Graphite EPS Sandwich Cement Board Panel Insulated Concrete Forms Stacking Wa...
EPS Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) involve stacking pre-made blocks, followed by concrete pouring to form a sandwich insulation system, also known as the EPS energy-saving modular system. This system is highly mechanized, reducing labor costs and shortening the construction period. Modules are inserted on the exterior of the steel reinforcement via staggered vertical joints and secured with connecting bridges. Galvanized welded metal mesh is installed in prefabricated slots at the ends of the bridges.
Speed Ease Construction EPS BuildBlocks Insulated Concrete Forms ICFs Blocks
EPS Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) offer a modern and efficient construction method by combining energy-saving, insulation, and structural strength in one system. Here’s a summary of the key features and process:
Features of EPS ICF Blocks:
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Thermal Insulation:
- Thermal conductivity: 0.028 w/m.k, equivalent to a 4.6-meter brick wall.
- Energy-saving: Up to 90%, maintaining a stable room temperature of 15-22°C even in winter without heating.
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Structural Strength:
- Compressive strength: Up to 28 MPa, providing 80% of the traditional wall’s strength.
- Stronger than wood-framed structures with better resistance to environmental forces (earthquakes, floods, fires, etc.).
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Fire Resistance:
- ICF walls can achieve up to a 6-hour fire-resistance rating.
- Tested up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, withstanding common house fire temperatures much better than wood or steel.
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Sound Absorption:
- ICF walls reduce sound transmission due to the combination of thick walls, airtightness, and mass.
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Indoor Air Quality:
- ICF construction allows better humidity regulation and minimizes mold growth due to the absence of plastic vapor barriers.
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Environmental Sensitivity:
- Made with recycled materials and reducing construction waste to as little as 1%.
- Uses fewer natural resources and is CFC and chemical-free.
ICF Building Process:
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Ease of Construction:
- Less demanding than traditional wood-frame construction. Lower-skilled labor can be employed for laying ICF forms.
- Minimal additional structural support needed for openings like doors and windows, as ICFs only require reinforcing steel around such openings.
- Concrete is poured into the cavity structure to create a sandwich insulation system, integrating insulation, load-bearing capacity, and fire protection.
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Cost Efficiency:
- ICF construction can be about 40% cheaper than traditional methods due to labor savings.
- Over time, ICF buildings are less expensive because they require less energy for heating and cooling, reducing energy costs significantly.
- Insurance premiums are often lower due to the superior structural integrity and fire resistance of ICF buildings.
Applications:
ICF blocks are used in a variety of building types, including villas, agricultural greenhouses, industrial plants, cold storage facilities, tourist villas, commercial buildings, and temporary or earthquake-relief housing.