaller footprints will require smaller, more compact units; whereas larger commercial job sites will need a larger, high-performance solution that is up for the task. Thankfully, insulation machines come in a wide range of sizes and portability options so they can be arranged in the most ergonomic setup to boost efficiency and speed. Project requirements, such as a power generator for off-grid job sites, are also important to consider, though some manufacturers offer electrical versions for in-plant applications.

Lifetime Value vs. Cost

When considering cost, it is pivotal to think of pricing in terms of the equipment’s remaining lifetime value. Even the best equipment has its limitations when used regularly; but overall, good quality insulation machinery can last between 20 and 25 years with regular maintenance. These machines are a long-term investment, and most seasoned professionals know that high-quality machinery can last well beyond its expected lifetime if partnered with a credible manufacturer.

Looking Ahead

As the need for insulation installation grows alongside the industry’s labor shortages, it is now more important than ever to make sure you are partnering with the right insulation machine building company that can help you save time, cost, and a lot of headaches on site.

References
1. https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/seal_insulate/methodology

 

NIA Sites > Insulation Outlook Magazine > Global > Material Selection

Owens Corning

Owens Corning
www.owenscorning.com/industrial

Owens Corning, a manufacturer of technical insulation products and systems, offers a wide variety of solutions for commercial, mechanical, and industrial applications. Product and application support is provided to customers to help ensure that the finished installation delivers the performance required by a given application. Owens Corning’s Technical Services team provides this support with a variety of services and capabilities.

Owens Corning routinely works with customers to determine what the needs and requirements are for each application for the product or system used. One must understand the application, the regulatory requirements, product fitness for use, and the expected insulation benefit. This typically requires analysis of energy savings, CO2 reductions, acoustic performance, and moisture control. Some materials also provide additional benefits in the form of passive fire protection, corrosion mitigation, or compressive strength.

As part of our vision to be the trusted partner to our customers, leveraging our core  technical expertise to win new applications, build unique insulation systems and lead the profitable sustainable future for our customers, Owens Corning offers a breadth of solutions to meet customers’ existing and emerging needs. Owens Corning’s Technical Services portfolio includes, but is not limited to, the following:

  • Product selection–Guidance for thermal and acoustic performance, moisture resistance, and fire resistance.
  • Energy analysis–Thermal calculations to determine the required thickness for a given situation, such as condensation control, process control, or safe-to-touch insulation surface temperatures.
  • Modeling–Acoustic and passive fire resistance applications.
  • Specification support–Generation of guide specifications and detail drawings for specific applications, as well as review of customer specifications.
  • Product compliance–Guidance related to energy and mechanical codes, industry standards, and government purchase specifications.
  • Sustainability–Guidance and documentation related to LEED, Environmental Product Declarations (EPD), Health Product Declarations (HPD), recycled content, and GreenGuard certification on selected products.
  • Health and safety–Guidance and documentation on safety data sheets (SDS) and safe use instructions sheets.
  • Education and training–Resources for proper installation of the products and systems for designed performance. Includes theoretical classroom and hands-on sessions, and may be available as virtual or in-person instruction.
  • Site start-up support–Resources for safe and efficient job site start-up.
  • Product and system testing–Support to help customers meet project requirements.

In addition to these services, the Owens Corning Granville Science and Technology Center features NVLAP-accredited lab capabilities to test products for compliance as well as application and product development. These labs have also been used to assist Owens Corning’s customers in developing their own products to achieve their performance goals.

These capabilities, coupled with the experience and expertise of the Technical Services team, provide a great deal of value in terms of creating a reliable product and the ability to help customers solve their problems. To learn more about Owens Corning’s technical services and training, or to request technical expertise on an existing project, please contact us at www.owenscorning.com/contact-us.

NIA Sites > Insulation Outlook Magazine > Global > Material Selection

Nutec

Nutec
www.nutec.com

Founded in 1975, Nutec is a fully integrated and trusted supplier of insulation products for fire protection and thermal management applications across a wide variety of industries. Nutec is headquartered in Monterrey, Mexico, with four manufacturing facilities nearby and additional manufacturing locations around the world: Charlotte, North Carolina and Houston, Texas in the United States; as well as in Spain and Brazil. Globally, Nutec has direct sales and/or distribution representation in over 50 countries. More than just a material supplier, Nutec is a fire protection and thermal management solution provider. For Nutec customers in each of these respective segments, a variety of product features and incremental services are offered at no additional charge.

Fire Protection

Nutec Protective Concepts (NPC) focuses on passive fire protection, industrial insulation, and electric heat tracing. NPC is a manufacturer of custom-produced, jacketed, high-temperature insulation systems that carry several fire protection certifications:

  • Jet fire up to 2 hours,
  • UL-1709 up to 2 hours,
  • Over pressure blast up to 1.4 bar, and
  • Approvals from Lloyds, DNV, and ABS.

These approvals and test documentation are provided free of charge with the
purchase of NPC products.

Other free services NPC offers to its customers are:

  • Thermal analysis for fire scenarios,
  • 3D design and modeling,
  • Equipment surveying,
  • Installation supervision,
  • Heat loss analysis, and
  • Acoustic testing.

NPC’s experienced engineering team is available for site visits to ensure that the best recommendation and product fit is provided for each application.

Nutec’s insulating blankets are available in a wide variety of temperature ratings, chemistries, densities, and thicknesses. To service the fire protection and industrial markets, Nutec will provide documentation/certifications to the following standards at no additional charge:

  • ASTM E84–Surface Burning Characteristics,
  • ASTM E136–Combustibility of Materials,
  • ASTM C518–Thermal Transmission with Cycling,
  • ASTM C411–Hot Surface Performance of High Temperature Insulation, and
  • ASTM C892–Specification for High Temperature Fiber Blanket.

Thermal Management

Nutec is an active supplier to the industrial thermal management market, servicing industries such as ceramic and glass, ferrous, non-ferrous, power generation, and chemical processing. Available product forms for these markets are modules, blankets, boards, and custom-formed shapes. Nutec has an experienced Application Engineering Department, which is available to provide technical support and recommendations. The Application Engineering Group will review each application and design a lining system that best meets all considerations. System designs provided by the Application Engineering Department at no additional cost are:

  • Heat flow/thermal calculations,
  • Design recommendations and bill of materials generation,
  • Detailed installation drawings, and
  • Installation field supervision.

Summary

Nutec is approaching 50 years of successfully servicing industry to meet their fire protection and thermal management demands. Much more than just a material supplier, Nutec offers many value-added items and services at no incremental costs to our customers. Please contact Nutec for your next fire protection or thermal management project. We look forward to being your insulation partner and helping provide solutions.

NIA Sites > Insulation Outlook Magazine > Global > Material Selection

Midwest Fasteners

Midwest Fasteners
www.midwestfasteners.com

Midwest Fasteners (Midwest), an industry leader in insulation fastening, offers many free services and resources to help users with insulation projects and products. Our website, www.midwestfasteners.com, offers a wide range of reference, training, and product information—available at no charge and online at all times.

In the Brochure shelves of the Literature Library, the basic Guide to Insulation Fastening, is available for download and printing. It covers all general types and applications of insulation fastening—from glue-on pins to self-stick, lacing anchor applications, and even pin-welding.

In the Videos section of our website, www.midwestfasteners.com, we have more detailed instruction on pin-welding and weld pin applications. There is a full set of how-to videos for pin-welding applications. These short-form, step-through demonstration videos range from setup to install and testing of various insulation welded fasteners. On welded fastener products, the videos cover everything from pin-welders to weld nails and cuphead weld pin insulation fasteners. Midwest also teamed up with NIA to create a 16-minute Guide to Insulation Fastening video that is available at www.niaeducationcenter.org/courses/47925#.

Found in the Equipment Manual section of the Literature Library are the complete range of equipment manuals for Midwest Fasteners’ branded equipment. SureShot, Talon, Eagle, and the full product array of Midwest pin and stud welders can be viewed or retrieved for online reference. Each manual features a step-by-step setup guide for using pin-welders with various fasteners, along with support graphics for all types of installation users. Parts lists, illustrations, electrical schematics, and troubleshooting guides complete each manual and assist pin-welding jobs and applications to the full degree.

Midwest is proud to continue to participate in apprenticeship training programs nationwide, as well as contractor and shop education classes throughout our markets. With scheduling through our Sales group, Midwest personnel can provide in-person, hands-on presentation of our full range of products, with special focus on pin-welding and the safety, use, and maintenance of pin-welding equipment.

At our plant in Ohio, home of manufacturing operations for our line of Midwest welding equipment, we provide equipment evaluation and repair to all kinds and brands of pin-welding equipment and components. While repairs are chargeable upon approval, we can often evaluate and recommend proper plans for older pin-welders, pin-guns, and fastener application equipment with free estimates. On-call technical assistance—by telephone (800-852-8352) or email (sales@midwestfasteners.com)—is handled by our Repair and Assembly staff in our in-house Tech Service Department, also at no charge.

Our Sales personnel, including our Inside Sales/Customer Service staff, is available by phone or email to recommend products, evaluate applications, troubleshoot insulation fastening problems, and provide a full range of assistance surrounding our manufactured products and those like them. Manufacturing since 1987, with an outstanding level of staff experience, Midwest can consult on projects from design to installation.

Finally, the complete Midwest Fasteners Catalog (available for download at midwestfasteners.com or in hard copy) features the Midwest Fasteners complete manufactured line part detail and specifications for sales, take-off, and submission needs. Each product page is available for download, print, or email use—all in user-friendly, easy-to-understand formats—at no charge to users.

 

NIA Sites > Insulation Outlook Magazine > Global > Material Selection

Johns Manville

Johns Manville
www.jm.com

Assisting customers with professional development is a top priority for Johns Manville (JM). We offer a wide variety of free resources and services to help with everything from technical specification support to continuing education opportunities.

One of the best places to start is JM’s The Source, found on JM.com. This free, innovative, online tool allows customers to stay up to date with the latest information in the industry.

The Source includes:

  • Frequently updated blogs, covering the latest industry trends and insights;
  • Educational webinars about a wide variety of industry topics;
  • Online training modules through Insulation Intel® University, focused on product application and installation;
  • Tools designed to make specifying insulation easier than ever; and
  • Instant access to all JM products and solutions, plus relevant information including product selection guides, data sheets, videos, installation instructions,
    and more.

We regularly update The Source with new content. Rather than just putting simple data sheets and technical information on our website, The Source is all-encompassing for industry info as well as JM specifics—perfect for contractors, distributors, facility owners, and engineers.

JM knows that specifying insulation is a big job, which is why we are glad to lend a hand. There are so many material options available, but through our technical specification support program, we help customers understand the strengths and limitations of the different options. We assist in tailoring their specifications to the requirements of each project.

The breadth of our product offerings sets JM apart. Because JM often has multiple products that can be considered for most applications, we can be very candid about not only the strengths of each product, but also their limitations. This allows us to offer our best product for every application. We have a full suite of hot, cold, and acoustic insulation products, as well as metal and PVC jacketing and accessories.

Another way that JM helps its customers is by actively listening and interacting. We have created customer-centric programming in the form of Product Information Workshops (PIWs), Engineering Advisory Councils (EACs) and Contractor Advisory Councils (CACs). These small-format opportunities allow JM to hear from customers, engineers, and contractors so we can learn more about what is desired, what challenges are being faced, and how JM can help. We take this feedback and act on it, developing new, innovative solutions that help push the industry forward.

NIA Sites > Insulation Outlook Magazine > Global > Material Selection

Aspen Aerogels

Aspen Aerogels
www.aerogel.com

Aspen Aerogels® has established a reputation for solving some of thermal insulation’s toughest challenges. With more than 20 years of providing superior thermal performance and defense against corrosion under insulation (CUI), our Pyrogel® and Cryogel® flexible blanket insulation shows how the right insulation can optimize process performance
and enhance asset integrity.

To best support our customers, we have assembled a team of engineers and installation professionals to provide complementary assistance at every stage of your project, from design to construction and active operations. Our Technical Services team combines a thorough knowledge of our aerogel insulation with years of hands-on experience in the field. They are available to work with you by phone, email, or on site at your facility to diagnose and resolve your challenges.

Diagnostic Insulation Audit

No matter where you are located, our Technical Services team can visit your facility to understand and address your challenges. In addition to performing a visual inspection during a unit walk-through, we can also assess system performance through direct measurement or thermographic analysis, if appropriate, to identify any failure points in your insulation system.

Specification Support

Writing specifications can be tedious, so we developed specification guidelines that contain detailed drawings and instructions for using and installing our aerogel insulation products. This includes support for all types of facilities, from simple to complex geometry, as well as guidance on accessories and metal jacketing. If you prefer editorial help, we will mark up or create the content in your existing documents. Let us help you get your project’s specifications finalized in a timely manner.

Customized Thickness Tables

There is truly no one-size-fits-all solution to insulation. That is why we do not provide generic thickness tables. If you are interested in using Pyrogel or Cryogel for your upcoming project, contact Aspen Aerogels Technical Services. We will work with you to create custom thickness tables for your application.

Passive Fire Protection and API 521/NFPA Guidance

Our Technical Services team can help you meet your safety and compliance goals by providing guidance on how to use our products to meet Pool Fire, Jet Fire, API 521, and NFPA requirements. From reviewing custom thickness tables to running simulations, our team can help you protect your assets and personnel.

Contractor Training

With more than 50 years of combined installation experience, our team of insulation trainers will travel wherever you need them to get your installation team up and running fast. We have developed short, 2-hour training sessions that cover best practices for installing Pyrogel and Cryogel aerogel insulation, hands-on exercises, and a rigorous Q&A session. Virtual training courses are also available by request.

Technical Services Resource Library

Aspen Aerogels’ resource library covers years of testing and research distilled into easy-to-use technical tools and guides. For assistance with your application, browse through our resource library for our product and safety data sheets, technical tools, and product install manuals. Or, contact our Technical Services team at aerogel.com/technical-services for answers to any additional questions you may have.

Global Technical Services

Aspen Aerogels Technical Services team is ready to help support your projects. Based in key locations around the globe, we are committed to supporting the needs of your facility.

NIA Sites > Insulation Outlook Magazine > Global > Material Selection

Armacell

Armacell
www.armacell.us

From Innovator to Educator

As the inventor of flexible foam for equipment insulation, Armacell develops innovative and safe thermal, acoustic, and mechanical solutions that create sustainable value for our customers. Armacell’s product portfolio continues to offer new solutions that conserve resources, reduce energy usage, and contribute to environmental protection. Armacell’s technical expertise can provide support, help elevate your skills, and make your next project easier. For decades, we have worked with companies providing resource tools, expert advice, and training support. We provide owners, specifiers, installers, fabricators, distributors, and anyone interested in insulation with the information and guidance they need to drive a successful project.

Simplify the Specification Process

Armacell can help with specifications development, and our technical experts can assist with thermal and acoustical calculations. Our team provides insight into the basics of insulation and its benefits, what to look for when specifying, proper installation methods, and how code compliance fits into a sustainable building model. We are happy to answer any questions to ensure that you have the most up-to-date specification for your next project. If you need help writing your specs, or need answers to technical questions about applications where our insulation should be used, our team is here to help.

AQIP Training

Armacell understands that proper installation is critical to the performance of an insulation system. That is why we developed the Armacell Qualified Installer Program (AQIP) to provide free, expert, real-world instruction in the installation of closed-cell foam. The training program provides a combination of online and hands-on installer training tailored to your project’s requirements. Have your company AQIP-certified to ensure system performance and experience fewer callbacks. Learn more about AQIP on our website at www.armacell.us/resources/insulation-installer/aqip-program.

Armacell Academy E-Learning

Armacell’s free e-learning platform offers courses with product tutorials, technical information, safety practices, and valuable application training. It is mobile-friendly and can be accessed 24/7. Examples of training courses include an Introduction to Armacell, Solutions Portfolios: General Overview and Insights, Armacell product overviews, Mechanical Insulation: The Basics of How and Why, and the Armacell Qualified Installer training course, just to name a few. Interested? Visit the Armacell Academy website at go.bluevolt.com/armacellacademy.

Lunch & Learns

Armacell offers informative, free Lunch & Learn events for engineering firms, with interactive presentations that are eligible for PDH credits. Our Advanced Insulation team offers on-site or virtual presentations reviewing insulation product basics and current solutions, followed by a Q&A session on topics that impact our customers’ industries. We offer this service for as few or as many attendees as you like. To schedule one, visit the Engineer section on our website, at www.armacell.us/contact/schedule-a-presentation.

Online Materials and Blog

Our website, www.armacell.us, offers many resources. Simply click “Resources” or “Solutions Center” to go to our hub for downloadable documents. These online tools show you helpful videos, white papers, technical bulletins, data sheets, case studies,
and more. Our blog provides a variety of product information, industry insights, trends, and tips to give you the knowledge you need to be successful.

A Range of Support

Whether you are designing a system, managing a new installation, have questions, or are trying to source insulation, we are here to support you. When you have questions, Armacell answers. Ready to get started? Visit www.armacell.us and send us a message!

NIA Sites > Insulation Outlook Magazine > Global > Material Selection

Aeroflex USA

Aeroflex USA
www.aeroflexusa.com

Aeroflex USA manufactures the AEROFLEX® brand of Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) closed-cell elastomeric insulation in Sweetwater, Tennessee.

Offering product and technical support to facility owners and consulting engineers is not optional. Aeroflex USA delivers the following technical services and support at no cost (and with no virtual assistants).

  • Professional technical support by phone, email, or virtual meeting
  • Specification writing and review
  • Insulation thickness calculations
  • Custom product submittals
  • Educational and informative lunch and learns
  • Key industry compliance support (ASHRAE 90.1, IECC®, Buy American, LEED®, EPDs, HPDs, low-VOC)
  • Comprehensive installation guides
  • Technical bulletins

For prompt technical support, please contact Mark Sylvester, LEED AP BD+C Certified Insulation Energy Appraiser™, at 866-237-6235 (option 3) or aeroflexusa.com/contact-us (response within 24 hours).