Butler and Bay Insulation develop thermal testing program

The Butler Research Center in Grandview, Mo., is the site where Butler Manufacturing, Kansas City, Mo., and Bay Insulation Co., Green Bay, Wis., have embarked on an extensive test program using an apparatus known as a “Guarded Hot Box” that precisely measures thermal conductance through insulated roof and wall system assemblies, announced David E. Evers, P.E., Butler vice president of research and development. The initiative represents a significant investment by Butler and partner Bay Insulation to develop more sustainable, energy-efficient buildings. The Butler Research Center performs these tests in accordance with recognized standards (ASTM C-1363) and is accredited by the International Accreditation Service for quality control and compliance with ASTM, ISO and the National Bureau of Standards. “The tests will produce the most accurate database yet for the in-place thermal performance of complete metal roof and wall assemblies and enable the development of newer and more thermally efficient building envelopes,” Evers said. Mike McLain, general manager of Bay Insulation Co., said: “The Guarded Hot Box will give us a myth-busting process for developing actual versus theoretical, or worse, perceived performance data. The information will also lead to the development of stricter field installation standards that could ultimately amend our building codes.”