Structural Performance

Our SIPs are engineered for exceptional structural performance, racking resistance, and wind loading capabilities, in strict accordance with the test results specified within our BBA certification.

How our SIPs are made

SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels) are an innovative building solution that combines strength, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. They consist of two high-density facings, usually Oriented Strand Board (OSB), bonded to a lightweight cellular foam core. This core, filled with rigid polyurethane (PUR) insulation, creates a strong structural bond between the layers, which is key to their impressive load-bearing capacity.

The unique construction of SIPs enables them to efficiently transfer both vertical and horizontal loads, with the OSB facings securing the foam core and ensuring load distribution to the foundation. This design reduces the need for traditional internal stud framing, streamlining the building process.

Manufactured in carefully controlled factory conditions, SIPs can be customised for a range of applications. Throughout production, we maintain strict quality control measures to ensure consistent performance and high standards, making SIPs an ideal choice for modern, energy-efficient buildings.

Our SIPs conform to

BS 5534 : 2003+A1 : 2010
Code of practice for slating and tiling (including shingles)

BS 5628-3 : 2005 Code of practice for BS EN 338 : 2009
Structural timber — Strength classes

BS EN 594 : 1996
Timber structures – Test methods. Racking strength and stiffness of timber frame wall panels

BS EN 846-6 : 2000
Methods of test for ancillary components for masonry — Determination of tensile and compressive load capacity and load displacement characteristics of wall ties (single end test)

BS EN 1995-1-1 : 2004+A1: 2008 Eurocode 5
Design of timber structures — General — Common rules and rules for buildings

BS EN 1995-1-2 : 2004 Eurocode 5
Design of timber structures — General — Structural fire design

BS EN 1996-2 : 2006 Eurocode 6
Design of masonry structures — Design considerations, selection of materials and execution of masonry the use of masonry — Materials and components, design and workmanship

Versatility and Application of SIPs

SIPs are highly adaptable, with two main applications: they serve as full structural elements and as infill walling for concrete, steel, or engineered timber frames. Regardless of the application, SIPs are designed to meet stringent load-bearing, racking resistance, and wind loading standards, which are certified through the SIPCO BBA accreditation.

Performance Testing and Quality Assurance

To ensure optimal structural performance, SIP panels undergo a series of rigorous tests. These include testing with uniformly distributed loads (UDL) to assess strength and deflection across supports, along with axial loads both centrally and eccentrically placed. Other tests evaluate the impact of racking loads, shear forces, and bending loads on the panel joints. The design of these joints supports potential spans over openings, with adjacent panels providing necessary support.

Structural Integrity and Bending Strength

SIPCO panels consistently demonstrate exceptional bending strength in testing. Our design approach prioritises deflection limits based on the calculations outlined in our Design Guide, assuring that SIPs comfortably meet or exceed the required safety standards. These tests show that the panels are more than capable of handling typical loads, providing confidence in their reliability for construction projects.

Load Distribution and Panel Design

SIPs are also capable of managing localised concentrations of loading, which can be addressed by reinforcing the panel joints with additional timber. However, with precise design detailing, the need for extra reinforcement can often be avoided. The panels’ robust construction ensures that the deflection remains well within acceptable limits while also accommodating higher-than-average loads without compromising safety.

Axial Loading Results

Axial loading tests on SIPCO panels (100mm thick, 2.4m high, and 2.4m wide) have delivered remarkable results. These panels, with a safety factor of 2.0, comfortably support vertical loads of 90 kN/m, well beyond the foundation loading typical for a two-storey house built using conventional building methods.

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