Thermal Strut

Dream: Superior Performing Windows

Structurally superior aluminum windows must employ a thermal barrier between inner and outer surfaces. Conventionally, polyurethane is poured into a hollow portion of the frame.
 

Conventional Technology: Polyurethane


Polyurethane is poured into a cavity in the extrusion and allowed to harden.

The aluminum”bridge” is cut away, leaving a hard polyurethane thermal barrier.

Polyurethane thermal barriers often shrink causing leaky windows.

Problem: Dry Shrinkage

Unfortunately, polyurethane and aluminum have different expansion coefficients. Hard polyurethane insulation can separate from aluminum, allowing air and water to penetrate.
 

AW Solution: Thermal Strut

Thermal struts of glass-reinforced nylon have similar expansion coefficients to aluminum and will not separate over years of seasonal hot-cold cycles. Water and air will not penetrate this superior thermal barrier.


Thermal struts are inserted and permanently crimped in place.

A thermal strut profile begins with two separate extrusions.

Defying industry conventions, Architectural Window was the first company in the world to employ thermal struts in a double-hung aluminum window. This breakthrough revolutionized the window industry.

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Architects must balance longevity, cost, risk and beauty while controlling the effects of temperature, water, wind, acoustics and storm-driven projectiles. Architects collaborate best with manufacturers driven by an equal passion for balance and control.