Professional Documents
Culture Documents
IN THE BCA2009
FOR
ABCB
June 2009
Revision 3/6/2009
1. AIM
To
This work has been initiated by some changes introduced in Amdt 1 (Dec 2006) of AS/NZS 4859.1:2002
Materials for the thermal insulation of buildings - Part 1: General criteria and technical provisions.
The client for this work is Australian Building Codes Board, GPO Box 9839, Canberra ACT 2601, Phone: 02 6213
7291, Fax: 02 6290 8545, the contact being John Kennedy, email: John.Kennedy@abcb.gov.au.
2. REFERENCED DOCUMENTS
a) AS/NZS 4859.1:2002/Amdt 1 (Dec 2006) “Materials for the thermal insulation of buildings. Part 1: General
criteria and technical provisions”,
b) the Australian Institute of Refrigeration Air-conditioning & Heating (AIRAH) 2007 Handbook, and the ASHRAE
Fundamentals Handbook.
Thermal resistance results reported are for the insulation path only unless otherwise stated. (See clause on
Thermal Bridging. The BCA separately addresses thermal bridging at frames for specific constructions.)
R-values for parallel-faced air cavities were calculated using the Reflect-3 computer software that is based on
Robinson and Powell data and validated by Oakridge National Laboratory, USA. These calculations take input
from (and are affected by)
♦ ventilation.
JAMES M FRICKER PTY LTD i150a ABCB
* Many have considered the revised dust assumptions of Amendment 1 (Dec 2006) as pessimistic, but the
fact is they are now accepted for labelling purposes. The changes mainly affect Total R calcs that have
upward-facing RFLs (reflective foil laminates).
Where applicable, the R-values of enclosed air spaces greater than 100mm were calculated per ISO 6946:2007
“Building components and building elements — Thermal resistance and thermal transmittance — Calculation
method”.
R-values are based on product in-service conditions including the alteration of insulation material R for
temperature introduced in Amdt 1. This mean airspace temperature is based on the particular construction and
the system bounding air temperatures for the Australian summer air temperature difference of 12K (36°C less
24°C), and winter air temperature difference of 6K (18°C less 12°C) set in Amdt 1. This has resulted in the
summer (heat flow in) Total R for walls being slightly less than for winter (heat flow out).
4. THERMAL BRIDGING
The original AS/NZS 4859.1:2002 clearly required reporting of the total thermal resistance for the insulation path
only. This Total R has many examples in prior editions of the BCA as well as in the 1985-2007 AIRAH
Handbooks.
Amendment 1 (Dec 2006) of AS/NZS 4859.1:2002 Clause 1.5.3.3 redefines Total R as "representative of the
element of construction”. For simplicity (the KISS principle), and to be consistent with earlier BCA releases, this
review assumes the “element of construction” is that which typifies the insulation path only.
The thermally bridged (full surface) Total R is normally very similar to the insulation path Total R for most
constructions. The main exceptions are high conductivity clad walls thermally coupled to metal frames without
thermal breaks (insulating spacers)
JAMES M FRICKER
B.Mech E, M.AIRAH, M.EngAust, CPEng
PAPERS PUBLISHED:
Computational Analysis of Reflective Air Spaces, AIRAH Journal, Oct 1997
Low Energy Housing Design, UNESCO conference, Alice Springs 1990 (co-author with Angelo Delsante, CSIRO)
Testing and Modelling Flexible Air Duct Insulation Performance, 21st International Conference on Thermal Insulation (co-author with Dr Peter
Johnson, RMIT)
(b) Revised dust assumptions that many find pessimistic but are now generally accepted for labelling purposes.
The changes mainly affect 2002 Total R calcs that have upward-facing RFLs (reflective foil laminates).
Preamble:
Most of the following changes are a result of changes in AS/NZS 4859.1:2002/Amdt 1 2006.
♦ Calculation conditions are based on Climate Zone energy requirements (not maximum heating or cooling
load requirements), so calculations are not based on extreme air temperature differences, but the
standard Australian air temperature differences per AS/NZS 4859.1:2002/Amdt 1 2006 (winter: 18°-12°C
= 6K, summer: 36°-24°C = 12K).
♦ Amendment 1 has revised the outdoor Air Film Resistance of R0.03 (7 m/s) to R0.04 (3m/s) for the same
reason. The extra 0.01 is insignificant so does not justify alteration of the Required Total R values now
referenced by many documents and legislation, but example Total R-calcs in the BCA should have the
0.04 and not the 0.03. Table insulation values should be adjusted so value additions maintain existing
“Minimum required Total R-Values”.
♦ AS/NZS 4859.1:2002/Amdt 1 2006 introduces calculation for insulation R affected by insulation mean
temperature, hence Wall Total R values are slightly lower for summer than for winter for highly insulated
walls.
♦ To retain simpler compliance, Total R calculations remain for the insulation path only in this review as
thermal bridging is discussed and considered elsewhere in the BCA.
♦ Calculation of the thermal resistance of unventilated air spaces has been well established for parallel
faced air spaces up to 100mm apart. ISO 6946:2007 "Building components and building elements —
Thermal resistance and thermal transmittance — Calculation method" now enables calculation for spaces
greater than 100mm apart. It is recommended this standard be included as a reference as AS/NZS
4859.1 has not yet been updated to reference it.
♦ Amdt 1 2006 introduces recognition of ground thermal resistance for enclosed subfloors, making it easier
to meet enclosed ground floor insulation requirements.
5.1 RECOMMENDATIONS
Spec J1.2 – 2, Table 2b TYPICAL R-VALUES FOR AIRSPACES AND AIR FILMS
"In any roof space with a horizontal ceiling, with a pitch more than 5°", Down should be R0.28, not R0.218 (typing
error).
Spec J1.2 – 2, Table 2c TYPICAL THERMAL PROPERTIES FOR REFLECTIVE SURFACES AND
AIRSPACES IN ROOFS
This table has needed some clarification, so I suggest renaming the heading to Table 2c ADDED R-VALUES
FOR REFLECTIVE INSULATION IN ROOF AIRSPACES
And adding the notes:
(i) "This table presumes the addition of the RBM adds a 20mm airspace between the RBM and roof
surface. The “outer emittance” is for the RBM face-up surface and the “inner emittance” is for the
face-down (dust-free) surface.” [Ed note: Thus the values are unaffected by the more severe dust
assumptions of AS/NZS 4859.1:2002/Amdt 1 2006]
(ii) “Where the RBM is a reflective bubble material or foam plastic, add its Material R-Value to the above
table values.”
Spec J1.3, Figure 2 TYPICAL R-VALUES FOR ROOF AND CEILING CONSTRUCTION &
Outdoor air film R0.03 (7 m/s) should be R0.04 (3m/s) per AS/NZS 4859.1:2002/Amdt 1 2006. Thus Roof and
Wall outdoor airfilm R values (summer and winter) are 0.01 higher.
For the same reason, Spec J1.5-2 Fig 2 Note 5 should be revised to:
"The Total R-Values in this Figure are for external walls. The Total R-Value for an internal wall of the
same construction would be 0.08 greater because the R-Value for an outdoor air film would be replaced
by that of an indoor air film."
Spec J1.6 Examples (b), (c), (d), Figure 2 TYPICAL R-VALUES FOR FLOOR CONSTRUCTION (for a floor
without a floor heating system)
As outdoor air film R0.03 (7 m/s) should be R0.04 (3m/s), raise Total R of ventilated subfloor example R-calcs by
0.01.
"3a. For floor types (b), (c) and (d) located over ground with enclosed perimeter, the Total R-Value can be
calculated by replacing the value for outdoor air film (R0.04) on the underside of the floor with the value
for indoor air film plus ground thermal resistance (i.e. R0.11+R0.56=R0.67 for heat flow up, or
R0.16+R0.58=R0.74 for heat flow down). The required heat flow direction is set by the Climate Zone.
3b. For floor types (c) and (d) that are located over an internal space, the Total R-Value can be calculated
by replacing the value for outdoor air film (R0.04) on the underside of the floor with the value for indoor air
film (R0.11 heat flow up, or R0.16 for heat flow down).
Add Note 7. “Where a RBM is attached beneath the floor to add a 100mm reflective air space, add R0.38 for heat
flow up and R1.14 for heat flow down.”
Add Note 8. "Where ground floor construction with enclosed perimeter makes the air space adjacent ground
reflective, the face-down subfloor air films will be R0.23 instead of R0.11 heat flow up, and R0.80 instead of R0.16
for heat flow down."
Figure 3.12.1.1 TYPICAL INSULATION OPTIONS FOR TYPICAL ROOF AND CEILING CONSTRUCTION, (a)
“Total R-Value of roof and ceiling materials” should be renamed to “Total R-Value of uninsulated roof”.
“Minimum required Total R values” should remain unchanged, thus all “Minimum added R-values of
insulation” should decrease by 0.04-0.03=0.01 due to the changed outdoor air film assumption.
Thus Tiled Roof Total R-Values (across the table) should be 0.44, 0.38, and 0.38 and metal Roof Total R-
Values should be 0.42, 0.36, and 0.36
Tiled Roof Total R-Values (across the table) should be 0.74, 0.23, and 0.23 and Metal Roof Total R-
Values should be 0.72, 0.21, and 0.21
Tiled Roof Total R-Values should be 0.56, 0.41, and 0.41 and Metal Roof Total R-Values should be 0.54,
0.39, and 0.39 (Again, Added R-values should remain unchanged.)
Likewise for Figure 3.12.1.3 TYPICAL INSULATION OPTIONS FOR TYPICAL WALL CONSTRUCTION, (a)
and (b) on page 433:
“Total R-Value of wall materials” should be renamed to “Total R-Value of uninsulated wall”.
“Minimum required Total R values” should remain unchanged, thus all “Minimum added R-values of
insulation” should decrease by 0.04-0.03=0.01 due to the changed outdoor air film assumption.
Also, (a) to (h) “Total R-Value of wall materials” should be renamed to “Total R-Value of uninsulated wall”
e.g. (a) Weatherboard, “Total R-Value of uninsulated wall” should be 0.48, not 0.47, hence “Minimum
added R-Value of insulation” should be 1.42, not 1.43, etc.
Likewise for the Total R-Values (b) to (h) and Added R-Values.
3. “Insulation R depends on temperature, so Wall Total R-Values are now calculated per AS/NZS
4859.1:2002/Amdt 1 2006 for summer, winter or both according to the climate zone. The direction of heat
flow is not stated as it is given for roofs with downwards in summer for roofs being inwards for walls and
upwards in winter for roofs being outwards for walls. However, for the example systems given, the
summer and winter Total R-values are similar, and, for simplicity, remain valid."
As AS/NZS 4859.1:2002/Amdt 1 2006 appropriately recognises and introduces Ground Thermal Resistance for
ground floors above an unventilated space, related Table 3.12.1.4 Minimum Total R-Values are more easily met.
Figure 3.12.1.4:
“Total R-Value of floor materials” should be renamed to “Total R-Value of uninsulated floor”. For (a) “Suspended
Timber Floor”, the value should not be just 0.7 but 1.3 for enclosed, and remain 0.7 for unenclosed.
The "Minimum required Total R-Values" remain unchanged, but because ground thermal resistance assists with
enclosed subfloor resistance (by R0.56 heat flow up, R0.58 for heat flow down), the (a) “Enclosed” “Suspended
Timber Floor” “Minimum R-Values of insulation” (0.3, 0.3, 0.8, 1.3) become 0, 0, 0.2, 0.7. (The “Unenclosed”
remain unchanged.)
Similarly for (b) “Suspended Concrete Slab”, “Total R-Value of floor materials” should be renamed to “Total R-
Value of uninsulated floor” and the value should not be just 0.65 but 1.2 for enclosed, and remain 0.65 for
unenclosed; and the “Minimum R-Values of insulation” (0.35, 0.35, 0.85) become 0, 0, 0.27. (The “Unenclosed”
remain unchanged.)
To note 2, add "Typically, where a RBM is attached beneath the floor to add a 100mm reflective air
space, add R0.38 for heat flow up and R1.14 for heat flow down. The required heat flow direction is set
by the Climate Zone."
Add note 5, "For floors located over ground with enclosed perimeter, the Total R-Value can be calculated
by replacing the value for outdoor air film (R0.04) on the underside of the floor with the value for indoor air
film plus ground thermal resistance (i.e. R0.11+R0.56=R0.67 for heat flow up, or R0.16+R0.58=R0.74 for
heat flow down).
For floors located over an internal space, the Total R-Value can be calculated by replacing the value for
outdoor air film (R0.04) on the underside of the unenclosed floor with the value for indoor air film (R0.11
heat flow up, or R0.16 for heat flow down)."
Add Note 6. "Where ground floor construction with enclosed perimeter makes the air space adjacent
ground reflective, the subfloor air films will be R0.23 instead of R0.11 heat flow up, and R0.80 instead of
R0.16 for heat flow down."
Add Note 7. “Where a RBM is attached beneath the floor to add a 100mm reflective air space, add R0.38
for heat flow up and R1.14 for heat flow down.”
Add Note 8. "For ground floor construction with enclosed perimeter, if the floor downward surface is
reflective, its air film will be R0.23 instead of R0.11 heat flow up, and R0.80 instead of R0.16 for heat flow
down."
Background: The current Clause 2.12.1.2(c) requires additional insulation in a roof where there are penetrations
such as downlights and fans and the amounts are in Table 3.12.1.1 however its use is limited as it is in terms of
the climate zone requirements.
6.1 RECOMMENDATIONS
Percentage of ceiling
Adjusted minimum added ceiling insulation
without insulation
0.00% R2.5 R3.0 R3.5 R4.0 R4.5 R5.0 R5.5 R6.0 R6.5 R7.0
up to 0.25% R2.6 R3.1 R3.6 R4.2 R4.7 R5.2 R5.8 R6.4 R6.9 R7.5
up to 0.50% R2.6 R3.2 R3.8 R4.3 R4.9 R5.5 R6.1 R6.8 R7.4 R8.1
up to 0.75% R2.7 R3.3 R3.9 R4.5 R5.2 R5.8 R6.5 R7.2 R7.9 R8.7
up to 1.00% R2.8 R3.4 R4.0 R4.7 R5.4 R6.2 R6.9 R7.7 R8.6 R9.5
up to 1.25% R2.9 R3.5 R4.2 R4.9 R5.7 R6.5 R7.4 R8.3 R9.3
up to 1.50% R2.9 R3.6 R4.4 R5.2 R6.1 R7.0 R8.0 R9.1
up to 2.00% R3.1 R3.9 R4.8 R5.8 R6.8 R8.0 R9.4
up to 2.50% R3.3 R4.2 R5.3 R6.5 R7.9 R9.5
up to 3.00% R3.6 R4.6 R5.9 R7.4 R9.3
up to 4.00% R4.2 R5.7 R7.6
up to 5.00% R5.0 R7.3 Compensatory insulation not applicable
up to 6.00% R6.2
NOTES:
(i) The above table shows what Added Ceiling Insulation is required to compensate for exposed ceiling
to provide equal thermal performance. These are applicable unless the cut-out has its own insulation,
e.g. downlight enclosure, or other insulation.
(ii) Assumes where there is no insulation, there is bare 10mm plasterboard and lamp has negligible R or
portion of insulation area is cut-out.
(iii) The above table is not an endorsement for high insulation, but the consequence of significant
uninsulated ceiling area. It is not intended as the solution to missing or removed insulation, but the
incentive for alternatives such as fewer downlights or heat shields to allow insulation to abut
downlights.
[JMF calculation assumptions: Extra R for insulation path: 0.279 (10mm plasterboard with 2 x R0.11 air films).
Base R for path without insulation: 0.279 (10mm plasterboard with 2 x R0.11 air films). Calculated by Isothermal
Planes method after including the thermal resistances of 10mm plasterboard and R0.11 air films.]
Background: The BCA Volumes 1 & 2 building fabric provisions contain requirements for Total R-Value of roofs,
walls and floors. These Total R-Values are based on timber framing and include an allowance for thermal
bridging of the insulation by the timber frame. In 2006, a requirement was added for a thermal break to be
attached to a metal frame in certain circumstances. This was in order for a metal famed building to have
comparable thermal performance to that of a timber framed one.
(ii) has lightweight external cladding such as weatherboards, fibre cement or metal sheeting fixed to the
metal frame; and
(iii) does not have a wall lining or has a wall lining that is fixed directly to the metal frame (see Figure
3.12.1.3(a) and (b)),
must have a thermal break, consisting of a material with an R-Value of not less than 0.2, installed between
the external cladding and the metal frame."
This study is to assess the option of compensatory insulation as an alternative option to the R0.2 thermal break
for metal-framed walls.
7.1 RECOMMENDATIONS
Refer "APPENDIX 1 – CLAD WALLS & THERMAL BREAKS" for illustrative calculations.
Recommendation: Replace
“must have a thermal break, consisting of a material with an R-Value of not less than 0.2, installed between
the external cladding and the metal frame."
With
“must have
(i) a thermal break consisting of a material with an R-Value of not less than 0.2, installed between the
external cladding and the metal frame OR
(iii) a suitably proven alternative to minimise thermal bridging, such as significant reduction of bridging
area by standoff washers or other spacers at fixing points "
Total R
JMF insulation Total Total R
Calc. CLAD WALLS & THERMAL BREAKS path overall loss
150.11b CEMENT SHEET CLADDING, VPS ON METAL FRAME WITH R1.8 BULK INSULATION & R2.04 R1.66 19%
PLASTERBOARD (70MM METAL STUD ON 450MM CENTRES)
(Base case: Bulk insulation not overlapping frame. R0.2 thermal break.)
150.12b CEMENT SHEET CLADDING, VPS ON METAL FRAME WITH R1.8 BULK INSULATION & R2.04 R1.37 33%
PLASTERBOARD (70MM METAL STUD ON 450MM CENTRES)
(Bulk insulation not overlapping frame. No thermal break.)
Comparing this with JMF 150.11b, it is evident that the lack of an R0.2 thermal break has
150.13b CEMENT SHEET CLADDING, VPS ON METAL FRAME WITH R2.65 BULK INSULATION & R2.89 R1.66 43%
Comparing this with JMF 150.11b, it is evident that R1.8 bulk insulation must be replaced with
R2.65 insulation if there is no R0.2 thermal break. (There may not be room for this level of bulk
insulation.)
150.14b CEMENT SHEET CLADDING, VPS ON METAL FRAME WITH R1.5 BULK INSULATION & R1.74 R1.67 4%
PLASTERBOARD (70MM METAL STUD ON 450MM CENTRES)
(Bulk insulation not overlapping frame. No thermal break but steel washers used as flange
standoffs.)
Comparing this with JMF 150.11b, with reduced thermal bridging area, R1.5 bulk insulation can
replace R1.8 insulation for the same overall Total R. (And without an R0.2 thermal break.)
(Steel stud flanges not connecting to cladding except via washer standoffs.)
150.111b CEMENT SHEET CLADDING, VPS ON METAL FRAME WITH R2.72 BULK INSULATION & R2.96 R2.20 26%
PLASTERBOARD (100MM METAL STUD ON 450MM CENTRES)
(Base case: Bulk insulation not overlapping frame. R0.2 thermal break.)
2nd reference case having R0.2 Thermal Break.
150.121b CEMENT SHEET CLADDING, VPS ON METAL FRAME WITH R2.72 BULK INSULATION & R2.96 R1.80 39%
PLASTERBOARD (100MM METAL STUD ON 450MM CENTRES)
(Bulk insulation not overlapping frame. No thermal break.)
Comparing this with JMF 150.111b, it is evident that the lack of an R0.2 thermal break has
150.131b CEMENT SHEET CLADDING, VPS ON METAL FRAME WITH R4.22 BULK INSULATION & R4.46 R2.20 51%
Comparing this with JMF 150.111b, it is evident that R2.72 bulk insulation must be replaced
with R4.22 insulation if there is no R0.2 thermal break. (There may not be room for this level of
bulk insulation.)
150.141b CEMENT SHEET CLADDING, VPS ON METAL FRAME WITH R2.1 BULK INSULATION & R2.31 R2.20 5%
PLASTERBOARD (100MM METAL STUD ON 450MM CENTRES)
(Bulk insulation not overlapping frame. No thermal break but steel washers used as flange
standoffs.)
Comparing this with JMF 150.111b, with reduced thermal bridging area, R2.1 bulk insulation
can replace R2.2 insulation for the same overall Total R. (And without an R0.2 thermal break.)
(Steel stud flanges not connecting to cladding except via washer standoffs.)
NOTES: The above shows Total R determinations based upon AS/NZS 4859.1:2002/Amdt 1 2006, Materials for the thermal
insulation of buildings.
JAMES M FRICKER PTY LTD Report i150b Australian Building Codes Board
- through cladding, batten, then metal "C" frame and internal wall lining.
Stud: framing of 0.55mm steel (k=50W/m.K), flanges 35mm, web 70mm, 450mm centres.
Transforming the frame into equivalent rectangular shapes per Equation 9, NZ Standard NZ 4214 2006:
The Total R is calculated by the average of results from Parallel Path Method and Isothermal Planes Method per CSIRO advice.
A more accurate result may require full scale testing or rigorous Finite Element Analysis.
Signed:
JAMES M FRICKER
B Mech Eng, CPEng, M.AIRAH
JAMES M FRICKER PTY LTD Report i150b Australian Building Codes Board
- through cladding, batten, then metal "C" frame and internal wall lining.
Stud: framing of 0.55mm steel (k=50W/m.K), flanges 35mm, web 70mm, 450mm centres.
Transforming the frame into equivalent rectangular shapes per Equation 9, NZ Standard NZ 4214 2006:
The Total R is calculated by the average of results from Parallel Path Method and Isothermal Planes Method per CSIRO advice.
A more accurate result may require full scale testing or rigorous Finite Element Analysis.
Signed:
Comparing this with JMF 150.11b, it is evident that the lack of an R0.2 thermal break
has reduced overall Total R from R1.66 to R1.37.
JAMES M FRICKER
B Mech Eng, CPEng, M.AIRAH
JAMES M FRICKER PTY LTD Report i150b Australian Building Codes Board
- through cladding, batten, then metal "C" frame and internal wall lining.
Stud: framing of 0.55mm steel (k=50W/m.K), flanges 35mm, web 70mm, 450mm centres.
Transforming the frame into equivalent rectangular shapes per Equation 9, NZ Standard NZ 4214 2006:
The Total R is calculated by the average of results from Parallel Path Method and Isothermal Planes Method per CSIRO advice.
A more accurate result may require full scale testing or rigorous Finite Element Analysis.
Signed:
Comparing this with JMF 150.11b, it is evident that R1.8 bulk insulation must be
replaced with R2.65 insulation if there is no R0.2 thermal break.
(There may not be room for this level of bulk insulation.) JAMES M FRICKER
B Mech Eng, CPEng, M.AIRAH
JAMES M FRICKER PTY LTD Report i150b Australian Building Codes Board
No thermal break
Insul Frame
415 35
Path area ratio after flanges
offset by steel washers: 99.2% 0.8%
Thermal resistances (m².K/W):
Outside Air Film, cement sheet
cladding: 0.064
Vapour Permeable Sarking 0.000 0.000
No thermal break: 0.000
Metal stud 0.149
Bulk Insulation 1.500
10mm Plasterboard 0.059
Indoor air film 0.120
Path Total R: 1.743 0.392 a
R by Parallel Path Method: 1.698
R by Isothermal Planes Method: 1.644
Total R: 1.67 b
% Reduction by thermal bridging: 4% c
- through cladding, batten, then metal "C" frame and internal wall lining.
Stud: framing of 0.55mm steel (k=50W/m.K), flanges 35mm, web 70mm, 450mm centres.
Transforming the frame into equivalent rectangular shapes per Equation 9, NZ Standard NZ 4214 2006:
The Total R is calculated by the average of results from Parallel Path Method and Isothermal Planes Method per CSIRO advice.
A more accurate result may require full scale testing or rigorous Finite Element Analysis.
Signed:
Comparing this with JMF 150.11b, with reduced thermal bridging area, R1.5 bulk
insulation can replace R1.8 insulation for the same overall Total R.
(Steel stud flanges not connecting to cladding except via washer standoffs.) JAMES M FRICKER
B Mech Eng, CPEng, M.AIRAH
JAMES M FRICKER PTY LTD Report i150b Australian Building Codes Board
- through cladding, batten, then metal "C" frame and internal wall lining.
Stud: framing of 0.55mm steel (k=50W/m.K), flanges 35mm, web 100mm, 450mm centres.
Transforming the frame into equivalent rectangular shapes per Equation 9, NZ Standard NZ 4214 2006:
The Total R is calculated by the average of results from Parallel Path Method and Isothermal Planes Method per CSIRO advice.
A more accurate result may require full scale testing or rigorous Finite Element Analysis.
Signed:
JAMES M FRICKER
B Mech Eng, CPEng, M.AIRAH
JAMES M FRICKER PTY LTD Report i150b Australian Building Codes Board
- through cladding, batten, then metal "C" frame and internal wall lining.
Stud: framing of 0.55mm steel (k=50W/m.K), flanges 35mm, web 100mm, 450mm centres.
Transforming the frame into equivalent rectangular shapes per Equation 9, NZ Standard NZ 4214 2006:
The Total R is calculated by the average of results from Parallel Path Method and Isothermal Planes Method per CSIRO advice.
A more accurate result may require full scale testing or rigorous Finite Element Analysis.
Signed:
Comparing this with JMF 150.111b, it is evident that the lack of an R0.2 thermal break
has reduced overall Total R from R2.2 to R1.8.
JAMES M FRICKER
B Mech Eng, CPEng, M.AIRAH
JAMES M FRICKER PTY LTD Report i150b Australian Building Codes Board
- through cladding, batten, then metal "C" frame and internal wall lining.
Stud: framing of 0.55mm steel (k=50W/m.K), flanges 35mm, web 100mm, 450mm centres.
Transforming the frame into equivalent rectangular shapes per Equation 9, NZ Standard NZ 4214 2006:
The Total R is calculated by the average of results from Parallel Path Method and Isothermal Planes Method per CSIRO advice.
A more accurate result may require full scale testing or rigorous Finite Element Analysis.
Signed:
Comparing this with JMF 150.111b, it is evident that R2.72 bulk insulation must be
replaced with R4.22 insulation if there is no R0.2 thermal break.
(There may not be room for this level of bulk insulation.) JAMES M FRICKER
B Mech Eng, CPEng, M.AIRAH
JAMES M FRICKER PTY LTD Report i150b Australian Building Codes Board
No thermal break
Insul Frame
415 35
Path area ratio after flanges
offset by steel washers: 99.2% 0.8%
Thermal resistances (m².K/W):
Outside Air Film, cement sheet
cladding: 0.064
Vapour Permeable Sarking 0.000 0.000
No thermal break: 0.000
Metal stud 0.187
Bulk Insulation 2.070
10mm Plasterboard 0.059
Indoor air film 0.120
Path Total R: 2.313 0.430 a
R by Parallel Path Method: 2.237
R by Isothermal Planes Method: 2.163
Total R: 2.20 b
% Reduction by thermal bridging: 5% c
- through cladding, batten, then metal "C" frame and internal wall lining.
Stud: framing of 0.55mm steel (k=50W/m.K), flanges 35mm, web 100mm, 450mm centres.
Transforming the frame into equivalent rectangular shapes per Equation 9, NZ Standard NZ 4214 2006:
The Total R is calculated by the average of results from Parallel Path Method and Isothermal Planes Method per CSIRO advice.
A more accurate result may require full scale testing or rigorous Finite Element Analysis.
Signed:
Comparing this with JMF 150.111b, with reduced thermal bridging area, R2.1 bulk
insulation can replace R2.2 insulation for the same overall Total R.
(Steel stud flanges not connecting to cladding except via washer standoffs.) JAMES M FRICKER
B Mech Eng, CPEng, M.AIRAH
JAMES M FRICKER PTY LTD i150a ABCB
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions
1. Scope
This Specification lists the thermal properties of some common construction materials.
2. Construction Deemed-to-Satisfy
(a) Table 2a lists the thermal conductivity considered to be achieved by some common
construction materials.
BCA 2009 Volume One Australian Building Codes Board Page 425
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Spec J1.2 – 2.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions
Table 2a THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY OF TYPICAL WALL, ROOF/CEILING AND FLOOR MATERIALS— continued
BCA 2009 Volume One Australian Building Codes Board Page 426
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Spec J1.2 – 2.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
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(b) Table 2b lists the R-Values considered to be achieved by air films and airspaces.
BCA 2009 Volume One Australian Building Codes Board Page 427
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Spec J1.2 – 2.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
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Table 2b TYPICAL R-VALUES FOR AIRSPACES AND AIR FILMS— continued
BCA 2009 Volume One Australian Building Codes Board Page 428
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Spec J1.2 – 2.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
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Table 2c TYPICAL THERMAL PROPERTIES FOR REFLECTIVE SURFACES AND AIRSPACES IN ROOFS— continued
BCA 2009 Volume One Australian Building Codes Board Page 429
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ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions
1. Scope
This Specification describes the thermal performance of some common forms of roof and ceiling
construction.
2. Construction Deemed-to-Satisfy
Figure 2 details the R-Values considered to be achieved by some common forms of roof and
ceiling construction.
BCA 2009 Volume One Australian Building Codes Board Page 430
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Spec J1.3 – 2.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
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Figure 2 TYPICAL R-VALUES FOR ROOF AND CEILING CONSTRUCTION— continued
BCA 2009 Volume One Australian Building Codes Board Page 431
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ENERGY EFFICIENCY
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Figure 2 TYPICAL R-VALUES FOR ROOF AND CEILING CONSTRUCTION— continued
(e) Skillion roof less than 5° pitch 1. Outdoor air 0.03 0.03
– 10 mm plaster below rafters film (7 m/s)
– Metal external cladding
2. Metal 0.00 0.00
cladding
3. Roof airspace 0.15 0.22
(100 mm to
300 mm,
non-reflective)
4. Plasterboard, 0.06 0.06
gypsum
(10 mm,
880 kg/m3)
5. Indoor air film 0.11 0.16
(still air)
Total R-Value 0.35 0.47
BCA 2009 Volume One Australian Building Codes Board Page 432
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Spec J1.3 – 2.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
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Figure 2 TYPICAL R-VALUES FOR ROOF AND CEILING CONSTRUCTION— continued
BCA 2009 Volume One Australian Building Codes Board Page 433
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Spec J1.3 – 2.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions
Figure 2 TYPICAL R-VALUES FOR ROOF AND CEILING CONSTRUCTION— continued
BCA 2009 Volume One Australian Building Codes Board Page 434
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ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions
1. Scope
This Specification describes the thermal performance of some common forms of external wall
construction.
2. Construction Deemed-to-Satisfy
Figure 2 details the R-Values considered to be achieved by some common forms of wall
construction.
BCA 2009 Volume One Australian Building Codes Board Page 435
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Spec J1.5 – 2.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
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Figure 2 TYPICAL R-VALUES FOR WALL CONSTRUCTION— continued
(e) Timber wall – external 6 mm cement sheet 1. Outdoor air film (7 m/s) 0.03
cladding, 90 mm stud frame, 10 mm plaster
2. Fibre cement (6 mm, 0.03
1360 kg/m3)
3. Airspace (90 mm 0.17
nonreflective and
unventilated)
4. Plasterboard, gypsum 0.06
(10 mm, 880 kg/m3)
5. Indoor air film (still air) 0.12
Total R-Value 0.41
BCA 2009 Volume One Australian Building Codes Board Page 436
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Spec J1.5 – 2.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
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Figure 2 TYPICAL R-VALUES FOR WALL CONSTRUCTION— continued
(g) 150 mm hollow-core concrete panels – 10 mm 1. Outdoor air film (7 m/s) 0.03
internal plaster on battens or furring channels
2. Prestressed hollow-core 0.14
concrete panels (150 mm,
1,680 kg/m3, 30% cores)
3. Airspace (20 mm to 0.17
40 mm non-reflective and
unventilated)
4. Plasterboard, gypsum 0.06
(10 mm, 880 kg/m3)
5. Indoor air film (still air) 0.12
Total R-Value 0.52
(h) Denseweight hollow concrete block with 1. Outdoor air film (7 m/s) 0.03
external 6 mm cement sheet cladding on
battens or furring channels
2. Fibre cement (6 mm, 0.03
1360 kg/m3)
3. Airspace (20 mm to 40 0.17
mm non-reflective and
unventilated)
4. Denseweight hollow 0.15
concrete block (See note
4)
5. 10 mm render 0.02
6. Indoor air film (still air) 0.12
Total R-Value 0.52
BCA 2009 Volume One Australian Building Codes Board Page 437
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Spec J1.5 – 2.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions
Figure 2 TYPICAL R-VALUES FOR WALL CONSTRUCTION— continued
BCA 2009 Volume One Australian Building Codes Board Page 438
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ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions
1. Scope
This Specification describes the thermal performance of some common forms of floor
construction.
2. Construction Deemed-to-Satisfy
Figure 2 details the R-Values considered to be achieved by some common forms of floor
construction, other than a concrete floor with an embedded floor heating system.
Figure 2 TYPICAL R-VALUES FOR FLOOR CONSTRUCTION (for a floor without a floor
heating system)
Floor construction description Item Item description R-Value
Up Down
(a) Timber internal floor, 10 mm internal 1. Indoor air film (still air) 0.11 0.16
plaster
2. Particleboard flooring (19 mm, 0.15 0.15
640 kg/m3)
3. Floor airspace, 100 mm to 0.15 0.22
300 mm (non reflective)
4. Plasterboard, gypsum (10 mm, 0.06 0.06
880 kg/m3)
5. Indoor air film (still air) 0.11 0.16
Total R-Value 0.58 0.75
(b) Timber, suspended ground floor, open 1. Indoor air film (still air) 0.11 0.16
sub-floor
2. Particleboard flooring (19 mm, 0.15 0.15
640 kg/m3)
3. Outdoor air film (7 m/s) 0.03 0.03
Total R-Value 0.29 0.34
BCA 2009 Volume One Australian Building Codes Board Page 439
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Spec J1.6 – 2.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions
Figure 2 TYPICAL R-VALUES FOR FLOOR CONSTRUCTION (for a floor without a floor heating system)— continued
(d) 150 mm hollow-core concrete planks, 1. Indoor air film (still air) 0.11 0.16
ground floor
2. Concrete topping (60 mm, 0.04 0.04
2,400 kg/m3)
3. Hollow-core concrete planks 0.14 0.14
(150 mm, 1,680 kg/m3, 30%
cores)
4. Outdoor air film (7 m/s) 0.03 0.03
Total R-Value 0.32 0.37
Notes:
1. The R-Value of an item, other than an air space, air film or air cavity, may be increased in
proportion to the increased thickness of the item.
2. The Total R-Value of a form of construction may be increased by the amount that an individual item
is increased.
3. For floor types (c) and (d) that are located over an internal space, the Total R-Value can be
calculated by replacing the value for outdoor air film (R0.03) on the underside of the floor with the
value for indoor air film (R0.11).
4. The addition of 10 mm of render to the ceiling of a suspended internal concrete floor will increase
the Total R-Value by 0.02.
5. Solid concrete slab includes concrete beam and infill floors and concrete precast permanent
formwork panels.
6. Where an airspace is filled, the R-Value listed for the airspace must be deducted from the Total
R-Value of the floor construction.
BCA 2009 Volume One Australian Building Codes Board Page 440