InsulationWhat is it? Insulation is almost the opposite of thermal mass, being low-density material that is resistant to heat transfer. Insulation is measured with R-value, which is a general guideline for how quickly heat moves through a material.
Items with low R-value allow heat to move quickly through them; examples are metals and stone. High R-value materials slow down heat transfer; a down jacket or a wooly blanket both have a high R-value. Insulation can be natural, like straw bale or wool, or can be man-made, like foam or fiberglass.
What are the benefits of insulation? Using insulation allows buildings to have smaller HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) equipment. This means lower upfront costs, lower maintenance costs, and lower operating costs. Insulation helps keeps temperatures constant, which makes indoor environments much more comfortable.
Why else does Exup use it? In high threat environments, smaller equipment can easily be placed indoors, where it is safer from attack. In hostile weather environments, insulating a roof in a hot climate or a north-facing wall in high-latitudes can keep indoor temperatures constant without added mechanical input, which keeps demand on equipment low.
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