Annotations

A-01-02 Aluminium SG unitised curtain wall system

General information: The aluminium SG unitised curtain wall system is applied as a structural glazing façade, in which glass panels are fixed using silicone joints without visible external aluminium pressure plates. The system provides a modern architectural appearance of a “continuous glass façade” and is used for commercial and public buildings.

Energy / Thermal considerations: In accordance with BS EN 13830 and BS EN ISO 10077, the system must ensure a low thermal transmittance (U-value) through the use of energy-efficient insulating glass units and integrated thermal breaks in the aluminium profiles. The design is intended to minimise heat loss and improve solar control performance, in line with building energy efficiency requirements.

Technical considerations: In accordance with BS EN 13830, the façade system must provide resistance to wind loads, airtightness (BS EN 12152) and watertightness (BS EN 12154), as well as sufficient structural strength of the adhesive joints. Structural glazing silicones must comply with BS EN 13022, ensuring reliable adhesion and durability during service life.

Fire safety considerations: According to BS EN 13501-1, aluminium profiles and insulating glass units must achieve a reaction to fire classification of at least A2-s1,d0. Structural silicone joints and sealing materials are selected with consideration of fire resistance and low smoke emission. To enhance fire safety, the façade may be equipped with fire-resistant inserts and barriers in accordance with BS EN 1364.

Design life: Expected design life: 30 years according to BS EN 13830. Provided correct design, use of certified materials, and regular maintenance, the system ensures durability and operational reliability throughout its service life.

Testing regime: In accordance with BS EN 13830, BS EN 12152, and BS EN 12154, the system must undergo testing for air permeability, water tightness, and resistance to wind loads. Additional testing is carried out in accordance with BS EN 14019 for glass impact resistance, and the structural bonding of glass to profiles is verified in accordance with BS EN 13022 for durability and adhesive joint strength.

A-09-03 Aluminium louvre system

General Information: The aluminium louvre system is used in façade and ventilation solutions to protect buildings from direct solar radiation, regulate airflow, and provide architectural expression. It may be installed as both a decorative and functional element of curtain wall façades or window openings.

Energy / Thermal Considerations: The louvre system reduces thermal loads on the building by shielding it from solar radiation, thereby improving energy efficiency and reducing the demand for air conditioning. It complies with BS EN 14501 (Blinds and shutters – Thermal and visual comfort) and BS EN ISO 10077 with regard to the assessment of thermal performance in building envelopes.

Technical Considerations: Louvre systems must provide high rigidity, resistance to wind and operational loads, as well as corrosion resistance. Extruded aluminium profiles must comply with BS EN 755 and BS EN 12020, while protective coatings must meet BS EN 12206 (powder coating) or BS EN 12373 (anodising). The system must ensure durable connections and ease of maintenance.

Fire Safety Considerations: Aluminium, as a material, is classified as A1 according to BS EN 13501-1, meaning it is non-combustible. Coatings (painted or anodised) must also be tested as part of the system. Louvre constructions do not contribute to fire spread and may be used in areas with higher fire safety requirements.

Design Life: The expected service life of the A-09-03 Aluminium Louvre System is at least 30 years, provided proper design and operation, in accordance with BS EN 1999-1-1 (Eurocode 9: Design of aluminium structures).

Testing Regime: The system must be tested for wind load resistance and weathering performance (BS EN 1991-1-4, BS EN ISO 9227), coating corrosion resistance (BS EN 12206), and fire classification in accordance with BS EN 13501-1. Additional tests may include BS EN 13120 (Internal blinds – Performance requirements).

C-01-05 Aluminium support bracket system

General Information: The aluminium support bracket system is used in ventilated façade systems with aluminium cladding for fixing and transferring loads from cladding panels to the building’s load-bearing structure. The system ensures stability, accurate positioning, and adjustment capability during installation.

Energy / Thermal Considerations: The fixing system must take into account the thermal expansion of aluminium components and their interaction with insulation, avoiding significant thermal bridging. Thermal breaks or insulating pads are applied to improve thermal performance in accordance with BS EN ISO 6946 and BS EN ISO 10211 (Thermal bridges in building construction).

Technical Considerations: Brackets and supporting profiles must have sufficient strength to resist wind and service loads in accordance with BS EN 1999-1-1 (Eurocode 9: Design of aluminium structures). Components must be manufactured from extruded aluminium in compliance with BS EN 755 and BS EN 12020. The system must be resistant to corrosion and weathering, with protective finishes meeting BS EN 12206 (powder coating) or BS EN 12373 (anodising).

Fire Safety Considerations: Aluminium is classified as A1 under BS EN 13501-1 and is a non-combustible material. For façade applications, the fire performance of insulating pads and compatibility with cladding materials must be considered. The fixing system must not contribute to fire spread and must be tested as part of the façade assembly in accordance with BS EN 13501-2 and BS 8414 (Fire performance of external cladding systems).

Design Life: The expected service life of the aluminium support bracket system is at least 30 years when correctly installed and maintained, in compliance with BS EN 1999-1-1 and manufacturer guidance for façade systems.

Testing Regime: The system must be tested for mechanical strength and connection durability (BS EN 13144), corrosion resistance (BS EN ISO 9227), fire performance of façade systems (BS 8414, BS EN 13501-1/2), as well as climatic resistance under heating and cooling cycles.

C-05-01 Aluminium support bracket

General Information: An aluminium support bracket is a load-bearing component designed to connect façade systems (e.g. ventilated rainscreen or stick curtain wall systems) to the building’s primary structural frame. The bracket transfers both static and wind loads from the façade to the structural substrate and provides the necessary stand-off distance between the cladding and the building envelope.

Energy / Thermal Considerations: Aluminium brackets act as potential thermal bridges; therefore, reducing heat transfer through fixing points is essential. This can be achieved by incorporating thermal breaks, low-conductivity pads, or optimising the quantity and arrangement of metallic connections. Thermal performance should be assessed in accordance with BS EN ISO 10211 and BS EN ISO 6946. Proper insulation detailing around the bracket is critical to prevent condensation and minimise thermal losses.

Technical Considerations: Brackets must have adequate load-bearing capacity, corrosion resistance, and geometric precision. They should comply with BS EN 1090 (execution of aluminium and steel structures) and BS EN 515/573-3 (mechanical properties of aluminium alloys). Particular attention must be paid to shear and bending strength, especially at anchorage points and during load transfer to fixing elements. Resistance to fatigue and cyclic loading is also important, particularly in areas exposed to high wind pressures.

Fire Safety Considerations: Aluminium brackets are classified as non-combustible components. However, their mechanical strength significantly decreases at elevated temperatures (typically above 300–400 °C). While brackets themselves are not usually classified under BS EN 13501-1, when installed in façade systems on buildings exceeding 18 metres in height, additional fire protection measures may be required to prevent flame spread through fixing zones. Their use must be assessed as part of complete façade fire performance tests such as BS 8414 and evaluations under BR 135.

Design Life: The expected service life of aluminium support brackets is at least 30 years, in accordance with BS EN 1999 (Eurocode 9 — Design of aluminium structures), assuming protection from contact corrosion and compliance with prescribed load and environmental conditions. Anodised or powder-coated finishes further enhance corrosion resistance.

Testing Regime: Testing includes both static and dynamic load assessments according to BS EN 1090-3 and BS EN ISO 6892-1 (tensile testing of metallic materials). Corrosion resistance is evaluated using salt spray testing (BS EN ISO 9227) and environmental durability standards such as BS EN ISO 12944. Fire resistance is verified as part of full-scale façade system testing to BS 8414, while thermal performance at bracket interfaces is assessed per BS EN ISO 10211.

C-06-02 Stainless steel L-profile

General Information: The stainless steel L-profile is used in stone cladding systems for fixing and supporting natural or artificial stone panels. The element ensures accurate positioning, load transfer to the load-bearing structure, and long-term stability of the cladding during service life.

Energy / Thermal Considerations: Stainless steel L-brackets may create thermal bridges when penetrating through insulation layers. To minimise heat loss, thermal breaks or insulating pads are used. Thermal performance requirements are defined in BS EN ISO 6946 and BS EN ISO 10211 (Thermal bridges in building construction).

Technical Considerations: The element must provide high load-bearing capacity and resistance to bending and shear under the weight of stone panels and wind loads. Compliance is required with BS EN 1993-1-1 (Eurocode 3: Design of steel structures) and BS EN 10088 (Stainless steels – Technical delivery conditions). Stainless steel ensures corrosion resistance under external exposure, including aggressive environments.

Fire Safety Considerations: Stainless steel is classified as A1 under BS EN 13501-1 and is a non-combustible material. The L-profile does not contribute to fire spread and retains load-bearing capacity during fire exposure in accordance with BS EN 1993-1-2 (Structural fire design).

Design Life: The expected service life of the stainless steel L-profile is at least 50 years under external exposure, in compliance with BS EN 1993 and BS EN 10088, considering the corrosion resistance of stainless steel.

Testing Regime: Elements must be tested for mechanical strength and connection durability (BS EN 13144), corrosion resistance (BS EN ISO 9227), and fire performance as part of stone cladding systems in accordance with BS EN 13501-1/2 and BS 8414.

C-12-01 Aluminium clip

General Information: The aluminium clip is used in zinc cladding systems to fix panels to supporting brackets. It provides secure attachment, accommodates thermal movement of the zinc, and enables aesthetically concealed fixing of the cladding.

Energy / Thermal Considerations: The element is not an insulating component but must be compatible with the curtain wall system and avoid creating significant thermal bridges. In combination with pads or thermal breaks, it can contribute to improved energy performance. Requirements are defined in BS EN ISO 6946 and BS EN ISO 10211 (Thermal bridges in building construction).

Technical Considerations: Clips must have sufficient strength to retain zinc panels under wind and operational loads. Extruded or pressed aluminium should comply with BS EN 755 and BS EN 12020. Surface treatment must provide corrosion resistance in contact with zinc, in accordance with BS EN 12206 (powder coating) or anodising per BS EN 12373.

Fire Safety Considerations: Aluminium is a non-combustible material, classified as A1 under BS EN 13501-1. When used within a system incorporating zinc panels and insulation, the overall façade system’s fire performance must be verified in accordance with BS EN 13501-2 and BS 8414.

Design Life: The expected service life of the aluminium clip is at least 30 years as part of the façade system, provided correct design and corrosion protection are implemented, in accordance with BS EN 1999-1-1 (Eurocode 9: Design of aluminium structures).

Testing Regime: Elements must be tested for mechanical strength (BS EN 13144), corrosion resistance (BS EN ISO 9227), durability of connections (BS EN 755), and fire performance as part of the façade system in accordance with BS EN 13501-1/2 and BS 8414.

D-01-01 Aluminium Support Bracket, Fixed Point

General Information: The aluminium support bracket, designated as a fixed point for stick curtain wall systems, is employed for the rigid attachment of mullions to the primary loadbearing structure of a building. This component ensures the structural anchoring of the façade system, transmitting both vertical and horizontal loads to the structural frame.

Energy / Thermal Considerations: Although aluminium brackets do not directly influence thermal transmittance, their installation must incorporate thermal separation between the façade assembly and the loadbearing wall. In accordance with BS EN 13830, the use of thermal break pads or insulating inserts may be specified to minimise thermal bridging at anchorage points.

Technical Considerations: Brackets must comply with the mechanical performance requirements of BS EN 1999 (Eurocode 9: Design of aluminium structures) and be engineered to accommodate both permanent and variable actions, including façade self-weight, wind loads, and thermal movement. Fixed points shall provide a rigid restraint to mullions with no allowance for movement, in contrast to sliding or floating points, and must possess adequate loadbearing capacity as validated through structural analysis and performance testing. The material shall exhibit resistance to corrosion under external environmental conditions, typically through anodising or polyester powder coating.

Fire Safety Considerations: Aluminium support brackets are generally classified as non-combustible materials, potentially achieving Euroclass A1 in accordance with BS EN 13501-1. However, any associated components such as thermal break elements or gaskets must also meet relevant fire performance requirements, with classification not lower than A2-s1,d0 when assessed as part of the overall façade assembly.

Design Life: The anticipated service life of aluminium support brackets is a minimum of 30 years, subject to appropriate installation and environmental conditions, in line with BS EN 13830 and manufacturer recommendations.

Testing Regime: Testing may include verification of loadbearing capacity and deformation behaviour in accordance with BS EN 14609, which specifies test methods for structural components.

D-01-02 Aluminium Support Bracket, Sliding Point

General Information: The aluminium support bracket, functioning as a sliding point within stick curtain wall systems, is designed to provide flexible anchorage of mullions to the building's structural frame. Unlike fixed points, sliding connections accommodate thermal expansion and movement of the façade, thereby preventing deformation and potential damage to the system.

Energy / Thermal Considerations: As with fixed brackets, sliding point components are not direct thermal insulators. However, in accordance with BS EN 13830, façade system design must aim to minimise thermal bridging. To achieve this, thermal insulating pads may be installed between the bracket and the structural substrate.

Technical Considerations: Sliding brackets must reliably support vertical loads from the façade elements while allowing for horizontal displacement within a single plane. In accordance with BS EN 1999 (Eurocode 9: Design of aluminium structures), the bracket assembly shall be engineered to resist all relevant loads, while permitting defined movements. Adequate strength, stiffness, and resistance to displacement in unintended directions are essential. All materials used must demonstrate corrosion resistance suitable for external use and comply with BS EN 755 and BS EN 485 standards for aluminium alloys.

Fire Safety Considerations: Aluminium brackets are generally considered non-combustible and may achieve a Euroclass A1 rating as per BS EN 13501-1. Any supplementary materials used at the sliding connection—such as pads, insulators, or washers—must also be tested and classified for fire resistance to at least A2-s1,d0, if incorporated as part of the external wall build-up.

Design Life: The expected design life of sliding aluminium brackets is a minimum of 30 years, in accordance with the performance requirements for façade systems set out in BS EN 13830.

Testing Regime: Testing should verify load resistance and the operational functionality of the sliding mechanism, in line with BS EN 14609 and the broader system testing framework of BS EN 13830.

E-08-01 Stainless steel screw (panel to structure)

General Information: The stainless steel screw is used to fix façade panels or cladding elements to the building’s structural frame. It provides reliable anchorage, durability, and long-term stability of the façade system during service.

Energy / Thermal Considerations: Stainless steel fasteners have high thermal conductivity and can create local thermal bridges. To minimise heat loss, special pads or thermal breaks are used. Thermal performance requirements and the mitigation of thermal bridging are defined in BS EN ISO 6946 and BS EN ISO 10211.

Technical Considerations: Screws must provide adequate mechanical strength and resistance to shear, pull-out, and fatigue loads. Compliance is ensured according to BS EN ISO 3506 (Mechanical properties of corrosion-resistant stainless steel fasteners). For construction use, A2 or A4 stainless steel grades are recommended depending on environmental aggressiveness. Installation must follow BS EN 1993-1-8 (Eurocode 3: Design of steel structures – Joints).

Fire Safety Considerations: Stainless steel is classified as A1 under BS EN 13501-1 and is non-combustible. During fire, screws retain mechanical strength up to temperatures defined in BS EN 1993-1-2 (Structural fire design). In façade systems, fire performance is verified according to BS EN 13501-2 and BS 8414.

Design Life: The expected service life of stainless steel screws is at least 30 years, provided the appropriate steel grade is selected (e.g., A4 for external façades in aggressive environments) and installation is correctly performed, in accordance with BS EN ISO 3506 and BS EN 1993.

Testing Regime: Screws must be tested for mechanical strength and durability (BS EN ISO 3506), corrosion resistance (BS EN ISO 9227), and the fire performance of the overall façade system (BS EN 13501-1/2 and BS 8414).

G-02-01 Weather seal membrane

General Information: The weather seal membrane is a waterproof and airtight layer used in façade and window systems to protect joints and interfaces from moisture, air, and dust ingress. It is typically applied between structural components of the building envelope (e.g. between the window frame and the wall) to provide long-lasting airtight and watertight sealing.

Energy / Thermal Considerations: The membrane contributes to the required levels of air and vapour tightness in façade systems, enhancing the building's overall energy performance by reducing infiltration-related heat loss. It must comply with BS EN 12114 (air permeability of building joints) and BS EN 13984 (vapour control layers), ensuring compatibility with the insulation system and maintaining overall airtightness. Effective vapour control and sealing are essential to meeting the thermal performance criteria outlined in BS EN ISO 6946.

Technical Considerations: The membrane must exhibit high elasticity, durability, water resistance, and the ability to maintain its mechanical integrity under joint movement and deformation. In accordance with BS EN 13984 and BS EN 13859-2 (waterproofing membranes for walls and roofs), the membrane must be resistant to UV radiation, weathering, and temperature fluctuations. Compatibility with commonly used adhesives and sealants in façade assemblies is also essential.

Fire Safety Considerations: Weather seal membranes are typically classified as Class E under BS EN 13501-1. Their use is generally permitted in buildings under 18 metres in height, in line with current façade fire safety guidance and regulations. For buildings exceeding this height, membranes with a higher fire resistance classification are required.

Design Life: The expected service life of the membrane is approximately 25–30 years, provided it is correctly installed and protected from mechanical damage and prolonged UV exposure. Long-term durability and performance are supported by accelerated ageing and climate resistance testing as per BS EN 1296 and BS EN 13859-2.

Testing Regime: The membrane should be tested in accordance with the following standards:

• BS EN 13859-2 – mechanical strength and water resistance;

• BS EN 1928 – watertightness testing;

• BS EN 12114 – air permeability performance;

• BS EN 1296 – artificial ageing;

• BS EN 13501-1 – fire classification (typically Class E).

G-04-01 Mineral wool insulation (for external application) (k ≤ 0.035 W/mK)

General Information: Mineral wool insulation (for wall) is used in external and internal building envelopes to provide thermal, acoustic and fire insulation. Installed in multi-layer walls, façade systems or framed partitions as a non-combustible insulation material.

Energy/Thermal Considerations: Mineral wool features low thermal conductivity (λ ≈ 0.032-0.040 W/m·K), complying with BS EN 13162 - the standard for thermal insulation products for buildings. It effectively reduces heat loss and helps building envelopes meet energy efficiency requirements (e.g. BS EN ISO 6946). Insulation thickness is selected based on required U-value.

Technical Considerations: According to BS EN 13162, mineral wool must maintain dimensional stability, moisture resistance, compressive strength (when used in rainscreen systems), and long-term durability. The material must retain its insulating properties under humid conditions. For walls, compliance with strength classes and dimensional stability under temperature fluctuations is essential. Capillary activity and water vapour diffusion resistance (µ-factor) are also considered.

Fire Safety Considerations: Mineral wool is a non-combustible material typically classified as A1 per BS EN 13501-1 - it doesn't support combustion, emit toxic gases or produce flaming droplets. Used as a component in fire protection systems for façades, partitions and fire compartments. When used in external insulation systems (e.g. ventilated façades), it ensures structural fire safety.

Design Life: The expected service life of mineral wool is minimum 30 years per BS EN 13162, provided proper installation, moisture protection and avoidance of mechanical damage.

Testing Regime: Testing is conducted according to BS EN 13162 and BS EN 1602-1609, including determination of thermal conductivity, water absorption, compressive strength, ageing resistance and dimensional stability. Fire performance is verified per BS EN 13501-1.

G-07-01 Insulation wall panel

General information: Insulation Wall Panel is used in external and internal wall constructions to enhance the energy efficiency of buildings. It provides thermal insulation, improves acoustic comfort, and can serve as decorative or protective cladding.

Energy / Thermal considerations: Insulated wall panels have low thermal conductivity and must comply with energy performance requirements according to BS EN ISO 6946 (Building components and building elements – Thermal resistance and transmittance) and BS EN 13165/13162 (depending on insulation type, e.g., PIR or mineral wool). Panels should minimise heat loss and reduce the risk of thermal bridging.

Technical considerations: Insulation Wall Panels must have sufficient strength and rigidity to withstand mechanical loads, including wind pressure, while maintaining dimensional stability under temperature and humidity variations. Materials and construction should comply with BS EN 14509 (Self-supporting double skin metal faced insulating panels) or BS EN 13162/13165 for insulation products.

Fire safety considerations: Panel fire performance depends on the insulation material. Mineral wool panels provide A1 or A2 classification under BS EN 13501-1, while PIR and other polymer-based insulations may have lower ratings (e.g., B-s2,d0). Panel selection for façades and internal walls should consider fire resistance requirements in accordance with BS EN 13501-2.

Design life: The expected service life of Insulation Wall Panels is at least 30 years according to BS EN 14509 or the relevant insulation standard, provided correct installation and maintenance.

Testing regime: Panels should be tested for thermal conductivity (BS EN 12667), mechanical strength (BS EN 14509), fire performance (BS EN 13501-1/2), moisture absorption, and durability.

H-02-01 Double glazed unit (DGU-1)

General Information: A double glazed unit (DGU) is used in window, door, and façade systems to provide thermal and acoustic insulation. It consists of two glass panes separated by a spacer frame with a hermetically sealed cavity, which may be filled with air or an inert gas (e.g., argon). DGUs are employed in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings to enhance energy efficiency and comfort.

Energy / Thermal Considerations: According to BS EN 1279 (standards for insulating glass units), a double glazed unit must achieve a low thermal transmittance (U-value), particularly when using low-emissivity coatings (Low-E) and gas filling. This ensures compliance with building energy efficiency requirements, as specified in BS EN ISO 10077-1 and BS EN ISO 10456. The use of inert gases and warm-edge spacer bars further reduces heat loss and the risk of condensation.

Technical Considerations: Technical requirements for double glazed units are defined by BS EN 1279 (Parts 1–6), covering durability, airtightness, moisture absorption, optical properties, and thickness tolerances. Additional parameters include sound insulation, wind load resistance, and impact resistance (where required). Compatibility with window or façade systems must be ensured in accordance with BS EN 14351-1 (windows and external pedestrian doors).

Fire Safety Considerations: Standard double glazed units made from tempered or float glass are not fire-resistant, though they may be used in non-fire-rated barriers. Their behaviour in fire depends on the glass type: standard glass is not classified under BS EN 13501-1, but tempered or laminated glass may meet certain safe breakage requirements. If the glazed unit is part of a fire-rated system, specialist fire-resistant glass certified to BS EN 14449 and BS EN 13501-2 must be used.

Design Life The expected service life of a double glazed unit is at least 25–30 years, assuming proper installation and sealing quality, as per BS EN 1279-2 and -3.

Testing Regime: Testing includes assessments for:

• Airtightness (BS EN 1279-2)

• Moisture absorption (BS EN 1279-3)

• Thermal transmittance (BS EN 674)

• Light transmittance (BS EN 410)

• Sound insulation (BS EN ISO 10140)

• Resistance to climatic cycling and ageing

• Full-scale testing of glazed units within window systems is conducted under BS EN 14351-1.