Change to Thermal Insulation Values

The introduction of a range of harmonised European (EN) standards for thermal insulation products prompted many suppliers to the UK market to declare reliable characteristic values for thermal conductivity.

The characteristic λ90/90 values may appear less favourable than values quoted in Agrément Certificates, however, it is worth bearing in mind that they have evolved from the mean measured thermal conductivity values to give a better representation of the thermal conductivity of an insulation product. The λ90/90 values help to ensure the declared thermal conductivity relates to 90% of production with a 90% confidence level.

The BBA has a duty to work towards a level playing and our objective is to ensure that the thermal performance of all Agrément approved insulation is declared at a 90/90 confidence level within the next 12 to 18 months.

To do this in a way that is fair to all clients and users of BBA certificates we are running the conversion as a project whereby, sector by sector, we contact holders of all "non compliant" Certificates with the aim of revising their quoted conductivity values by insulation type. During this period of transition we are urging all applicants to adopt the λ90/90 approach as soon as practicable.

By doing this as a single project we hope to be able to deliver the service cost-effectively and that saving will be passed to our clients.

If you have any questions or queries then please speak to your Project Manager or the BBA Sales and Marketing Department on +44 (0)1923 665300.