Big Bubble

Big Bubble Duct Insulation R-8.0

R-8.0

Note: Installation instructions and illustrated drawings are recommendations only, while proper local construction methods are the responsibility of the installer.

Reflectix® Duct Insulation is an alternative to other types of fibrous insulation products. Ease of handling and quick installation make Reflectix® the first choice when selecting insulation for round or rectangular ductwork in HVAC systems. The product provides an R-8.0 when installed with a 0.75” air gap between the duct and the insulation, and R-6.0 when installed direct to the duct without a spacer.

Product Description

The Reflectix® R-8.0 Duct Insulation is a nominal 1” thick and consists of an outer reflective surface, two layers of big bubbles in the center, and a second outer reflective surface. The product has printed code certification that runs the length of the roll. The printed information includes R-value, ASTM numbers, manufacturer’s name and testing.

Benefits

  • Wrap rectangular or round ductwork in HVAC applications
  • Heating costs can be greatly reduced
  • Eliminate unnecessary heat loss / gain and air leakage
  • Helps to ensure consistent temperatures
  • Itch and fiber-free
  • Inhibits condensation
  • Non-toxic / non-carcinogenic
  • Lightweight and clean
  • Lowers heating and cooling costs year-round
  • Reflects 96% of radiant energy
  • Costs less to install
  • Requires less space than fiberglass to achieve R-8 (with 3/4” air space)
  • Class A / Class 1 Fire Rating
  • Does not promote nesting of birds, insects or rodents
  • Resists growth of fungi, mold and mildew
  • Does not require protective clothing or respirators to install
  • Not affected by moisture or humidity
  • Reduces heat loss or gain in a duct system
  • ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturing location

Part Numbers and Sizes

  • HVBB48075 (48”x 75’)

Spacers:

  • HVSP0202506
  • HVSPACER

Technical Data

  • Temperature Range: -30 to +180 F
  • Nominal Thickness: 1 inch
  • Weight: 1.25 oz./sq. ft.
  • Flame Spread Index (ASTM E 84): Less than 25
  • Smoke Developed Index (ASTM E 84): Less than 50
  • Fire Rating: Class A/Class 1
  • Linear Shrinkage: None
  • Reflectance (IR): 96%
  • Water Vapor Transmission (ASTM E 96): 0.02
  • Puncture Resistance: 60 lb./in.
  • Mold and Mildew: No Growth
  • Emittance: 0.04
  • Tensile Strength: 3.7 N/mm
  • Pliability: No Cracking
  • Hot Surface Performance: 250 F

Note: Not for use in direct contact on surface temperatures that are 180 F or greater.

Testing and Certification

  • Thermal Performance ASTM C335
  • Thermal Conductivity and Thermal Resistance of Blanket ASTM C518
  • Hot Surface Performance ASTM C411
  • Flame Spread and Smoke Density ASTM E84
  • Fungus Resistance Mil-Std 810B Method 508
  • Pliability Test ASTM C1224
  • Sound Absorption Test ASTM C423 and ASTM E795
  • Sound Transmission Loss ASTM E90 and ASTM E413
  • Water Vapor Transmission ASTM E96
  • Tensile Strength ASTM D751
  • Emittance Testing ASTM C1371
  • Bleeding and Delamination ASTM C1668
  • Intertek: Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials ASTM E84-10b (Taped Joint Detail) Test Report # 100402776SAT- 001D Rev 1
  • Intertek: Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials ASTM E84-10 (Unslit) Test Report # 100054110SAT-007G Rev 1
  • R&D Services: Resistance to the Growth of Fungi ASTM C1338-00 Test Report # RD10510
  • State of California
  • State of California Licensed Insulation Manufacturer
  • State of Minnesota: Filed with Minnesota Insulation Standards Program
  • R&D Services Emittance Testing
  • R&D Services: Physical Properties Sheet Width, Length, Pliability, Water Vapor Permanence and Aged Water Vapor Permanence
  • R&D Services: Water Vapor Transmission Test ASTM-E96 (Dessicant Method)

Installation Instructions

1. Spacer Perpendicular to Duct Direction Method

Spacer: HVSPW02025 – Reflectix® Spiral Pipe Wrap 2”x 25’

  • Refer to the top two diagrams above. Make sure all sheet metal joints, seams and penetrations are sealed.
  • Double wrap and secure spacer material to the duct at 24” to 36” intervals. Use a UL 181 approved tape to fasten the spacer in place.
  • Verify the circumference of the duct at the mid-point of a spacer strip. Cut the Reflectix® product to this length plus 1”.
  • Wrap the product around the duct and securely tape the linear and circumference seams (overlapping 1”- 2”) with a UL 181 approved tape (goal is an air-tight, snug seam seal). Do not leave any exposed duct or space where air can enter between the duct and the Reflectix®.

2. Spacer Wrapped in Candy Cane Fashion Method

Spacer: HVSPW02025 – Reflectix® Spiral Pipe Wrap 2”x 25’

  • Refer to the third and fourth (from the top) diagrams above. Make sure all sheet metal joints, seams and penetrations are sealed.
  • Double wrap and secure spacer material to the duct in a candy cane fashion. First, proceed down the duct in one direction then reverse direction and crisscross (overlap) the spacer in the other direction. Use a UL 181 approved tape to fasten the spacer in place.
  • Verify the circumference of the duct with the spacer strips in place. Cut the Reflectix® product to this length plus 1”.
  • Wrap the product around the duct and securely tape the linear and circumference seams (overlapping 1”- 2”) with a UL 181 approved tape (goal is an air-tight, snug seam seal). Do not leave any exposed duct or space where air can enter between the duct and the Reflectix®.

3. HV Spacers Affixed to Corners Method (Rectangular Ducts Only)

Spacer: HVSpacer – Reflectix® HARD PLASTIC CORNER SPACER

  • Refer to the lower two diagrams above. Make sure all sheet metal joints, seams and penetrations are sealed.
  • Make sure the duct is free from dust and dirt by wiping it down with a shop rag.
  • Install the HV Spacers to all 4 corners of the duct. Place the spacers every 36” apart. Verify the circumference of the duct over the top of the spacers.
  • Cut the Reflectix® product to this length plus 1”. Wrap the Reflectix® over the spacers.
  • Fasten the Reflectix® by either taping the seam with a UL 181 approved tape, or plier stapling the two edges together (goal is an air-tight, snug seam seal).
  • If the duct is supported with saddle clamps, make sure to install a spacer on the two bottom edges of the duct directly between the clamp and the duct. If the clamps are installed around the duct (such as plumbers tape), make sure that the seam is taped to prevent air movement.

Please Note Regarding Hangers:

Strap Hanger: Wrap Reflectix® with the seam at the hanger. Tape seam tightly around hanger.

Saddle Hanger: Make sure that there is a spacer below the hanger between the insulation and the duct to prevent the insulation from touching the duct.

Installation Video

Important

Review These Important Safety Guidelines Prior to Installation:

  • ALWAYS check local building codes before installing Reflectix®.
  • ALWAYS check the area you are insulating and make any needed repairs. Any worn wiring should be replaced before you begin installing Reflectix®.
  • ALWAYS make sure work areas are well ventilated and well lighted.
  • ALWAYS use eye protection when operating a staple gun.
  • ALWAYS use caution and common sense when using a staple gun. Be aware of electrical wiring locations. Stapling into a wire can cause severe shock or death. NEVER staple into electrical wiring.
  • ALWAYS be careful when working with large pieces of Reflectix® on windy days.
  • When installing Reflectix® on bright sunny days, it is best to wear sun glasses.
  • Do not work in areas such as attics when temperatures are too hot.
  • Please Note: The intention of these Installation Instructions and 3-D renderings are for the sole purpose of illustrating the correct location and relative position of the Reflectix® products in specific building assemblies. The correct construction methods and techniques are the responsibility of the installer or contractor. The methods outlined are recommendations on location of the Reflectix® products as a guideline. There are no claims on the part of Reflectix, Inc. that these building assemblies are finite standards or meet building code requirements (as they can vary by region).

Photos

Pictured: 1. Big Bubble Duct Insulation, 2. Big Bubble Close-up