MSR33 WalPanel System

Questions & Answers

1.   What is the MSR33 WalPanel System?
Answer: The MSR33 WalPanel System is a structural grade 5½” thick
load-bearing “double” metal stud composite exterior wall system with rigid, fire-retardant Modified Expanded Polystyrene Resin (EPS) bonded to the metal studs. There are actually two rows of metal studs, one on the exterior face and one on the interior face, completely separated to produce a true thermal break for superior thermal performance.
2.   What is Modified Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)?

Answer: The Expanded Polystyrene resin used in MSR33 WalPanels has been
modified by a flame retardant additive and is in full compliance with
building codes and has received HUD approval. The use of EPS as a major
material component gives the MSR33 WalPanel the following advantages

*      Consistently stable R-Values do to closed cellular structure, containing stabilized air.

*      The panels are rigid and lightweight.

*      Contains no CFC's or HCFC's. There is no off gassing.

*      Contains no formaldehyde.

*      Resists fungus, decay and moisture gain.

*      Will not rot; highly resistant to mildew.

*      Environmentally safe.

*      No food for termites and other common wood eaters.
3.   What makes the MSR33 WalPanel System so energy efficient?

Answer: MSR33 WalPanels are Energy Star qualified for residential applications. The MSR33 WalPanel provides not only structural integrity, but excellent insulation properties
as well. The EPS component of the panel is solid and does not provide voids or allow air movement through walls. The unique design and utilization of the double row of metal studs within the panel provides for a thermal break across the panel. In “stick built” walls, each stud is a thermal conductor from one wall surface to the other. Quoted R-Values are only for the properly installed insulation between the studs (look at any thermal photo). Due to the low permeability properties of EPS (water resistance or ability of panel to breathe), ever-present moisture does not effect the R-Values or thermal performance. The unique design of the panel and the use of EPS as a component provide little or no R-Value drift or loss and results in a stable thermal performance for the life of the structure. The R-Value of EPS remains the same in Year 20 as on Day one.

The thermal insulation properties of expanded polystyrene are well known. In
addition, MSR33 WalPanels are designed with thermal breaks throughout. The
metal studs are designed so as not to create a thermal bridge from the inside to the outside of the panel. Even the ship lapped joints help preserve the integrity of the thermal break.

4.   Does the MSR33 WalPanel System require special or different materials for finishing the structure?

Answer: NO! In fact most finishes require less work than old-fashioned
“stick built” construction. The dimensional modules are compatible with
standard building materials to be attached and utilized with the panels.
Cement based plasters may be applied following manufacturer's
recommendations.
5.   Have the MSR33 WalPanels been fire tested?
Answer: Yes! Fire tests have proven that EPS gives off fewer toxins than even conventional wood framing (UBC Std. 17-5, ASTM E 119). A Full UL wall
assembly fire test was conducted 2005 to achieve a 1-hour UL rating.

 
5½”, 1.0 PCF
UL Flame Spread Rating
5-20
UL Smoke Developed Rating
125-175
6.   Have actual structural load tests been performed to determine Engineering loading capabilities?
Answer: Yes! Extensive structural testing has been performed by independent
laboratories under ASTM E 72, C-518-76, E 96-80, E 119, E 90, E 413 to
evaluate the structural integrity of the panels and to obtain building code
compliance.

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