Tyhjiöeristeitä

Tyhjiöeristeitä, known in English as vacuum insulation, refers to a technology that utilizes a vacuum to minimize heat transfer. This is achieved by creating a sealed space with extremely low pressure, effectively eliminating conduction and convection as modes of heat transfer. Heat transfer then primarily occurs through radiation, which can be further reduced by using reflective surfaces within the vacuum-sealed panel.

The effectiveness of vacuum insulation stems from the absence of molecules that would otherwise facilitate heat movement. In a typical insulated material like foam or fiberglass, heat can travel through the solid material itself (conduction) and through the air or gas trapped within the material (convection). By removing the air, these two mechanisms are greatly suppressed.

Vacuum insulated panels (VIPs) are a common application of this technology. These panels consist of a core material, often a porous substance like fiberglass or silica powder, enclosed within an airtight envelope. The air is then evacuated from the envelope, creating the vacuum. The outer surfaces of the core material are frequently coated with a reflective material, such as aluminum foil, to further reduce radiative heat transfer.

Due to their superior thermal performance compared to conventional insulation materials, vacuum insulation is often employed in applications where space is limited or where maximum thermal efficiency is critical. Examples include high-performance refrigerators and freezers, specialized construction projects requiring thin but highly insulating materials, and in some portable insulated containers. The primary challenge with vacuum insulation is maintaining the integrity of the vacuum over the lifespan of the product, as leaks can significantly degrade its insulating properties.