ASTM C 591 : 2021

1.1This specification covers the types, physical properties, and dimensions of unfaced, preformed rigid cellular polyisocyanurate plastic material intended for use as thermal insulation on surfaces from –297°F (–183°C) to 300°F (149°C). For specific applications, the actual temperature limits shall be agreed upon by the manufacturer and purchaser.

1.2This specification only covers “polyurethane modified polyisocyanurate” thermal insulation which is commonly referred to as “polyisocyanurate” thermal insulation. This standard does not encompass all polyurethane modified materials. Polyurethane modified polyisocyanurate and other polyurethane materials are similar, but the materials will perform differently under some service conditions.

1.3This standard is designed as a material specification, not a design document. Physical property requirements vary by application and temperature. At temperatures below –70°F (–51°C) the physical properties of the polyisocyanurate insulation at the service temperature are of particular importance. Below –70°F (–51°C) the manufacturer and the purchaser must agree on what additional cold temperature performance properties are required to determine if the material can function adequately for the particular application.

1.4This standard addresses requirements of unfaced preformed rigid cellular polyisocyanurate thermal insulation manufactured using blowing agents with an ozone depletion potential of 0 (ODP 0).

1.5Except 6.2 and 8.2 – 8.4, which are related to the size and shape of fabricated parts, and 16.1, which is related to the storage of fabricated parts, the requirements in this standard specification apply to the polyisocyanurate insulation in the form of buns supplied by the insulation manufacturer.

1.6When adopted by an authority having jurisdiction, codes that address fire properties in many applications regulate the use of the thermal insulation materials covered by this specification. Fire properties are controlled by job, project, or other specifications where codes or government regulations do not apply.

1.7The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.8This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.9This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.