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Frequently Asked Questions
I.) What is the Tridipanel? How is it made? What is it made of?
The Tridipanel is a prefabricated panel. This extremely strong structural
product consists of a super-insulated core of rigid expanded polystyrene
sandwiched between two-engineered sheets of eleven-gauge steel welded wire
fabric mesh. To complete the panel form process a nine-gauge galvanized steel
truss wire is pierced completely through the polystyrene core at off set angles
for superior strength and welded to each of the outer layer sheets of
eleven-gauge steel welded wire fabric mesh. Once these three elements are joined
by EVG's state of the art manufacturing equipment, you end up with a
THREE-DIMENSIONAL lightweight panel that due to their characteristics makes them
one of the strongest building materials you can find.
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II.) How is the Tridipanel used?
Tridipanel is used for numerous building applications. It may be used in
place of wood framed walls, metal-framed walls, and masonry block walls or in
place of pre cast panels. Tridipanel may also be used for floor systems,
ceilings and to provide a roof structure. Tridipanel is an excellent product for
building privacy walls around the home or building structure. Tridipanel is
being used by many landscape companies in place of masonry block. With handsome
good looks and great flexibility, Tridipanel can be used in conjunction with all
of the building trades above.
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III.) What choices of Tridipanel core density and steel mesh styles are
available?
Dimensions of the panels are manufactured from a starting width of (4') x
(8') length. The panels can be prefabricated up to (40' in length) in (8"
increments). Truss wire gauges available are 11, 12.5 and 14. Polystyrene Core
Outer Layer Wire Thickness Mesh to Mesh 1.5" 2.5" 2.0" 3.0" 2.5" 3.5" 3.0" 4.0"
3.5" 4.5" 4.0" 5.0" 4.5" 5.5" 5.0" 6.0". Please request a price list and
information on custom made panels to meet special requirements you may have on
up future projects.
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IV.) How does Tridipanel compare in cost to other building
systems?
The cost is dependent upon the design and finish of your project. Every
structure is unique like a fingerprint; no two are alike. This makes analyzing
the cost on a square foot basis difficult. Our product is not price competitive
with (2x4) stick framing. Tridipanel is competitive with (2x6) stick framing,
metal stud framing and our product is more competitive than block. Keep in mind
Tridipanel is extremely versatile and can be used with any of the above systems.
For return on investment, Tridipanel beats stick framing as well as most other
building systems readily. The Tridipanels account for a fraction of your
structure's cost. The dollars you spend on the Tridipanels can be made up very
quickly in energy savings alone. Over the life of the structure, the savings are
quite staggering.
Here is a list of
attractive benefits of the Tridipanel System.
- Fast \ High Quality
Construction Time saved - 50% faster than standard construction Speedy
occupancy - Saves money on construction loan dollars - Enhanced resale and
marketability value Reduces the need for heavy equipment on job Fewer trades
on job site.
- Strength \ Durability \
Greater Structural Integrity Virtually maintenance-free wall system Saves on
long term replacement cost of structure Polystyrene panel or concrete will not
decay Monolithic design for superior strength.
- Safety \ Security
Excellent performance in seismic zones (Earthquake Resistance) Non-combustible
structure Savings of 18% to 30% on fire insurance Excellent high wind
protection-up to 225mph Insect \ Termite \ Rodent Resistant Mold, mildew, and
fungi resistant.
- Pro Environment \Energy
Efficient Maximum Conservation of forestry products Structure durability
offers value for generations and saves many Earth resources Dramatically
reduces consumption of fossil fuels Reduces the size and cost of HVAC systems
Save 50 to 80% of utility costs on heating and cooling the structure.
- Quality \ Comfort \
Design Flexibility Virtually eliminate outdoor noises Reduce drafts and wide
temperature fluctuations Enjoy air quality virtually free of dust, pollen and
allergens with use of an air exchanger Create an acoustical environment for
full advantage of sophisticated sound systems and home theaters.
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V.) What code's do Tridipanel conform with?
Tridipanel meets the CABO one and two-story family dwelling codes
(Compliance Report No. NER-454, 1/01/1993) which satisfies all SBCCI, ICBO and
BOCA requirements for standard buildings. Tridipanel also has HUD compliance
covered under SEB# 1120. CABO-Council of American Building Officials ICBO-International
Conference Building Officials SBCCI-Southern Building Code Congress
International, Inc. BOCA-Building Officials and Code Administrators HUD-Housing
Urban Development (SEB# 1120) NES- National Evaluation Service, Inc. (NER-454)
Miami-Dade County Building Code Compliance Office American Society for Testing
and Materials American National Standards Institute copies of the above reports
available upon request.
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VI.) What is the insulation (R) Value factors for the Tridipanel?
R-Value is a rating of the material resistance to thermal penetration.
The higher the number the better the protection value. Many circumstances change
the R-Value rating. R-Values change with the different thickness and density of
the polystyrene panel core, various thickness of shotcrete applied to the
interior and exterior as well as fluctuation of ambient temperatures Chart shown
below shows the minimum R-Value Ratings you can expect using Tridipanel. 2lb.
Polystyrene Core will provide an additional 10-12% R-Rating Polyisocyanurate
Core is optional when panels are ordered. 2.5" 1.0 LB Polystyrene Core-R-Value
11.00 2.5" 1.0 LB Polyisocyanurate Core-R-Value 21.00 4.0" 1.0 LB Polystyrene
Core-R-Value 18.00 4.0" 1.0 LB Polyisocyanurate Core-R-Value 33.00 5.0" 1.0 LB
Polystyrene Core-R-Value 23.00 5.0" 1.0 LB Polyisocyanurate Core-R-Value 41.00
Polyisocyanurate is a special order foam core used primarily for refrigeration
purposes or specialty items. R-Values stated is within FTC guidelines.
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VII.) What about thermal value \ heat loss?
The Tridipanel System has been designed with maximum environmental
comfort in mind. A wood structure simply cannot compare to the comfort level
available with the outstanding energy savings created by using the Tridipanel
System. Tridipanel will keep you cooler in summer and warmer in winter. The
modified expanded polystyrene core meets all VA, FHA and HUD thermal
requirements.
Tridipanel offers
valuable savings: (see graphs, fig1 and fig 2)
1.) No wood studs to
transfer or conduct heat or cold through the exterior walls
2.) The incorporation of
minimum (3") density of shotcrete and variable thickness of polystyrene ranging
from 2" through 5" offers an excellent thermal barrier.
3.) Electrical and
plumbing is through the interior side of the Tridipanel, so there are fewer wall
penetrations, which keeps thermal loss at a minimum.
4.) Save 50% to 80% of
heating and cooling costs.
5.) Reduces size and cost
of HVAC System.
Fig 1 - Click Graph to
Enlarge |
Fig. 2 - Click Graph to
Enlarge |
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VIII.) What is the (S.T.C.) Sound Transmission Coefficient?
The S.T.C. (Sound Transfer Coefficient) attenuation is excellent. The
double shell configuration of the concrete plus polystyrene plus concrete
sandwich minimizes sound transmissions. Typical S.T.C. expected is as follows:
3" Concrete (1.5" each side) = [0.1304 x 38] + 43.48 [4.9552] + 43.48 = S.T.C of
48.4352 4" Concrete (2.0" each side) = [0.1304 x 50] + 43.48 [6.52] + 50.00 =
S.T.C. of 50.0000 Calculated from the PCI Pre-cast Manual Note: We are currently
working on a new polystyrene panel, which will have an integrated air pocket
that will greatly improve this rating.
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IX.) What is the fire rating of Tridipanel?
Tridipanel has the following fire-resistance ratings, (Ratings are valid for
fire exposure from either side) Fire-rating is derived from the wire mesh gauge
in combination with concrete thickness. See chart below. The insulation core
Type I polystyrene foam demonstrated a flame-spread index of 25 or less and a
smoke developed rating of 450 or less when tested in accordance with ASTM
-E84.The modified polystyrene core does not contain ozone-damaging
chlorofluorocarbons (CFC's) in the manufacturing process or products. 2.5"
EXP-Core with 1.50" Shotcrete each side = 1.5 Hours 2.5" EXP-Core with 2.00"
Shotcrete each side = 2.0 Hours 2.5" EXP-Core with 3.1/8" Shotcrete each side =
4.0 Hours The fire rating increases with greater quantities of cement applied to
each side. Polystyrene core will not burn.
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X.) How is the Tridipanel secured into the slab?
The rebar is embedded within the concrete slab. The panel is placed over
the rebar, through the open space between the polystyrene core and the wire
mesh. Once set, the rebar is fastened directly to the wire mesh by hand with tie
wire. It is critical the rebar be installed in a straight line so the rebar fits
easily into the cavity between the polystyrene and the wire mesh. It is
important to make sure the rebar is completely exposed so it becomes
monolithically enclosed with the shotcrete or cement application. Should the
building department or engineer require additional tie downs, the polystyrene
core can be removed from the base of the panel. The panel is then set in place
over the required tie-down and cemented in place. Another option for placing the
rebar in the concrete slab is to drill the concrete slab and pour epoxy in the
cavity placing the rebar within its confines. Typically, the spacing of the
rebar is (24") on center.
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XI.) How is a bond beam made with Tridipanel?
A bond beam is used to create large openings, or to strengthen large
areas of ceiling or to help support roof structures. All bond beams created
should be pre approved by a certified engineering firm. Removing the polystyrene
core and installing rebar creates the bond beam. The best method for removing
the polystyrene core is a high-pressure water blaster, it takes only a matter of
minutes. For further information please see instruction manual.
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XII.) How is the electrical and plumbing installed?
The installation of electrical or plumbing is achieved by removing the
polystyrene core to create a cavity that electrical conduit or plumbing piping
may be installed into. The polystyrene is approximately ¾" off the wire mesh so
that you have a space to install these products. If this opening needs to
greater the polystyrene core can be removed with a small keyhole saw or butane
torch. The polystyrene will not burn it will shrink or melt leaving a cavity.
The electrical or plumbing is then installed into the cavity. For further
information please see instruction manual.
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XIII.) How are windows and doors installed?
The window and door openings may be cut out with the use of three primary
tools, a reciprocating saw, a set of 18" bolt cutters or pneumatic cutter, and a
small hand saw to remove the polystyrene. It is recommended that a caulking
sealant compatible with the polystyrene core be used to seal the jamb to the
polystyrene core. For residential construction, wood jambs of treated material
are then fitted into the openings. The windows and/or doors are then fastened to
the treated jambs. For commercial use, pre-finished concrete openings are
created. The windows and doors are then installed into the openings, as they
would be into a typical masonry block structure. For further information please
refer to instruction manual.
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XIV.) How do you build curved or radius walls with Tridipanel?
You can build curved or radius walls by cutting the eleven gauge wires on
one side of the panel. This will allow the panel to bend to the desired shape or
radius. It is very important not to cut through the heavier nine-gauge truss
wire so that wall strength and integrity remain intact.
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XV.) How does Tridipanel hold up under adverse conditions of Hurricanes,
Tornadoes, Earthquakes and Fires?
Tridipanel excelled in rigorous test given by Mother Nature. For the last
ten years, numerous homes have been constructed with the Tridipanel System on
the East Coast, Caribbean and Gulf areas of Mexico and the United States. The
homes were built to withstand hurricane force winds. In Laboratory testing, the
Tridipanels have been tested and will withstand wind loads of 226 miles per
hour. Laboratory testing results available upon request In the southwestern area
of the United States, a two-story Tridipanel research complex jointly funded by
the National Science Foundation, Southern California Edison, Inc., and the
University of California withstood California's worst earthquake in forty years
was struck twice a (6.5) and (6.9) Richter Scale. According to Dr. Philippe
Cohen who resides at the site in the Mojave Desert, the area at one point was
subjected to a continuous shake lasting over a full minute. The structure went
through the quakes with zero structural effects. Complete (Earthquake)
structural testing report from certified engineering firm available on above
upon request. Tridipanel is an ideal building product for structures in dry
adverse climates where fire is always a constant threat. Areas which are heavily
forested, high grass and brush, and other areas in Southern California during
Santa Ana Wind Conditions, and other similar areas where structures may be prone
to fires. We have had numerous fires in Southern California during Santa Ana
Wind Conditions. A structure built with Tridipanel is non- combustible and has a
minimum 1.5-hour fire rating and a higher rating can easily be attained.
Structures built with Tridipanel are virtually fire resistant. Full test report
from certified engineering firm available upon request along with photos.
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XVI.) What is the wind load capacity of Tridipanel?
The brief synopsis which follows, is from the test results report dated
1994 from Dade County, Miami Florida pertaining to the wind load capacity of
Tridipanel. Three typical Tridipanels 4' wide and 10' high with 1 ½" of
shotcrete on each face were installed vertically, side-by-side, on a concrete
slab, several inches in front of a rigid backup wall with space between the
panels and the backup wall. The panels were tested per static-wind load test
(PA202-94 manner of testing). Summary: The specimens tested herein were fully
tested in accordance with the Dade County Building Code Compliance Office
Protocols PA 201-94,PA 202-94 and PA 203-94. No failures occurred to the
specimens nor their fastenings nor anchorage. The products described in this
report comply with SFBC Sections 2309 and 2315. The panels tested at 126 lbs per
Sq. Ft. pressure, which represents over 225mph-wind factor. Please see wind load
chart Exhibit 1.
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XVII.) What are the load bearing capabilities of Tridipanel?
The load bearing weights that a typical Tridipanel wall will support is
amazing. The typical wood frame and metal frame wall cannot compare to
Tridipanel strength. A typical tridipanel with 2.5" polystyrene core using
eleven-gauge wire, 8' in height has been tested at a structural load of over
78,000 lbs. Full load bearing chart available upon request.
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XVIII.) How are various shotcrete or cements applied to the Tridipanel?
The shotcrete is applied either by hand or machine application on both
sides of the panel. This part of the operation is very specialized. We recommend
a licensed Gunnite or Stucco Contractor or a combination of both Contractors for
this part of the operation depending upon the desired finish. For architects
with a special finish in mind we would like to mention that the architectural
molds or metal trim could be incorporated into your design to achieve the
desired finish. A few of the above-mentioned might be fry reglets, point to
point reveals, parting screed etc. The versatility of numerous types of plaster
finishes or stucco finishes will work on interior and/or exterior walls all of
the newly created EIFS systems will also work. Additional products you may apply
are brick, mini-brick, stone, stone facing, tile almost any type of finish your
imagination can conceive will work.
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XIX.) Is the polystyrene waterproof? Is the foam waterproof?
The polystyrene and the foam are one in the same. The polystyrene
core is water-resistant. The ASTM test proved maximum water absorption of (2.5%)
for (1lb density). E.P.S. is an inert, organic material. Polystyrene provides no
nutritive value to plants, animals, or microorganisms. The polystyrene will not
rot and is highly resistant to mildew. Aging has no effect upon the performance
of the polystyrene E.P.S. is able to withstand the abuse of temperature cycling
180° assuring long term performance. Please refer to fire rating for flame
spread information.
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