FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are looking for a tailored solution for your needs, price quotes, placing orders, or you would like to speak with someone in person, please call us directly at 1-800-283-7887 or 1-336-510-4406

General Information

What industries does Phase Change Solutions apply PCMs?

Phase Change Solutions develops, engineers and manufactures BioPCM® solutions for a variety of industries and applications. These include construction, thermal storage, cold chain, food delivery, healthcare, agriculture and custom solutions for specific applications.

What is Latent Heat?

Latent heat is thermal energy which is absorbed or released when a material changes phases.

What is Thermal Mass?

Thermal mass is the ability of a material to absorb and store thermal energy (heat). High-density materials, like concrete, brick or tile, have a high thermal mass and require a great amount of heat to change temperatures. Light weight material, such as timber, has a lower thermal mass. At the target temperature, the BioPCM within a one inch thick ENRG Blanket will store as much heat as an 24 inch thick block of concrete of equal footprint.

Is BioPCM® Thermal Mass?

BioPCM® is “smart” thermal mass. It is capable of absorbing thermal energy at a specific design temperature and releasing it at the same temperature range. This allows it to buffer or control internal building temperatures intelligently. Because the transition temperature of BioPCM® can be controlled, it impacts the energy consumption of an HVAC system by reducing cycling and system run times, thus saving energy.

What is a "Q" value?

“Q” value is the transition temperature of the material stated in Celsius. For example, Q23 has a transition temperature of 23ºC.

What is a "M" value?

“M” value is the thermal storage capacity of the material. It is based on BTU/sq.ft. For example, M27 = 27BTU/sq.ft. of material and M51 = 51BTU/sq.ft. of material.

Application

Where can I install ENRG Blanket®?

ENRG Blanket® can be installed in a variety of locations in a building (Ceilings, Walls, Flooring, Roofs, Etc.). Most are simple and do not require a professional installer. However, if needed, Phase Change Solutions has a network of professional installers to support your installation requirements.

How do I install ENRG Blanket® in a drop ceiling?

In a ducted return with insulation on top of the ceiling tile, ENRG Blanket® should be installed between the insulation and the ceiling tile to interact with the occupied space. Please call our sales department at 800-283-7887 to discuss your application, or you can e-mail us at info@phasechange.com.

How much ENRG Blanket® do I need?

Phase Change Solutions can provide a custom installation plan based on your building’s specific needs. Please call our sales department at 800-283-7887 to discuss your application, or you can e-mail us at info@phasechange.com.

How long does it take to install?

In a typical drop ceiling retrofit, ENRG Blanket® can be installed at a rate of 1,000 sq.ft./hr. by a four person crew with two ladders. Installation in new construction varies with the design of the walls and ceilings.

What is the best way to install ENRG Blanket®?

Phase Change Solutions can provide a custom installation plan based on your building’s specific needs. Please call our sales department at 800-283-7887 to discuss your application, or you can e-mail us at info@phasechange.com.

In a drop ceiling, do I have to cover the entire space?

Most drop ceiling applications require between 65 and 85% coverage. Optimizing the amount of the material requires analysis of the building, weather data and operational characteristics of the HVAC system. We can review your building/space requirements and make a recommendation based on your specific needs.

Performance

Does ENRG Blanket® require any maintenance?

ENRG Blanket® does not need any maintenance. Just install and enjoy the many benefits ENRG Blanket® has to offer.

Does ENRG Blanket® work in a Multi-Story building?

ENRG Blanket® works in all kinds of buildings. Please contact our sales department at 800-283-7883 to discuss your application.

Is there a difference in energy savings between a Plenum and Ducted return?

Based on multiple building tests, there is no difference in performance between ducted and plenum return systems.

Safety

How does ENRG Blanket® react to fire?

ENRG Blanket® Fire Rating – Meets or exceeds ASTM E84, UL 723 and ASTM E800-0 99 standards

How do I service lights and other fixtures after installation?

Since ENRG Blanket® simply lays on your drop ceiling tiles, you only need to move it to the side to perform service or maintenance on fixtures and equipment above the ceiling. Once the service is complete, you carefully reposition the ENRG Blanket® where it was prior to service. Caution should be used when handling the ENRG Blanket® to make sure it is not punctured or damaged.

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