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Window manufacturers have new design options in plastic composites which improve insulation properties in window structures
Popularly known as fibreglass, plastic composites are increasingly being used to prevent thermal bridges in windowsills and frames to reduce heat loss in dwellings.
Heat used to escape through the glass in windows. However, glass has now been improved so much that focus has switched to frames and sills which are the major thermal bridges in dwellings, and which also cause condensation on windows.
Fiberline Composites is experiencing rising interest in its plastic composite profiles which it supplies to European manufacturers of window frames and facades, says Peter Kidmose, Technical Solutions Manager.
"Our profiles are used to improve total window U-value. Manufacturers of windows and doors are focusing more and more on heat loss through window frames. And forthcoming legislation in several countries will require reductions in heat loss from dwellings into surrounding environments. Nearly half the heat loss from dwellings takes place through doors and windows," Peter Kidmose says.
Since plastic composites also have good strength and stiffness properties, the material can be used to provide strength, as well as to manufacture narrower frames which are more attractive to the eye and allow more light to enter rooms.
"Plastic composites give manufacturers more options. The material can be used for the actual frame and then painted any colour. Or the window frame can be built of plastic composites and then covered with mouldings of wood or aluminium on the outside," says Peter Kidmose.
Fiberline Composites produces profiles in countless ways to meet the needs of the individual window manufacturer. This means that weatherstrips and other features can be incorporated to adapt profiles to the customer's windows, while also providing a rational production process.
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