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Ultraslim

Development of ultra-slim, energy-efficient façade and window systems with fiber-reinforced plastic profiles (FRP) in combination with vacuum insulating glass (VIG) for optimum thermal insulation.

Fast facts

  • Organizational unit

  • Category

    • Federal project
  • Funding source

    Federal Institute for Research on Building, Urban Affairs and Spatial Development (BBSR)

  • Funding program

    Research initiative ZukunftBAU

  • Duration

About the project

The aim of the project was to develop a very slim and energy-efficient façade and window profile to accommodate vacuum insulation glass. The project was based on current developments in cost-effective vacuum insulation glazing (VIG) with very good U-values in conjunction with fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP) and an adhesive technology.

In this project, a slim and lightweight window system was developed, which is particularly interesting for the renovation of old buildings due to its lightweight construction. The window frame profiles developed within the project were tested and optimized using finite element methods for their mechanical requirements with regard to weight loads and wind loads. Pultrusion tools were made from the design data and profiles were produced on a pilot plant scale. A final check of the profiles in various tensile and compression tests for defined strength properties resulted in a significant confirmation of the simulated characteristic values. The window frame profile developed in this project therefore meets the specified requirements.

The minimum structural requirements for fire protection were investigated and presented within the project.

In accompanying investigations, standard test specimens were pultruded with different matrix systems and their mechanical properties were determined in tensile, bending and impact strength tests. Fire-retardant pultrusion resins, which are used in rail vehicle construction, for example, resulted in lower strength values. This was taken into account in the simulation of the frame profiles. Demonstrators were produced from the manufactured profiles and assembled into a trade fair module. The ULTRASLIM window system developed in the project was thus presented to the public for the first time at the BAU2013 trade fair in Munich.

The positive response also showed that, contrary to the statements of large window manufacturers, there is indeed a demand for slim VIG windows.


Applicant:
UNI-Bremen, Bremen Fiber Institute
Am Biologischen Garten 2 (IW3)
28359 Bremen

Lead researcher (alternative spokesperson):
Prof. Dipl.-Arch. Armin Rogall & V-Prof. Luis Ocanto (supervisor)
Dipl.-Ing. Ralf Bäumer (processor)

Supervisor at the BBSR:
Guido Hagel

Notes and references

Photo credits

  • Team Ocanto & Rogall | Team Ocanto & Rogall
  • Franz Luthe

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