what is R-value and super insulation?

Answer 1

http://www.eaglecoatings.net/content/thermal/Tutorial.htm

and similar pages obtained through a simple search in yahoo (I just copied your question and hit the button) will give you a fairly good idea of the thermodynamics of heat transfer and insulation of buildings.

Answer 2

Hi Blue Spark,

R Value is just a convenient way of measuring the effectiveness of an insultator. For instance, 6-inch thick fiberglass has an R-value of 18.80, while drywall has an R-value of 0.45. R-values are used by builders and engineers, not so much by physicists, who prefer to just use the thermal conductivity coefficient for various materials.

Super insulation is a multi-layered mat of heat and light reflecting material separated by fiberglass. This is then sealed into a vacuum (or something reasonably close to one). But unlike old designs, a slight leak to the vacuum doesn't render the Dewar Flask useless.

I see you're working on some kind of thermal bottle. If you would like any suggestions or guidance, please feel free to call me at my office, 205-348-3779. You might have to try a few times, because I'm there rarely, but if you keep trying, you'll get me.

The first step in designing any kind of thermal containment system is to define your 'heat envelope.' There is no need to overengineer the thing, but at the same time, new developments in plastics and construction techniques allow for some really nice effects.

Answer 3

www.buyinsulationproducts.com