Vermiculite Insulation in Kenya
Olinc Industrial Ltd supplies and distributes high-quality vermiculite insulation in Kenya, trusted by contractors, industries, and engineers for its superior thermal performance, fire resistance, and lightweight structure.
Our expanded vermiculite is ideal for use in refractory insulation, high-temperature furnaces, building fireproofing, and lightweight concrete applications. It is eco-friendly, durable, non-toxic, and cost-effective, making it one of the most versatile insulation materials available in the market today.
What is Vermiculite Insulation?
Vermiculite insulation is made from a naturally occurring mineral known as hydrated magnesium–aluminum–iron silicate. When heated to around 900–1000°C, it expands up to 30 times its original volume, forming lightweight, porous granules with exceptional thermal and acoustic insulation properties.
Because of its fireproof, lightweight, and non-reactive nature, vermiculite is used widely in construction, industrial furnaces, boilers, and fireproofing systems throughout Kenya.
Vermiculite Insulation Properties
Vermiculite’s insulating power comes from its layered, air-trapping structure. It is a non-combustible material that performs well under both high and low temperatures.
| Property | Typical Value | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Thermal Conductivity | 0.06 – 0.12 W/m·K | Excellent heat resistance |
| Maximum Service Temperature | Up to 1100°C | Ideal for furnaces and refractory use |
| Bulk Density | 60 – 120 kg/m³ | Lightweight for easy handling |
| Fire Resistance | Class A | Non-combustible and fire-safe |
| pH Level | 6.5 – 7.5 | Neutral, chemically stable |
| Acoustic Absorption | High | Reduces noise transmission |
| Moisture Absorption | Excellent | Resists condensation and mold growth |
This combination of properties makes vermiculite insulation one of the best choices for high-performance heat and fire protection applications in Kenya.
Applications of Vermiculite Insulation in Kenya
Vermiculite insulation serves multiple purposes across industrial, commercial, and domestic sectors.
Refractory and Furnace Insulation
- Used as a lightweight filler or lining material for industrial furnaces, foundries, kilns, and boilers.
- Withstands temperatures up to 1100°C
- Prevents heat loss and reduces energy consumption
Can be used in refractory bricks, castable linings, and insulation boards
Building and Roof Insulation
Vermiculite is mixed with cement or plaster to form lightweight, fireproof insulation layers in walls, ceilings, and roofs.
- Keeps buildings cooler in hot conditions
- Reduces heat transfer through concrete
Improves energy efficiency and comfort
Fireproofing Material
Because it is non-combustible, vermiculite is a key ingredient in fireproof plasters, coatings, and spray insulation systems.
- Used in fire doors, safes, chimney linings, and steel structures
- Provides a protective barrier against flames and heat spread
- Cold Room & Refrigeration Systems
Expanded vermiculite is used in cold storage rooms, chillers, and refrigeration panels for insulation and condensation control.
Acoustic and Soundproofing Applications
Its porous structure allows vermiculite to absorb sound waves, reducing echo and improving acoustics in auditoriums, studios, and machinery rooms.
- Lightweight Concrete Production
When mixed with cement and water, vermiculite forms lightweight insulating concrete used in:
- Roof slabs
- Thermal insulation screeds
- Floor underlays and cavity fills
Advantages of Vermiculite Insulation
- High Thermal Resistance
Vermiculite’s air-filled structure minimizes heat conduction, allowing it to perform efficiently at very high temperatures without breakdown.
- Fireproof and Non-Combustible
Unlike foam or fiber insulation, vermiculite does not burn or emit toxic gases — making it ideal for fire-rated buildings and industrial furnaces.
- Lightweight and Easy to Handle
Its low bulk density makes vermiculite easy to transport, mix, and install, even in large-scale projects.
- Moisture & Corrosion Resistant
Vermiculite is chemically inert and resists mold, rust, and decay, making it suitable for humid or coastal environments.
- Excellent Sound Absorption
Provides both thermal and acoustic insulation, reducing noise transmission between rooms and machinery areas.
- Energy Efficient
By reducing heat loss, vermiculite insulation helps cut down on fuel and power costs, improving operational efficiency in factories and buildings.
- Environmentally Friendly
Vermiculite is a natural, non-toxic mineral that does not emit fumes or microfibers — a safe and sustainable choice for modern construction.
How Vermiculite Insulation Compares with Other Insulation Materials
| Feature | Vermiculite | Perlite | Fiberglass | Mineral Wool |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thermal Conductivity | Excellent | Good | Moderate | Excellent |
| Fire Resistance | Non-combustible | Limited | High | High |
| Weight | Very Light | Light | Medium | Medium |
| Moisture Resistance | High | Moderate | Low | Moderate |
| Acoustic Insulation | Very Good | Fair | Good | Good |
| Maximum Service Temp. | 1100°C | 900°C | 600°C | 1000°C |
| Eco-friendliness | 100% Natural | Natural | Synthetic | Synthetic |
| Cost Efficiency | High | Medium | Medium | Medium |
✅ Verdict: Vermiculite outperforms most alternatives in thermal resistance, fire safety, durability, and environmental friendliness, making it the best all-round insulation choice for many Kenyan industries.
How Vermiculite Insulation Is Used
Vermiculite can be applied in several ways depending on the project:
- Loose-fill insulation: Poured into wall cavities, roofs, or chimneys.
- Vermiculite-cement mix: For floor screeds, roof slabs, and lightweight concrete.
- Fireproof plaster: Applied directly onto walls and ceilings.
- Refractory fill: Used behind furnaces, ovens, and boilers to contain heat.
Mixing ratios vary depending on desired strength or insulation level, and Olinc Industrial Ltd provides technical guidance for each use case.
Grades of Vermiculite Insulation
| Grade | Texture | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Fine | Smooth granules | Fireproof plaster, thin wall insulation |
| Medium | Balanced texture | General insulation, concrete mixing |
| Coarse | Large granules | Furnace linings, roof and floor fill |
Packaging and Supply
- Available in 25kg and 50kg bags
- Bulk quantities for industrial and construction projects
- Delivered across Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret, Nakuru, and East Africa
Olinc Industrial Ltd ensures consistent quality, fast delivery, and expert technical support.
Why Choose Olinc Industrial Ltd
- Kenya’s trusted supplier of industrial and building insulation materials
- Locally stocked vermiculite for immediate delivery
- Bulk and retail supply options
- Technical advice on insulation ratios and applications
- Proven reliability across construction, manufacturing, and energy sectors
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What temperature can vermiculite insulation withstand?
Vermiculite can withstand continuous temperatures of up to 1100°C, making it ideal for refractory and high-temperature applications.
- Is vermiculite safe to use?
Yes. Modern vermiculite used by Olinc Industrial Ltd is 100% asbestos-free, non-toxic, and safe for residential and industrial use.
- How does vermiculite compare to fiberglass insulation?
Vermiculite is fireproof, non-irritant, and more durable in high-temperature environments, whereas fiberglass may degrade above 600°C.
- Can vermiculite be mixed with cement?
Yes. Mixing vermiculite with cement creates lightweight insulating concrete that offers both strength and thermal resistance.
- Where can I buy vermiculite insulation in Kenya?
You can buy directly from Olinc Industrial Ltd — Kenya’s leading supplier of thermal and refractory insulation materials.
+254 722 830 970 | sales@olincindustrial.com
Contact Us
Olinc Industrial Ltd
Nairobi, Kenya
+254 722 830 970