Thermal resistance

Thermal resistance is a physical property of a material that describes its ability to prevent the passage of heat. It is the opposite of heat conduction. The thermal resistance depends on the material, the thickness and the surface through which the heat flow passes.

The definition of thermal resistance is the temperature difference between two points divided by the heat flow between those points. The unit of thermal resistance is watt per kelvin (W/K). A higher thermal resistance means that the material is better insulating and has a lower ability to penetrate heat.

Thermal resistance is an important factor in the design of insulation and heating systems. Materials with high thermal resistance are suitable for insulation and minimizing heat loss, such as breathable insulation materials, foam or fiberglass. Conversely, materials with low thermal resistance, such as metals, have a higher ability to conduct heat.

In calculations and designs of thermal conductivity and insulation, thermal resistance is taken into account as an important parameter. In practice, thermal resistance is investigated using experimental measurements or calculated using theoretical models and formulas that take into account material properties, thickness and geometry of heat transfer.