Westemp® Insulating Panels
Westemp insulation is a non-asbestos, incombustible material manufactured in panel form. Designed specifically for fire department burn room service, the 4' x 4' x 1" thick sheets combine structural strength with high thermal insulating values. Westemp is not subject to thermal shock and offers exceptionally low moisture absorption, providing protection to a continuous burn of 1200°F.
In addition to Fire Facilities’ steel training towers, Westemp can also be used in other buildings including steel, concrete, and masonry. This allows fire departments to extend the useful life of existing training facilities.
Properties
Westemp is formed from Tobermite Calcium Silicate with inert fillers and reinforcing agents. It does not contain asbestos, will not combust or produce smoke, is not affected by thermal shock or by hose stream pressure, gives off non-toxic fumes, and withstands a constant temperature of 1200°F. In addition, the panels are highly damage-resistant, non-corrosive and can be easily installed.
Reactions
Under burn room conditions, Westemp panels will be affected by the
heat and will react in ways that may be visible. In the range of
300 to 400 degrees, the panel will warp slightly toward the hot
face. This causes stretching of the surface to a greater degree
than the core. The result is likely to be seen as “spider
web” cracks usually following a fastener line. This does not
reduce the insulating values of the panel; and once formed, will
not increase in size or number.
To avoid severe cracking, be sure to follow the installation instructions
carefully. When a panel warps, there is a slight amount of movement.
Our instructions outline how to attach the panels appropriately
to avoid further cracking.
Another cause of cracked panels is burning at too high a temperature.
We recommend never exceeding burning temperatures beyond 1200°F
to ensure a safe and successful exercise.
Moisture Absorption
Westemp panels absorb extremely little moisture. Samples from each
production lot are totally submerged in water for 24 hours. At the
end of this time, the normal increase in weight due to absorption
is 4.75 to 5.5%. Panels will return to the dry weight after approximately
four hours of air-drying. There is a limit to this reaction. Burn
room roofs should be checked for leaks to prevent the presence of
continued standing water on the panels. Unburned fuel should not
be allowed to rest against wall panels and should be moved to the
center of the room.
Thermal Shock
Westemp panels will not be damaged by sudden changes in temperature.
Hot panels may be subjected to the application of cold hose streams.
This will not cause any harm to the burn panel. It is not necessary
to cool hot panels with hose streams, simply allow them to cool
naturally.
Installation
Westemp Insulating Panels are easy to install in new or existing
burn rooms. The panels are attached to the walls and ceiling of
the burn room to protect the structure from damage due to heat generated
during live fire exercises. All exposed surfaces must be covered
with Westemp and each panel joint must be backed with Westemp battens
to prevent the passage of heat though the joints. In addition to
installing panels in the burn room, two panels must be attached
to the ceiling immediately outside the interior burn room door.
Westemp is easily cut-trimmed with an electric or hand saw. Cutting
may be dusty and the use of a dust mask is recommended.
Click here for a complete guide to installing Westemp Insulating
Panels in FFI
towers and concrete
buildings.
