A steel wall stud that improves thermal performance within wall systems over traditional steel studs has significantly improved the R-values based on the results of several tests conducted at Oak Ridge National Laboratory's Buildings Technology Center. During an era of rising energy and lumber costs, Engineering Technology Consultants of Marysville, Wash., tested the Insul-Stud at the ORNL user center in temperatures of 50 degrees F and 100 degrees F, determining an R-value of 12.5, which is a significant improvement over the 8.15 R-value that was determined through identical testing on a conventional steel stud. The Insul-Stud was also found to demonstrate improved acoustic insulating properties, preventing wall transmitted vibrations or sounds that are heard with a conventional steel stud. The Insul-Stud's design minimizes and disrupts heat flow horizontally and vertically, which also creates the sound dampening qualities. Testing continues regarding the Insul-Stud's resistance to hurricanes and seismic activity. This project is funded under DOE's Work for Others program.
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