Q How do I know if the strength of my design is adequate?
The AAMA TIR-A8-04 technical report outlines the method for analyzing both mechanical crimp-in-place systems using polyamide and chemical poured-in-place systems that utilize polyurethane. The report includes a software program for performing the analysis and is available at www.aamanet.org. And, as always, Technoform Bautec engineering personnel are always available to provide this support, as well.
Q Should I use insulating struts with glue coil?
Typically, glue coil is used only when profiles are powder coated after assembly. Tests have shown that some shear strength is lost when non-glue coil profiles are exposed to extreme heat during the baking of powder paint (360° - 390°F). That’s why we provide insulating struts with or without glue coil to fit your needs.
Q Is the bond between polyamide and the aluminum water-tight?
Yes. As long as the three-step assembly process is properly followed, the bond will be water-tight. Please remember that glue coil is not required to provide a water-tight joint when profiles are properly assembled.
Q What are the advantages of using insulating struts made from glass-reinforced polyamide?
- Glass reinforced polyamide expands and contracts at the same rate as aluminum so there is no differential shrinkage between materials
- Since glass-reinforced polyamide is an engineered plastic, it transfers longitudinal (deadload) and transverse (windload) shear.
- Glass-reinforced polyamide will withstand higher temperatures (above 170°F) that cause many thermal plastics to lose strength in the field.
- Glass-reinforced polyamide is resistant to the vast array of chemicals typically used in the production and cleaning process.
- With a track record going back nearly 30 years, glass-reinforced polyamide is the most proven material used for thermal break throughout the world.
Q Why are two solid insulating struts better than one hollow?
Two struts provide two times more shear strength than a single hollow. What’s more, two struts crimped in place allow the assembly to act as one strong, tubular shape.
Q Where can I get the equipment needed for assembly?
There are several thermal break assembly equipment manufacturers. Click here to see the list.
Q What are the advantages of ordering insulating struts in coils rather than straights?
- Lower shipping costs because the need for heavy wooden boxes or steel stillages is eliminated. Plus, there are no containers to return.
- Reduced inventory and part numbers because pieces can be cut to exact lengths. Since the coils can be up to 1500 feet long, only one part number is needed.
- Easier material handling due to the fact that the coils are only between 30 and 50 lbs. This means one person can handle a coil versus the two people needed to handle straight lengths that can exceed 20 feet.
- Less waste is produced since the coils can be cut to precise lengths.
Q What are the profile limitations of coils?
Although any profile can be provided in straight lengths, only flat and offset profiles can be packaged in coils.
Q If I have aluminum extrusions with a slightly different pocket design, can I use Technoform Bautec articles?
It depends on the pocket design. Please contact Technoform for advice on your specific application.
