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Hollow and thermal blocks are essential building materials in the UAE construction industry. They offer advantages like reduced weight for structures, improved thermal insulation, and ease of use in masonry construction. While there can be some variation between manufacturers, here’s a breakdown of typical sizes for hollow and thermal blocks in the UAE:
• Hollow Blocks:
Length (L): 400 millimeters (mm) – This is the most common length for hollow blocks, offering good versatility for building walls.
Width (W): Varies between 150 mm, 200 mm, 250 mm, and 300 mm – The width selection depends on the desired wall thickness and structural requirements. Wider blocks are used for thicker load-bearing walls, while narrower ones are suitable for partition walls.
Height (H): Typically 200 mm – This is a standard height for many hollow blocks, providing a good balance between block size and ease of handling.
• Here are some examples of common hollow block sizes in the UAE:
400 x 200 x 200 mm (L x W x H)
400 x 250 x 200 mm
400 x 300 x 200 mm
• Thermal Blocks:
Thermal blocks are a type of hollow blocks specifically designed for improved thermal insulation. They achieve this through features like:
Lightweight aggregate: The concrete mix may incorporate lightweight materials like pumice or expanded clay, reducing thermal conductivity.
Cavities: Similar to hollow blocks, thermal blocks have internal cavities that trap air, further hindering heat transfer.
Polystyrene inserts: Some thermal blocks incorporate inserts made of polystyrene, a very good thermal insulator.
Thermal block sizes in the UAE generally follow the same range as hollow blocks in terms of length and height.
Width (W): 200 mm, 250 mm, or 300 mm (as with hollow blocks)
Insert Thickness: 60 mm, 110 mm, or 160 mm – Thicker inserts provide greater thermal insulation but also increase block width and potentially impact wall thickness.
• Here are some examples of common thermal block sizes in the UAE:
400 x 250 x 200 mm with a 110 mm insert
400 x 300 x 200 mm with a 160 mm insert
• Additional factors to consider:
Block weight: Hollow blocks typically weigh less than thermal blocks due to the absence of insulating inserts. This can be a factor during construction for handling and transportation.
Fire resistance: Both hollow and thermal blocks offer some level of fire resistance. However, specific fire resistance ratings may vary depending on the block type and manufacturer.
Sound insulation: The air cavities in both block types can provide some sound insulation, with thermal blocks potentially offering slightly better performance due to the additional polystyrene insert.
It’s important to consult with engineers, architects, or building material suppliers when choosing block sizes for your construction project. They can advise on the most suitable block type and size based on factors like structural requirements, desired thermal performance, and local building codes.
While this information covers common block sizes, it’s not exhaustive. Manufacturers may offer additional sizes or variations to cater to specific needs. Always check with suppliers for their available block options and specifications.