Content Determination of representative Ψ-values for profile sections of windows As set out by the window product standard EN 14351-1 clause 4.12, one of the methods to determine the thermal transmittance UW of windows is by calculation as per EN ISO 10077-1. The quantities required for this calculation are the thermal transmittances of the frame and the glazing, Uf and Ug, respectively as well as the linear thermal transmittance Ψ. The Ψ-value describes the heat loss caused by fitting the glass in the frame. The amount of this Ψ-value depends largely on the type of spacer inserted in the insulating glass unit. In this context we distinguish between ‘conventional‘ and thermally improved spacers. The definition of a thermally improved spacer is included in EN ISO 10077-1 and has again been summarised in the scope of this guideline. For calculation of the UW-value of windows, EN ISO 10077-1 states global Ψ-values for both ‘conventional‘ and thermally improved spacers which can be used without further verification. But it is also possible to calculate the Ψ-value for thermally improved spacers as per EN ISO 10077-2. In this conjunction it should be taken into account that the Ψ-value depends on the profile section, the configuration of the glass unit as well as the respective built condition and mounting situation. As set out by EN 14351-1, evidence of performance of windows is based on representative test specimens. For example, it is sufficient to calculate the thermal transmittance UW of a representative size of 1.23 m x 1.48 m. Likewise, also other characteristics, such as air permeability can be determined using representative test specimens.   This article is also available in German.

Content In accordance with the product standard for curtain walling, EN 13830, one of the methods to determine the thermal transmittance UCW of curtain walling is the calculation method set out in EN ISO 12631. For the calculation, it is necessary to use the thermal transmittances of mullions and transoms, Um and Ut, and the glazing Ug as well as the linear thermal transmittances Psimg and Psitg. These Psi-values describe the heat loss caused by fitting the glass unit in the mullion / transom. The amount of this Psi-value varies depending on the spacer used in the insulating glass unit (IGU). A distinction is made between “conventional” spacers and thermally improved spacers. EN ISO 12631 contains a definition of a thermally improved spacer, which is summarised in the scope of this Guideline.   This article is also available in German.

Content Usability of Sealants Part 1 of the Guideline describes the test methods for the following scopes of application.Contact of: Sealants of the insulating glass edge-sealing with materials of the weather sealing (outside joint), Sealants of the insulating glass edge-sealing with glazing materials, i.e. glass – frame, Insulating glass sealants with block-materials, Sealants of the insulating glass edge-sealing with adhesives and sealants, which are used in the area of the glazing rebate. Further tests are necessary for load bearing adhesion bonds. The influence of these adhesive materials on the insulating glass edge-sealing can be assessed.TPS spacer systems cannot be covered completely with the following examinations. Here secondary test procedures in consultation with the manufacturer are necessary.

Content + Foreword The usability of sealants Part 2 of the Guideline describes the test methods for the following scopes of application:Contact of edge of laminated glass or laminated safety glass with: Sealants of the insulating glass edge-sealing, Sealant to seal the weather sealings, Adhesives and sealants which are used in the area of the glazing rebate, Materials used for glazing block materials, Materials to seal the glazing, i.e. glass – frame, if they are in direct contact with the glass edge.   This article is also available in German.

Content + Foreword After appr. 10 years of testing experience and evaluation of integrated systems in the cavity of insulating glass unit (with ift guideline VE-07), adjustments of the testing procedure have become necessary. Compared to the previous edition VE-07/2 (2005 edition), changes have been made to the test cycles and test specimen sizes. This was done with the aim of adapting the testing and evaluation even more realistically to practical construction requirements for many years of trouble-free use. Changes to accompanying standards and regulations were also taken into account. This edition replaces the version VE-07/2 (2005 edition) and supplements its testing standards for future construction projects. The installation of sun protection systems in the closed cavity of insulating glass unit results in a product that must meet the requirements of both an insulating glass unit and a sun protection/daylight system. This ift guideline serves for the holistic assessment of the fitness for use of insulating glass unit with integrated installations for testing and evaluation of the system in the laboratory. Methods for the determination of building-physical characteristics are given in Annex A. Regarding the static design of the glass structures, the DIN 18008 standards series in the currently valid version applies. The procedure described in this guideline is based on the findings of the research project "Integral Evaluation of Innovative Building Envelopes", which was carried out at ift Rosenheim in the years 2000 to 2003, as well as on existing experiences from the use of such systems up to 2017. This ift guideline replaces the ift guideline VE-07/2 of August 2005. This article is also available in German.

Content + Foreword Part 1: Hollow profiles - not fully metallic spacer (Category B and C) Spacers in insulating glass systems have the function of enabling the insulating glass to be assembled as easily and safely as possible and, together with the other components, to permanently seal the insulating glass over its expected service life according to EN 1279-1, as well as to withstand the loads acting on them without any function-impairing changes. As spacer bars whose last layer on the spacer back is to be described as "non-metallic" are currently not covered by the interchangeability rules of the product standard, a procedure for interchangeability is described and tested for this group in terms of a later version of EN 1279-1 as well as a test scenario for addition in EN 1279-4.    In this guideline VE-17engl/1 test methods are described that represent the usability and durability for the edge-sealing of insulating glass units of the products. The are based on round robin tests and other proven guidance (see: Literature)

Content + Foreword Uf-values for thermal break metal profiles of window systems The present ift Guideline was prepared in collaboration with the aforementioned partners The Guideline refers to a series of European standards describing the thermal performance of building elements. The present Guideline reproduces the current state of research and investigation and is based on the relevant European standards. The Guideline is subject to revision and/or inclusion of additional methods or procedures in the case of amendments to the relevant European standards, and as necessary from the experience gained from practical application of this Guideline.   This article is also available in German.

Content + Foreword Uf-values for thermal break metal profiles of facade systems Thermal break metal profiles of facade systems are characterized by a large number of different profile sections of a wide variety of geometrical shapes but of comparable thermal properties of the thermal insulation zone referred to as thermal break. Consequently, the key parameters of such systems, e.g. material and configuration of the thermal break are the same. The relatively great number of individual profiles and possible profile combinations of specific profile systems require a practical approach to identify the Uf-values of the profile sections of the respective systems. The procedure described in the present Guideline is based on the fact that the thermal break continues to be more or less the same for all profiles pertaining to a specific profile system and that the profiles vary only by the internal and external metal sections. Research into a series of profile sections designed on the basis of results obtained from calculation and measurement has shown that this relationship is a workable solution. The present Guideline provides the general framework of this method and specifies the minimum number of measurements and/or calculations to be performed for a profile system. With increasing complexity of the selected system, the Uf-values of all other types of profile must be identified in addition to the minimum number of sections required.   This article is also available in German.

Content + Foreword Thermally improved spacers This Guideline specifies a method to determine the equivalent thermal conductivity of thermally improved spacers by means of measurement. The equivalent thermal conductivity determined in accordance with this Guideline is not to be used for comparing products, but only for the calculation of the linear thermal transmittance, in accordance with the ift-Guideline WA-08engl/2.   This article is also available in German.

Content Straightforward - safe - sustainable Universal design. Is it just a passing fad or something our industry needs to take seriously? Universal design – a synthesis of a number of different principles – aims to develop, simply and sustainably, products that can be used by the broadest possible section of the population. What does that mean for doors and gates? The Rosenheim Door Conference will be taking a close look at this question and considering what the implications are for product design. Demographic change and modern lifestyles mean that houses, rooms and components now need to be easier to use and more adaptable than ever before. The trends of sustainability, environment friendliness and future-proof construction all place demands on us already, whether in the form of legislation and standards, fitness for use or product certification requirements. But applying the principles of universal design as well can make a significant additional contribution to the economic and social sustainability of environments, products and services.   This article is also available in German.

Content The requirements and demands on our industry are becoming increasingly varied and complex, and the competition harder – also in the German market. To secure one’s position one has to progress with innovations and quality. As always, the International Rosenheim Window and Facade Conference offers the opportunity to gather information on the latest trends and to exchange ideas. Therefore this year’s conference runs under the motto “practical – innovative – international”. With the English architect Ken Shuttleworth (“Rediscovering shade: changing perspectives”) and Prof. Dr. Alexander Verl (Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft) (“Industry 4.0 – what concerns us today and awaits us tomorrow”) we have been able to invite two keynote speakers who can provide a wider perspective that goes beyond one’s proverbial own nose.   This article is also available in German.

Content The world is changing, and people’s actions are guided by new trends, desires and fears. The "energy turnaround" is still at the centre of public debate, however, so this year's International Rosenheim Window & Facade Conference will include presentations on EnEV 2013, energy labels, cost-efficiency and upgrade facades, arming you with the tools you need to advise building owners, architects and building energy consultants more effectively than ever. The era of mindless cost-cutting is past. In 2012 the premium market segment opens up opportunities for those who place an emphasis on quality, living comfort, and safeguarding value. When designing or selling premium products, we need to remember trends such as Universal Design, sustainability, and the increasing focus on the ease of use of components, and to consider the possibilities of automation. The new Construction Products Regulation demands a reassessment of the liability risks and documentary evidence associated with CE marking.   This article is also available in German.

Content For the German window, facade and glass industry, the last 10 years have been marked be continous improvements in energy efficiency. The driving forces behind this have been the new, tougher German Energy Saving Regulation (EnEV), and the increasingly demanding criteria that must be met to receive KfW support. Even if there are no tougher requirements of EnEV 2014 building owners today tend to build low-energy or passive houses – so subjecting windows, facades and glass to even tougher requirements than those set out in the EnEV.

Content The interest in sustainable quality products and the safety of construction products is being nurtured by fireworks released by the media on rising figures of burglaries and unbelievable construction defects. In standardisation, too, the requirements are becoming more stringent – the keyword being safety of use and child safety. On the other hand, you have the pressure on prices by global competition   In 13 sets of topics, the most diverse facets are being considered – that includes energy efficiency just as much as protection against natural disasters, the sale of quality or international trends for facades. Apart from this, natural practical topics such as requirements in special constructions, dimensioning glass, burglar-resistance or sound insulation are also being covered.   This article is also available in German.

Content Sustainability for windows, facades, doors and glass Demand for sustainable, energy-efficient buildings bearing sustainability certificate (e.g. DGNB, BNB, LEED and BREEAM) is constantly increasing. This technical information looks at what this means for manufacturers of windows, facades, doors, gates and glazing systems, and how architects, designers, planners and building certifiers can be assisted in the assessment of buildings. The term “sustainability” is on everybody’s lips, and consequently is interpreted in numerous different ways. According to the German “Duden” dictionary, sustainable action in an ecological context is action that keeps within the bounds of what nature can withstand. In practice, sustainability involves meeting environmental, economic and social objectives in equal measure; these three criteria are also known as the three “pillars of sustainability”.    This article is also available in German.

Content Modern buildings need to be energy-efficient. They also need to satisfy a demand for greater comfort, convenience, safety, security and sustainability. However, making a building more comfortable and convenient can also increase its energy consumption, so it is important to decide what features are really necessary and what are superfluous luxuries. Windows, facades, glass and solar shading systems have a substantial influence on living comfort and energy efficiency, and therefore play a key role in sustainable, energy-efficient buildings. Automated control systems can optimise energy consumption, safety, security, comfort and convenience yet further – provided, however, that these systems are planned and designed carefully with the active involvement of building users, and that professional support is offered in both the design and use stages of the building.   This article is also available in German.

Content Energy Turnaround 2020 Energy saving is the central task of the European economies in order to reduce CO2 emissions, to get independent from fossil fuels, to avoid nuclear technology and to lower the risks of the climate change. The Energy Turnaround cannot succeed without energy conservation, which is why the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive requires that all new buildings be “nearly zero energy” by 2020. The building envelope plays a key role here, because intelligent building envelope concepts can massively influence the energy balance and living comfort in a building.   But simply further enhancing thermal insulation is not enough: maximum use also needs to be made of solar energy, with the help of passive cooling by optimized glazing systems and light control and active cooling by photovoltaics and solar thermal. Special mechatronic components that communicate intelligently with the building services and heating systems are getting more and more important.   This article is also available in German.