New systems from Schueco have been designed to deliver both greater energy efficiency and enhanced ‘kerb-appeal’. The combination of ever-slimmer frame-widths and ever-more effective thermal insulation is enabling Schueco to remain ahead of competitors

The steady stream of innovative products from Schueco includes the FWS 60 CV concealed vent façade system, which takes façade technology to a new level. Designed primarily for classic, floor-to-ceiling ribbon windows, the unique feature of this new system is that from the outside it is not possible to distinguish which vents open and which vents are fixed.

This revolutionary innovation, which also has the added benefit of maximising light transmission through the façade, has been achieved by merging the vent with the load-bearing structure. Even from inside, the only indications of an opening unit are a flat slimline shadow gap and the presence of the window opening handle.

Moreover, to ensure complete safety in use, an almost invisible all-glass Juliet balcony can be integrated into the areas which have opening vents.

Also ideal as a solution for punched openings, the Schueco FWS 60 CV façade counteracts the prevailing trend of meeting the demand for ever-greater levels of thermal and sound insulation by using ever-larger window profiles.

Instead, the system has been designed with face-widths that are elegant and narrow and yet its inbuilt engineering excellence means that it delivers impressive Ucw values as low as 0.85 W/m2K (with a glazing U value of 0.7 W/m2K) as well as an extremely high level of functionality.

To make the system yet more versatile, Schueco AWS side-hung or turn/tilt windows can be easily incorporated using Schueco AvanTec SimplySmart fittings. A new optional SimplySmart comfort fitting, fully integrated into the profile, also allows heavy windows to be moved more easily.

In addition, a system of high-performance external, centre and internal gaskets enables the Schueco FWS 60 CV façade to satisfy even the most stringent requirements for wind-load and weather-tightness. A choice of two basic depths and a new method of attaching the façade to the building that ensures optimal thermal insulation and efficient drainage, give the façade an enviable degree of versatility.

The emphasis on developing systems that deliver optimal performance with the slimmest possible face-widths is starting to emerge as one of the dividing lines between Schueco and its rivals. The understated elegance of the new Schueco FWS range will make it particularly appealing to the many architects for whom glazing with heavy framing is design anathema.

A high degree of prefabrication allows the façade to be put together particularly easily with the transom profiles being placed in the fixed fields to fit between opening units. After the fixed fields have been glazed, the glass is secured using pressure plates onto which cover caps are fitted.

One of the biggestchallenges in implementing the thermal insulation zone of the Schueco FWS 60 CV façade was to combine and position intelligent isolator components to ensure fabrication and system security, despite the very narrow face-width of 60 mm. 

The new glass fibre-reinforced compression-resistant isolator is the key to achieving both an optimum Uf value and a high degree of stability and durability. Interestingly, when compared to standard constructions with insert outer frames and window vents, the system’s very narrow face-width actually assists in improving its energy efficiency as measured by Ucw values.

A prepared adapter profile is also an important component: by comparison with windows bonded conventionally, it shortens the fabrication process by allowing the use of acrylic tape for direct bonding. 

With burglar resistance up to RC 2, the Schueco FWS 60 CV façade is the ideal system for enhancing the thermal performance and visual appearance of both new-builds and existing commercial properties.

For further information on the Schueco FWS 60 CV façade, please email mkinfobox@schueco.com

www.schueco.co.uk