Thermal Bridge Breakage
The thermal break (RPT) in aluminum profiles is a process that enhances the thermal efficiency of these profiles, particularly in windows, doors, and facades. It involves inserting an insulating material, typically made of polyamide or resin, between the internal and external sections of the aluminum profile, effectively separating the two parts to prevent direct heat transfer.
Aluminum, by nature, is an excellent thermal conductor. However, in applications like window and door frames, this can lead to energy losses. The thermal break (also known as thermal insulation) interrupts heat transfer by introducing a non-conductive material between the two metal sections, creating a barrier that prevents the flow of heat.
Aluminum, by nature, is an excellent thermal conductor. However, in applications like window and door frames, this can lead to energy losses. The thermal break (also known as thermal insulation) interrupts heat transfer by introducing a non-conductive material between the two metal sections, creating a barrier that prevents the flow of heat.
Stages
1. Extrusion of the Aluminum Profile:
- Initially, the aluminum profile is manufactured in two separate parts (the inner face and the outer face) through the extrusion process.
- These components are designed to be connected later by inserting the insulating material.
2. Machining and Preparation of the Profiles:
- Before inserting the insulating material, both aluminum profiles undergo a milling or grooving process. Grooves are created on the contact surfaces of both profiles to accommodate the insulation material, ensuring a strong and durable mechanical bond.
3. Insertion of the Insulating Material (Polyamide or Resin):
- In this phase, the insulating material, commonly reinforced fiberglass polyamide or special resins, is inserted. This material has low thermal conductivity, effectively interrupting the flow of heat between the internal and external parts of the profile.
4. Assembly of the Profile Parts:
- Once the insulating material is inserted, the two aluminum parts (internal and external) are assembled and compressed around the polyamide using a specialized machine that ensures a strong and precise mechanical connection. This assembly maintains the thermal insulation barrier that prevents heat transfer.
5. Stabilization of the Profile:
- To ensure the structural stability of the profile, a series of thermal treatments are applied, allowing the polyamide or insulating material to stabilize and adhere firmly to the aluminum. This step is crucial to guarantee that the insulating material does not undergo deformation and retains its properties over time.
6. Testing and Quality Control:
- Profiles with thermal break undergo rigorous quality tests to ensure insulation effectiveness and compliance with thermal and mechanical specifications. Parameters such as mechanical strength, adhesion of the insulating material, and thermal performance are measured according to energy efficiency standards.
Advantages of Thermal Break:
- Energy Savings: Reduces heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, improving the energy efficiency of buildings.
- Improved Comfort: Provides greater thermal insulation, resulting in a more comfortable indoor environment without drastic temperature fluctuations.
- Reduced Condensation: Minimizing heat flow reduces the risk of condensation on internal surfaces of windows and doors, improving indoor air quality.
- Acoustic Efficiency: Enhances acoustic insulation, providing greater comfort by reducing external noise.
- Sustainability: Contributes to reduced energy consumption, positively impacting CO₂ emissions reduction.
The thermal break is an essential process in the manufacturing of aluminum profiles intended for energy-efficient building applications, particularly in windows and facades that must comply with strict energy-saving regulations.