Thermal Insulation Values and Temperature Ratings for Sleeping Bags

Property:
Resistance to dry heat transfer (insulation value) provided by sleeping bags or sleeping bag systems

Method:
ASTM F 1720 "Standard Test Method for Measuring the Thermal Insulation of Sleeping Bags Using a Heated Manikin"
We also test according to military specifications.

Instrument:
Thermal manikin on a cot in environmental chamber

Specimen number and size:
1 or 3 sleeping bags (auxiliary products like clothing, ground pad, etc. may be tested as part of a bag system; IER has these, or a company may provide them)

Cost:
$550 for 3 replications in a row on one sleeping bag; $650 for replications on 3 identical bag samples of the same type

Temperature Ratings:
Heat transfer models are used with the insulation value to determine the lowest temperature for comfort for 8 hours of sleep. No additional charge for these calculations.

Option #1: bag tested alone

Option #2: bag system tested with clothing, pad, etc.

©2011 Institute for Environmental Research