by Brianna Crandall — October 26, 2015—Insulated metal panel innovator Metl-Span has introduced the FRP CleanSeam insulated metal panel wall and ceiling system, engineered to address the sweeping reforms created by the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Food Safety Modernization Act of 2011.
FRP CleanSeam enables wall and ceiling panels to join almost seamlessly, preventing growth of mold or mildew.
This “revolutionary” FRP CleanSeam insulated panel system creates a virtually seamless wall and ceiling by combining fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) panel faces with a unique flush-surface hard joint that has no voids and is mold, mildew and impact resistant and extremely durable. The FRP panel joints are permanently sealed with a specially formulated two-part caulking compound that bonds the adjacent FRP surfaces together.
Panel joints and trim at wall and ceiling junctures in food processing rooms are typically sealed with silicone caulk to prevent moisture migration into the panels, which can lead to unsanitary conditions and become a major contributor to microbial growth, explains Metl-Span.
These typical panels and joints are subjected to rigorous wash-down regimens that include the use of high-pressure spray, hot water and harsh chemicals. Before long, the silicone caulk is washed out or badly degraded and must be replaced in order to prevent intrusion of water into the panel. This can rapidly lead to poor hygienic conditions, points out the company.
In contrast, the FRP CleanSeam panel system eliminates the constant aggressive maintenance that quickly deteriorates traditional silicone- and butyl-caulked joints. CleanSeam panels are engineered to be corrosion free and to provide a virtually seamless surface, and are USDA and FSIS compliant.
According to Metl-Span, CleanSeam has been fully tested and has passed the rigorous testing standard of ASTM-E84 for flame spread and smoke development, is labeled by a certified testing agency, and meets IBC code requirements.
A brochure for FRP CleanSeam is available on the company’s Web site.
