Requirements for limited smoke development are tightening across Europe, with more and more demanding measures to restrict smoke from insulation materials in fires. This requirement was made clear in Germany, for example, by the revision of the model administrative regulation MVV TB to define smoke development class s2 as the minimum requirement for flame-resistant building products. The fire resistance duration of building components (e.g. the lead-throughs of piping systems) also plays a significant role.

As a fully coordinated insulation system consisting of sheet, tube, pipe support and adhesive, Kaifix KKplus s2 meets stricter building and fire protection requirements as well as thermal requirements for very effective technical insulation. With building material class B_L/B-s2, d0 per EN 13501-1, the insulation already meets the requirements in the bid tender standard as well as those of MVV TB.

Thanks to our patented KaiCene technology, the panels can remain uncoated and, like the hose material, help reduce smoke development and improve personal safety in the event of fire. 

With its very low thermal conductivity, with lambda values of up to λ ≤0.033 W/(m·K) (tube) and λ ≤0.038 W/(m·K) (sheet), and a water vapour diffusion resistance of up to μ ≥10,000 this closed-cell insulation gives long-term protection from energy loss and corrosion, even at low insulation thicknesses.

Protection of refrigeration systems against condensation

As a flexible insulation at the highest technical level with limited smoke development, the Kaiflex KKplus s2 system is particularly suited for insulating cooling systems in highly frequented public and commercial buildings like airports, large office complexes, hospitals and hotels. Due to its antimicrobial and noise-reduction properties and its fibre-free nature, the Kaiflex KKplus s2 system also meets the highest hygienic requirements, and can be used in medical facilities without hesitation. With their closed-cell and antimicrobial structure, Kaiflex KKplus s2 insulation materials reduce moisture and so inhibit moulds and their spores and gases (mycotic volatile organic compounds (MVOC)). In this way the insulation system contributes to better room air quality.

The insulation is ideal for pipe lead-throughs with fire resistance durations of 90 or even 120 minutes per DIN 4102-11. Kaiflex KKplus s2 is self-extinguishing and does not drip. In addition, up to a pipe diameter of 133 mm for steel and 42 mm for copper, no additional fire protection collar is needed for penetrations through solid structural components.

Kaiflex KKplus s2 reliably prevents the formation of condensation and pipe corrosion. The closed cells provide a full water vapour barrier, effectively reducing dampness and so maintaining the material’s high insulation throughout the service life of the insulated system. Due to its technical properties, the insulation thus contributes to a sustained reduction in energy costs.

Further advantages

Another advantage of the system is that the insulation thickness of Kaiflex KKplus s2 hoses increases within the product group as pipe thickness increases. Thus, for each application, the ideal insulation thickness for condensation prevention is provided, resulting in material and cost savings. Technical values like construction material class, thermal conductivity and water vapour diffusion resistance remain constant across all insulation layer thicknesses.

With its classification and benefits, Kaiflex KKplus s2 makes planning for high fire protection requirements easier and safer. Additional assistance in planning and selecting the optimum insulation system is provided by the Kaimann Fire Protection Planner at www.sgti-firepenetration.com. The Environmental Product Declarations (EPD) make the ecological assessment of Kaimann insulations even more transparent. In this way, the company assists in the planning and certification of sustainable buildings.