dualwall

Dualwall is a term used to describe a structure or component consisting of two parallel walls that enclose a space, material, or air gap. The two walls may be directly connected or linked by spacers or supports, forming a double-wall configuration that enhances rigidity, containment, insulation, or protection against the environment. The exact construction and materials vary by application, but the guiding idea is the presence of two walls instead of a single shell.

In piping and drainage, dual-wall pipes typically feature an inner bore and an outer wall that provides additional stiffness and impact resistance. Some designs have a corrugated outer wall and a smooth inner bore, with the space between possibly filled with foam or left as an air gap. This configuration can improve load-bearing capacity, crush resistance, and leak containment, making dual-wall pipes common in underground installations.

In thermal and beverage applications, dual-wall or double-wall vessels use an inner container separated from an outer shell by a vacuum or insulating layer. This arrangement minimizes heat transfer, helping to keep liquids hot or cold for longer periods. Vacuum-insulated flasks and bottles are common examples.

In architectural and building materials, double-wall or dual-wall panels place insulation between two outer skins. The resulting sandwich structure enhances thermal and acoustic performance and can accommodate various exterior finishes while maintaining structural integrity.

Manufacturing approaches include co-extrusion, lamination, or bonding of two material layers with a spacer to preserve the gap. Potential drawbacks of dual-wall systems include higher material cost, increased weight, and the need for proper sealing and maintenance to prevent moisture or thermal bridging.

See also: double-wall construction, vacuum insulation, corrugated pipe, sandwich panel.