LOW E Insulation

Is defined as the ability of a given material to radiate heat rather then absorb it. Materials that radiate 100% have an emisssivity of 1.0, whereas materials that radiate zero heat have an emissivity or EM of 0.

Typical arena ceiling materials sucha as; wood, steel, concrete etc., have a high EM rating of approximately 9 thus, radiating about 90% of the heat absorbed mostly from the sun down to the ice surface. It is known, radiant heat travels from a warm surface to a cold surface and has been proven in an ice arena setting that the majority of the heat load comes from the radiant gain from the ceiling as it accepts the radiance of the sun.

The amount of heat that is acceptd by the ice surface is directly decided by the EM rating of the ceiling materials. If we reduce the exposed elements that carry a high emissivity we will reduce the impact on the ice surface and therefore reduce load and energy costs. A common statement and typical use is to allow the central plant to condition the space of an arena or ice shed area. This practise increases electrical load and run times substantially.