Humans have come a long way in building shelters; from building mud and stone huts for living, we have slowly but steadily graduated to using completely synthetic building material to suit our requirements. In this article, we will explore one such modern age building material called ‘wall panels’ as they are used to create walls that make the building. The one that we will be discussing here is often referred to as the ‘sandwiched panels’ (SP) as they are actually built like a sandwich. These panels have gained significant popularity in the construction industry due to their exceptional performance, energy efficiency, and versatility. Even the ‘sandwiched panels’ come in a variety of compositions, but a very successful one that has stood the test of time is the one that is called as the ‘EPS panels’ for short. These panels combine the strength of structural steel and concrete with insulation of EPS panel inside, creating a multifunctional building material that offers numerous advantages.
Strength and Durability
The structural steel in the EPS panels provides unparalleled strength and durability. The steel frame ensures the building’s stability and can withstand various external forces, such as wind, earthquakes, and heavy loads. This feature contributes to the longevity of structures and reduces maintenance requirements over time.
Energy Efficiency
One of the standout features of sandwiched panels is their outstanding energy efficiency. These panels integrate insulation within the structural steel frame, minimizing thermal bridging and heat transfer. As a result, buildings constructed using technology exhibit improved energy performance, leading to reduced heating and cooling costs.
Improved Indoor Comfort
The insulation in sandwiched panels enhances indoor comfort by regulating temperature and reducing sound transmission. This is particularly advantageous in regions with extreme climates or areas where noise pollution is a concern. The superior insulation properties help create a more pleasant living or working environment.
Fire Resistance:
Concrete clad structural steel has excellent fire-resistant properties, and when combined with the insulation, it creates a material with enhanced fire resistance. This feature can contribute to the safety of occupants and the overall integrity of the structure in the event of a fire.
Rapid Construction
These panels are known for their rapid construction capabilities. Since these panels are prefabricated off-site, they can be quickly assembled on-site, reducing construction timelines significantly. This speed not only saves costs but also allows projects to be completed faster, which can be a crucial factor in commercial and residential construction.
Cost Savings
While the initial cost of these panels might be slightly higher compared to traditional construction materials, the long-term savings in energy costs, reduced maintenance, and faster construction timelines can offset the initial investment. This makes them a cost-effective solution in the broader context of a building’s lifecycle.
Sustainable Construction
As the construction industry places more emphasis on sustainable practices, EPS panels stand out as a greener alternative. Their energy efficiency, reduced waste generation, and potential for reuse make them a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious projects.
Reduced Material Waste
As these readymade walls are prefabricated with precision, resulting in minimal waste, both during manufacturing and on-site assembly. The eco-friendly characteristic aligns with sustainable construction practices and reduces the environmental impact of building projects.
Versatility in Design
Architects and designers get increased freedom in creating unique and innovative structures. The cladding walls can be easily customized to fit various architectural styles and design requirements.
Retrofitting and Renovation
These cladding walls are not limited to new construction only; they can also be used for retrofitting and renovating existing structures. This adaptability makes them a viable option for improving the energy efficiency and overall performance of older buildings.
