Large windows are one of the current trends in construction. Our homes are opening up to the world, which is a challenge for PVC profile systems. In order to ensure the proper strength of the structure, greater rigidity of the window elements is necessary. A new method is used m.in. special glass pasting technology and additional reinforcements.
What calculations are made when designing windows?
One of the necessary steps to perform static calculations when designing windows. The calculation takes into account, first of all, the size of the window and the place of its intended installation. In addition, the surroundings of the building, as well as the terrain on which it is located, are an important issue. Calculations are performed in accordance with EN 1991-1-4, a document that defines region-specific parameters. By including all elements, you can determine the static loads that can interact in a plane perpendicular to the structure. Additional calculations are needed when the window is divided using horizontal elements (rigs) or the structure consists of two separate windows (set on top of each other). In this situation, perform static calculations for elements that carry linear or point loads that run in the window plane. This allows you to select the right materials and solutions that will be used in the production process of a given window. This will ensure that the structure has the appropriate rigidity and can carry the loads determined during the calculation.
What does the ability to move loads through a window depend on?
The rigidity of the structure and its ability to carry loads is mainly influenced by the use of steel reinforcements. They are placed in a specially prepared chamber, located in the window profile. To create a mechanical connection between the reinforcement and the profile, screws with a properly selected spacing are used. The maximum possible window size depends on the shape and thickness of the reinforcement and the dimension of the chamber in which it will be placed. If such dimensions do not meet expectations, you must apply additional elements. The rigidity of the structure and its ability to carry loads greatly affect the performance of the window. They provide m.in. adequate air permeability, water resistance and proper functioning of the equipment. Above all, however, they improve wind load resistance.
How does the strength of profiles increase?
Large windows require a more durable wing profile. In this case, additional reinforcements in the form of flat bars are used. These elements are installed in the glazing chamber. With the help of screws, a mechanical connection is formed between the flats and the reinforcement of the wing. This is also sometimes used in bars (on one or both sides) and in combined windows. Importantly, better rigidity does not go hand in hand with a disturbance in the aesthetics of the structure. However, it adversely affects the thermal parameters of the window. This problem has been alleviated by the development by specialists of technology of pasting glass into the profile of the wing.
Pasting windows – greater rigidity of windows
The windows are pasted into the wing profile to obtain a mechanical connection of the shaft insert to the wing profile around its perimeter. The glazing package forms the arrangement of several panes of glass, which are separated from each other by spacer frames. External sealant is used to mechanically connect the tray. In this way, a disc with certain parameters is formed. The mechanical combination of the shaft insert and the sash provides the structure with high rigidity. In addition, in this case, the loads, derived from the forces resulting from the weight of the sash and the glass, are distributed evenly. Due to the fact that they do not focus on the diagonal supporting wing, many undesirable phenomena can be avoided. These include profile deformation, sash effect, and cracking of windows near load-bearing spacers. This solution therefore ensures that large windows do not lose their properties over time. It is also worth noting that pasting protects the glass from being pushed out. This provides an additional way to protect the structure from burglary.
The use of static profiles – a way to large windows
It can happen that the dimensions of the window allow it to be made in a single frame and all the possibilities that increase the rigidity of the structure have already been used, and the desired parameters have still not been reached. In this case, static profiles are used in bolts or bars, which are permanently combined with the reinforced element. In addition, both ends of the static profile are attached to the wall of the building. Thanks to this, it acts as an additional pole, which transmits loads from the window to the wall of the building and allows the thermal movements of the structure. Static profiles, depending on the conditions, can be mounted from the outside or inside of the window.
What are static connectors used for?
If the dimensions of the window do not allow it to be executed in one frame, it is divided into several windows in separate frames. They are then combined with static fasteners. Typically, these are flat-panel elements that have a shaped head protruding beyond the frame profile. This section is covered with a window-colored cap. One of the static connector variants is the expansion joint. It is used in cascading construction. It allows the thermal movements of the structure in the window plane, as well as provides greater rigidity of the connection of window frames. Similar to static profiles, static and expansion joints must be mechanically connected to the building wall.
Ms’s proprietary solutions more than WINDOWS
In MS more than WINDOWS uses not only the capabilities of profile systems and modern technologies, but also solutions created by specialists from the technology department. Engineers have developed a new reinforcement shape for the narrowest wing of the bluEvolution 73 system. Thanks to it, as well as the methods presented earlier, extremely slim SliMwindows were created. The MSline+ system introduces patented closed frame reinforcement, laser-welded. This resulted in greater rigidity of the frame and stability of the connection of the window to the wall (backing of anchoring elements on two walls of steel reinforcement). In addition, this solution provides a solid basis for anti-balance hooks. Therefore, the windows’ resistance to ins burglary increases. It is worth bearing in mind that the stability of the frame favorably affects the stability of the wing.
