To learn why we use Roxul Insulation (Stone Wool Insulation), here is the brief history and benefits/features of stone wool.
Origin & Properties of Stone Wool
Stone wool was discovered on the islands of Hawaii at the beginning of the century. It occurs there naturally as abyproduct of volcanic activity. In its manufactured state, stone wool combines the power of rock with the characteristics of typical insulation wool. In addition, thanks to its non-directional fiber orientation, it also exhibits some unique and valuable characteristics.
Thermal insulation
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Sound Absorption
The non-directional fiber orientation of the stone wool helps the absorption of acoustic waves and can reduce the intensity and propagation of noise.
Fire Resistant
Stone wool can withstand temperatures up to 2150º F (1177º C). Conequently it does not contribute either to the development and spread of fire or the release of toxic gases.
Water Repellent
Stone wool is water repellent yet vapor permeable. This means that the insulation cannot absorb water so the R-value is not affected. Additionally it is completely resistant to rot, mildew, mold and bacterial growth, contributing to a safer indoor environment.
Dimensional stability
Stone wool retains its characteristics unaltered over time. It undergoes only minimal changes in size or performance to the changing conditions of temperature and humidity.
How is Roxul Insulation made?
Production Process:
The production process for stone wool begins with the fusion of volcanic rock at a temperature of 1500° C (2732°F). Volcanic rock, slag and coke are automatically fed from the top of the cupola furnace. The melt runs out of the bottom of the furnace and onto the spinning machine, where the wool is spun. Minor amounts of binder and oil are added, and the wool is collected on a belt conveyor in the spinning chamber. The structure and density of the wool are adjusted before it enters the curing oven. These properties are maintained after the binder has been cured.
The cured wool then proceeds to the cutting saws and packing equipment or is led to off-line equipment for special treatment. The off-gases from the production – furnace, spinning chamber, curing oven – are cleaned in filters and after-burners before they enter the chimney. The waste inevitably created during the production is re-cycled.
A series of environmental equipment (filters, preheaters, afterburner and other systems of purification and collection) are featured in our production process to help make us environmentally responsible.
