lämpöeristyskyvystä

Lämpöeristyskyky, often translated as thermal insulation capacity or thermal resistance, refers to a material's ability to resist the flow of heat. This property is crucial in various applications, particularly in construction, where it helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and reduces energy consumption for heating and cooling. Materials with high thermal insulation capacity are effective at preventing heat transfer through conduction, convection, and radiation.

The SI unit for thermal resistance is typically the kelvin per watt (K/W) or square kelvin per watt (K⋅m²/W) when referring to a specific area. A higher value indicates better insulation. This is often expressed as an R-value. Conversely, thermal conductivity, measured in watts per meter-kelvin (W/(m⋅K)), quantifies how well a material conducts heat. Lower thermal conductivity means better insulation.

Common insulating materials include fiberglass, mineral wool, foam boards, and aerogels. Their effectiveness is influenced by factors such as density, trapped air pockets, and material composition. In buildings, proper insulation in walls, roofs, and floors minimizes heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, leading to significant energy savings and improved occupant comfort. Beyond buildings, thermal insulation is also vital in appliances, piping, and protective clothing.