Composite panel

Abstract

An insulating panel (1) comprises a first sheet (2), a second sheet (3) with an insulating foam (4) therebetween. The foam may, for example be a polyurethane foam, polyisocyanurate foam or a phenolic foam. The first and second sheets (2, 3) are metal such as steel, for example a galvanised or coated sheet. At least one reinforcing element (20) is provided within the insulating foam (body (4) and extends between the first and second sheets (2, 3). The reinforcing element (20) extends longitudinally along at least part of the length of the panel (1). For enhanced structural strength there are at least two reinforcing elements (20) which are spaced-apart between the side marginal edges of the panel (1). The reinforcing element (20) comprises a first flange (21), a second flange (22) and a web (23) extending between the flanges. The reinforcing element (20) is adapted to interengage with the insulating foam body (4) during manufacture. The element (20) has a plurality of through holes (25) at least in the web (23) thereof to facilitate passage of reacting foam. The web may also have keying features such as ribs (29) or the like. The ribs (29) may be pressed out to enhance the structural strength/stiffness of the elements (27). Similarly, the metal in the region of the holes (25) may be provided with pressed ribs to enhance structural strength.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.