In building insulation and industrial thermal insulation projects, rock wool, as a commonly used inorganic fiber insulation material, is widely used for wall, roof, pipe, and equipment insulation. Based on different molding methods and structural forms, rock wool products are mainly divided into two categories: rock wool boards and rock wool felts. Although their raw materials and basic properties are similar, there are significant differences in structural characteristics, applicable scenarios, and construction methods. Properly distinguishing between these two products helps in more scientific project selection.

Firstly, in terms of product form and structure, rock wool boards have a rigid or semi-rigid board structure with relatively high density, fixed dimensions, and good overall strength and stability. Rock wool felts, on the other hand, are flexible rolls or sheets with a looser fiber arrangement, high flexibility, and the ability to adapt to a certain degree of bending and irregular surfaces. This structural difference determines their main application directions in engineering.

Secondly, in terms of mechanical properties, rock wool boards have advantages. They have higher compressive strength and dimensional stability, making them suitable for external wall insulation, curtain wall fireproof barriers, and areas with load-bearing requirements. Rock wool felt has relatively low mechanical strength, emphasizing flexibility and covering performance, and is generally not used as a load-bearing or structural support.

Third, in terms of construction methods and applicable locations, rock wool boards are suitable for construction scenarios with large areas and flat substrates. After installation, the system has strong overall integrity, which is conducive to forming a stable thermal insulation and fireproof structure. Rock wool felt is more suitable for insulation of pipes, storage tanks, equipment, and irregularly shaped structures. It can be installed by wrapping or covering, which can reduce the number of seams and improve construction adaptability.

Fourth, in terms of thermal insulation and sound absorption performance, the difference between the two is not significant under the same density and thickness conditions. However, in actual engineering, because rock wool boards usually have a higher density, their thermal insulation and sound insulation performance is more stable; rock wool felt, due to its relatively soft structure, has certain advantages in sound absorption and vibration reduction, and is often used in industrial or equipment applications where sound absorption performance is required.

Fifth, from the perspective of system compatibility and durability, rock wool boards are easier to integrate with plastering layers, metal panels, and other structural forms to form a complete thermal insulation system, suitable for long-term fixed installation. Rock wool felt typically requires a metal facing or outer covering during use to enhance its resistance to external forces and its protective capabilities, ensuring long-term performance.

Generally speaking, rock wool boards and rock wool felts share similarities in raw materials and fire resistance, but they differ in structural form, mechanical properties, and applicable working conditions. When selecting materials for a project, rock wool boards or felts should be chosen rationally based on the specific application location, construction conditions, and system requirements. Combining them when necessary can fully leverage the comprehensive advantages of rock wool materials in insulation, fire resistance, and sound absorption. This is also a crucial foundation for achieving system optimization in building insulation projects.