Compression sleeves are a small component with a significant influence on the thermal performance of brick tie channel systems. Conventional stainless steel tubes create a direct thermal bridge through the wall, increasing heat loss and adversely affecting U-value calculations. Grayson Thermal Compression Sleeves use a high-performance structural composite to dramatically reduce this heat flow while maintaining the required compressive strength.
Engineering Evidence
Thermal engineers have recently undertaken thermal modelling and BRE testing to quantify the effect of compression sleeves on the building envelope. The image below shows the improved thermal performance achieved when a Grayson Thermal Compression Sleeve is incorporated within a brick tie channel system. Compared with a conventional stainless steel compression tube, substantially less heat is transferred through the fixing point, reducing thermal bridging and improving overall building performance.
Key Benefits
· Reduces heat transfer by over 70% compared with stainless steel tubes.
· Improves Ψ-values and overall wall U-values.
· Supports compliance with Approved Document L and the Future Homes Standard 2025.
· Euroclass A2 fire classification (no significant contribution to fire).
· Maintains structural performance while minimising thermal bridging.
Figure 1. Thermal model illustrating the improved thermal performance achieved using a Grayson Thermal Compression Sleeve.
Independent assessment demonstrated that:
· Heat transfer is reduced by over 70% compared with conventional stainless steel compression tubes.
· Heat loss through stainless steel sleeves is approximately three times higher.
· Improved Ψ-values contribute to lower wall U-values.
· Reduced thermal bridging can reduce the insulation required to achieve project targets.
· Higher internal surface temperatures help improve overall envelope performance.
Fire Performance
Thermal breaks are exempt from the non-combustibility requirements of Approved Document B. Nevertheless, Grayson Thermal Compression Sleeves achieve a Euroclass A2 fire classification, meaning they make no significant contribution to fire, providing an additional level of confidence for designers, contractors and clients.
For further information contact our knowledge and experienced experts on 03448 50 40 50.
