Composite Panels

Question 1

Name the three different types of composite panels

Answer 1

1. Sandwich panels
2. Structural insulated panels
3. Large insulated sandwich panels

Question 2

Name the two major elements that make up a composite panel

Answer 2

1. The skin
2. The core

Question 3

List 5 places you may expect to find composite panels

Answer 3

1. Cold stores
2. Supermarkets
3. Food processing factories
4. Schools
5. Hospitals
6. Prisons
7. Warehouses and depots
8. Offices
9. Residential buildings

Question 4

What are the main hazards associated with composite panels in a fire

Answer 4

1. Large sheets falling from above
2. Rapid fire spread (up to 30 metres a minute)
3. Intense heat (up to 1000 degrees)
4. Molten droplets
5. Toxic smoke
6. Undetected fire spread and difficult access to the core
7. Fire progression may not be heard due to good sound insulation

Question 5

How can fire enter a composite panel without delamination?

Answer 5

1. If there is a failure in the joints of the panel
2. Damage has breached the integrity of the panel through ducting or trunking
3. Mechanical damage has occurred (e.g. by a forklift truck)