For acoustic and thermal insulation applications, one of the most commonly utilized materials is melamine foam insulation. While it demonstrates adequate sound absorption and thermal insulation characteristics, there is an alternative material solution that offers more effective and efficient performance for original equipment manufacturer (OEM) needs—polyester fiber insulation.
The following blog post provides a comparison between polyester fiber and melamine foam to outline which material option is better for acoustic and thermal insulation applications.
Polyester Fiber vs. Melamine Foam
Compared to melamine foam, polyester fiber offers a number of advantages that make it more suitable for use as acoustic and thermal insulation, such as:
- Greater durability. Polyester fiber is much more durable than melamine foam. It maintains its shape and structural integrity after exposure to most chemicals, fuels, and oils—as well as water, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and ozone—without requiring the addition of specialty coatings or finishes. In contrast, melamine foam needs extra processing to achieve similar hydrophobicity and other surface characteristics.
Higher flexibility. Both polyester fiber and melamine foam demonstrate a high degree of flexibility. However, polyester fiber demonstrates better flexibility than melamine foam, which makes insulation made from it easier to incorporate into compact spaces.- Better handleability. As indicated above, polyester fiber is easier to work with than melamine foam. This quality is due largely to the material’s durability and flexibility, which allow it to remain intact even when bent or dropped. In contrast, melamine foam—when mishandled—may snap if sufficient force is applied to it.
- Lower cost. Melamine foam comes with a high price tag, especially if special coatings are required to make it suitable for use in specific environments. In contrast, polyester fiber has a lower manufacturing cost, which, in turn, results in a lower purchasing cost. As such, OEMs can invest in low-cost material without sacrificing insulation quality.
Higher flexibility. Both polyester fiber and melamine foam demonstrate a high degree of flexibility. However, polyester fiber demonstrates better flexibility than melamine foam, which makes insulation made from it easier to incorporate into compact spaces.Why Choose Polyester Fiber From Technicon Acoustics?
As outlined above, polyester fiber exhibits many qualities that make it ideal for acoustic and thermal insulation applications. However, benefiting from these material qualities necessitates choosing high-quality material from a reputable supplier.
At Technicon Acoustics, we offer a proprietary fiber blend that demonstrates exceptional sound absorption and thermal insulation properties. It is a non-toxic material characterized by excellent low-frequency absorption and high-temperature resistance (up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit). Additionally, as it is made from a combination of virgin fiber and pre-consumer and post-consumer waste, it is highly recyclable, making it a much more environmentally alternative to other insulation options. The material is also UL94 HF1 listed and complies with Docket 90 Testing standards for flame, smoke, and toxicity (ASTM E162, ASTM E662, and BSS7238).
All of our materials are highly customizable. The polyester fiber is available in several thicknesses (ranging 0.5 to 2.0 inches) with options for cut pieces (for ease of use) and adhesive backing (for ease of installation).
For additional information about our polyester fiber material and how it can suit your acoustic or thermal insulation needs, contact us or request a quote today.
