May 2, 2008—Indalex Ltd. has completed installation of new technology to manufacture a thermal break system that uses warm edge polyamide insulating glass spacers and thermal insulating struts to provide a structural thermal break for aluminum windows, doors, curtain wall and storefronts.
An alternative to the fill and debridge process in which resin is injected into extruded aluminum parts machined to form a thermal break, the strut and spacer system is more thermally efficient, says the company. Separating aluminum frame profiles with polyamide spacers reduces heat transfer by 40 to 70 percent, according to Indalex.
The composition of the struts creates an effective thermal barrier that helps them insulate 500 times better than aluminum, says the company. The struts separate the aluminum in fenestration products, lowering conductivity and reducing thermal transfer and U-factors while increasing condensation resistance. The energy savings and condensation reduction allow a reduction in HVAC system size and emissions.
The system also offers improved structural performance and durability, says Indalex. The bond between the strut and the extruded aluminum is a mechanical connection, allowing it to carry loads necessary to meet building code requirements.
The system also resists heat distortion and stands up to most of the chemicals used in the construction industry. Fenestration products using the system have passed numerous independent air, water, structural, blast resistance and thermal performance tests, allowing the system to be certified to AAMA and ASTM standards.
For more information visit Indalex.
