You have probably heard of aluminum composite panels which are modern construction materials widely used for building cladding systems. But are there other types of composite panels? What makes them different from the others? Which one is the best for your building project? You will find out your answer in this complete guide. But before that, let’s discuss a little about these modern materials.
What are Composite Panels?
Despite the types of composite panels, all of these materials consist of three primary layers, which are:
- Second Coated Aluminum Panel
- Fire-Retardant Core
- Second Coated Aluminum Panel
In addition to the layers above, ACM panel suppliers and manufacturers add sub-layers, including protectors and adhesives, to increase the durability of different types of composite panels.
The combination of the three layers creates the types of composite panels that offer features and physical properties that help builders and architects make the building with various advantages.
Advantages of All Types of Composite Panels
- Composite Panels are Low Maintenance Materials
- Most Composite Panels are Lightweight Materials
- Metal Composites Such as ACP are Easy to Install
- Composite Materials Offer Fire-Safety
- All Types of Composite Panels are Versatile
- Fabricating Composite Materials is Easy
- Using High-Quality ACM Cladding Increases Building’s Value
Learn more about the advantages of ACP.
Here are the Best Types of Composite Panels in Canada
Types of composite panels are divided into different categories based on standard indicators such as applications, core material, facing material, appearance, and the protective layer.
Now let’s take a deeper look into each indicator that classifies different types of composite panels.
1- Types of Composite Panels Based on Core Material
Manufacturers generally use polymer products such as polyurethane sponges and polyethylene foam to produce the central layer material. Some manufacturers create this layer by using recycled substances.
Materials such as rock fiber and rock wool are also used in the core material to add a non-flammable characteristic to different types of composite panels. Modern manufacturers also use other substances for the same purpose, including:
- Oval Foams
- Rebound Foam
- Pyramidal Cloud
- XP Foam
- Flex Panel
- Wood
Another way of making the core layer of different types of composite panels is by using polyurethane foam spray, which is one of the most popular methods.
The primary thing about the core layer that separates each composite material from the other is its thickness—the thickness of composite panels defined based on the application.
2- Different Facing Material for Composite Panels
Manufacturers utilize various materials (generally metals) for the facing layer of composite panels.
When we use the word “composite,” we talk about the combination of two or more materials with different properties. So, different types of composite panels are made from other materials. These materials can be mineral, organic, and metallic.
The most common facing materials are:
- Steel
- Aluminum
- Zinc
- Titanium
Although all of the materials above are practical, the most valuable composite materials are made from aluminum. These aluminum cladding systems are considered one of the best investments in the building industry.
3- Application Classification for CP
Different types of composite panels are used for various purposes and applications. Depending on the application, manufacturers produce panels that have unique characteristics. However, three primary features separate the composite materials which are:
- Fireproofing the building
- Antibacterial systems
- Sound, moisture, and thermal insulation
For each of the applications above, different materials and layers are used. If you want to start a construction project or renovate your home with composite panels, call us today, and we are confident you will find the most suitable material for your application with our help.
4- The Appearance of Composite Materials
One of the best things about all types of composite panels is that they can have various colors, styles, and textures such as wood, stone, or metallic finishes.
With composite materials, you can have the classic look of natural elements and the extreme durability of metals such as aluminum and steel. For example, with wood pattern aluminum composite panels, you can create the natural feel of wood while avoiding challenges such as maintenance, termites, damages, etc.
5- Types of Composite Panels Based on the Protective Layer
The last thing that divides composite panels is the protective layer that each one has. The most common protective coatings are:
- Polyester Paint: Does not combine with other protective materials. It is suitable for decorative applications.
- PVDF Color: It is one of the most resistant materials against climate change and environmental conditions.
- Glossy Colors: If you want your home facade to stand out and look extremely attractive in your neighborhood, glossy or metallic color finishes are the best choice for you.
- Nano Finish: It is the newest and the most resistant coating against corrosion since it does not absorb rainwater.