Insultec Heat Transfer Demonstration
The metal pan has been coated with Insultec on the left-hand side, while the right-hand side remains uncoated.
As the demonstration progresses, observe how the ice cube placed on the uncoated side melts much more quickly due to the rapid transfer of heat through the metal surface. In contrast, the ice cube on the Insultec-coated side melts significantly more slowly, demonstrating Insultec's ability to reduce heat transfer.
The effectiveness of the coating can also be seen using the infrared temperature gun, which clearly shows the difference in surface temperatures between the coated and uncoated sections.
This simple demonstration highlights how Insultec helps reduce heat transfer, keeping surfaces cooler and improving thermal performance.
Insultec Heat Protection Demonstration
Watch as a metal panel is heated directly with a blow torch while being held by hand.
The left-hand side of the panel has been coated with Insultec, while the right-hand side remains uncoated.
As heat is applied, note the rapid temperature increase on the uncoated side. In contrast, the Insultec-coated side remains significantly cooler, demonstrating Insultec's ability to reduce heat transfer through the metal surface.
Despite the intense heat being applied, the Insultec-protected side remains cool enough to be safely held with bare hands, highlighting the coating's exceptional thermal barrier and heat re-radiating properties.
Temperature readings clearly demonstrate the difference between the protected and unprotected surfaces.
Insultec Flame Resistance Demonstration
Watch as a blow lamp applies a direct flame to the Insultec-coated surface.
Observe how Insultec self-extinguishes once the flame source is removed, demonstrating its resistance to the spread of flame.
Insultec has been tested to BS 476 Part 7 Class A, one of the highest classifications for surface spread of flame. This performance may help provide valuable additional time for building occupants to evacuate safely in the event of a fire.
While Insultec is not promoted as a fireproof coating, its flame-resistant properties can contribute to improved building safety and reduced flame propagation across coated surfaces.
Thermal Imaging Demonstration
The entire surface shown is tarmac. The area surrounding the telescope, highlighted in purple, has been treated with a single coat of Insultec.
The thermal image clearly demonstrates a significant reduction in surface temperature compared to the surrounding untreated tarmac. This result has been achieved with just one coat of Insultec.
For maximum thermal performance, Insultec is normally applied in two coats, which would be expected to deliver an even greater reduction in heat absorption and surface temperature.
Residential Case Study: Improving Home Energy Efficiency with Insultec
Supporting BASIX and NatHERS Performance Outcomes
Note: Insultec can assist in improving a home's thermal performance and may contribute to achieving higher BASIX and NatHERS ratings when incorporated as part of an overall building energy efficiency strategy. Actual outcomes will depend on the building design, construction materials, orientation, glazing, insulation levels, and climate zone.
Background
A family living in a home built during the 1990s was experiencing increasing energy costs and significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. Located in a region with hot summers and cool winters, the home required substantial heating and cooling to maintain comfortable living conditions.
The homeowners wanted to improve the thermal performance of their property without undertaking major renovations or disruptive building works. After investigating various energy-efficiency solutions, they selected Insultec as a cost-effective and non-invasive option.
The Solution
The family chose to apply Insultec to the roof and external walls of their home.
Unlike conventional paints, Insultec is a thermal re-radiating membrane coating designed to reduce heat transfer through building surfaces. By helping to reduce the amount of solar heat entering the structure, Insultec can improve indoor comfort and reduce reliance on mechanical cooling systems.
Two coats of Insultec were applied to maximise performance and provide a durable protective finish.
Installation
The application process was completed quickly and efficiently with minimal disruption to the household.
After surface preparation, Insultec was applied to the roof and external walls using standard coating techniques. The homeowners selected a colour that complemented the appearance of their home while gaining the thermal benefits of the coating system.
Results
Reduced Energy Consumption
Within the first year, the family observed a noticeable reduction in energy consumption.
During summer, the home remained cooler for longer periods, reducing the need for air conditioning. In winter, internal temperatures were more stable, reducing heating requirements.
The reduction in HVAC usage resulted in lower electricity and energy costs, delivering ongoing savings.
Improved Indoor Comfort
One of the most immediate benefits was a more comfortable living environment.
Rooms that had previously become excessively hot during summer and cold during winter maintained a more consistent temperature throughout the day.
The family also reported improved living conditions due to reduced temperature extremes and a quieter indoor environment.
Potential BASIX and NatHERS Benefits
By improving the thermal performance of the building envelope, Insultec may assist architects, builders, energy assessors and homeowners in achieving improved BASIX and NatHERS outcomes.
Benefits may include:
- Reduced cooling loads during summer.
- Improved thermal comfort.
- Lower energy consumption.
- Reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
- Enhanced overall building energy performance.
As with any BASIX or NatHERS assessment, results will vary according to the specific design and construction of the dwelling.
Environmental Benefits
Reduced energy consumption resulted in a corresponding reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
By lowering the demand for air conditioning and heating, the family reduced their environmental footprint while supporting a more sustainable lifestyle.
The long service life of Insultec further contributes to sustainability by reducing the need for frequent recoating and maintenance.
Agricultural Case Study – Beehive Temperature Management and Livestock Building Protection with Insultec
Keeping Beehives and Agricultural Buildings Cooler in Extreme Australian Conditions
Field investigations were conducted near Hungerford in south-west Queensland, where summer temperatures typically range between 37°C and 46°C, with occasional days exceeding 50°C.
The objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of Insultec in reducing heat stress on beehives and to demonstrate the potential benefits of Insultec for agricultural buildings exposed to extreme environmental conditions.
Results
The findings demonstrated a significant difference between hives coated with Insultec and those coated with conventional products.
Beehives treated with Insultec No. 1 and Insulglaze remained substantially cooler, with internal temperatures reported to be approximately 15°C to 20°C lower during summer conditions. Throughout the trial, the bees had access to an adequate water supply.
When the Insultec-coated hives were opened and inspected, the bees showed little to no signs of heat stress, despite the extreme external temperatures.
In contrast, hives coated with alternative products displayed a high degree of stress during periods when temperatures exceeded 40°C.
A further observation was the condition of the beeswax within the hives. In the Insultec and Insulglaze coated hives, wax on top of the frame bars remained intact with no evidence of melting. However, hives coated with conventional materials showed melted wax and clear indications of heat-related stress.
Benefits for Livestock and Agricultural Buildings
The same thermal performance benefits observed in beehives can be applied to a wide range of agricultural buildings and structures, including:
- Poultry sheds
- Piggeries
- Dairy facilities
- Cattle and feedlot shelters
- Horse stables
- Machinery sheds
- Grain storage facilities
- Seed storage and processing buildings
- Greenhouses and horticultural facilities
By reducing heat transfer through roofs and walls, Insultec can help:
- Lower internal building temperatures.
- Reduce heat stress on livestock.
- Improve animal welfare and productivity.
- Reduce mortality risks during extreme heat events.
- Improve feed conversion rates and production outcomes.
- Reduce reliance on mechanical cooling and ventilation systems.
- Lower energy consumption and operating costs.
- Protect stored seed, grain, feed, and agricultural products from heat damage.
For poultry, dairy, pig, and beef operations, reducing heat stress can contribute to improved growth rates, milk production, fertility, and overall animal performance.
Application Method
The timber hive components were first sanded and treated using a copper and white spirit dip. This preparation process was used on both new and existing hive materials.
Following treatment, the hive components were allowed to dry for approximately one week.
Areas that were difficult to access with a spray gun were pre-coated using a brush before the main application. This ensured complete coverage and improved the efficiency of the spraying process.
The prepared hive material was then spray-coated with Insultec No. 1 and allowed to cure for approximately one week before the application of Insulglaze.
Insulglaze was found to be simple to apply and highly economical, with a small quantity covering a large surface area. Both Insultec and Insulglaze can be applied by spray, brush, or roller depending on operational requirements.
Conclusion
The Hungerford field trials demonstrated that Insultec can provide significant thermal protection for beehives operating in some of Australia's harshest climatic conditions.
By reducing heat transfer and helping maintain cooler hive temperatures, Insultec assists in creating a more stable environment for bee colonies, reducing heat stress and protecting hive components during periods of extreme summer heat.
The same technology offers substantial benefits for agricultural buildings, livestock facilities, and storage structures, helping farmers improve productivity, reduce energy costs, protect valuable assets, and enhance animal welfare.
Insultec provides a practical, Australian-developed solution for agriculture, horticulture, apiculture, and livestock industries operating in hot climates throughout Australia, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and other high-temperature regions.
Insultec protecting electrical equipment
INSULTEC stopped fuse meltdown.
A temperate drop from 65oC - to 46oC.
The extreme heat of north-western Australia caused continual interruptions for Dampier Salt Operations; melting fuses in the control cubicles frequently stopped production and caused costly damage. An application of Insultec was applied to the exterior surface of "Pump Station Zero",
The temperature reduction was dramatic and solved the problem.
When it's hot enough inside to melt an electrical fuse - IT'S HOT!
