Kalwall® Hurricane-Resistant Windows certified to TAS and ASTM standards

Subscribe to FREE newsletter

Jul 08, 2010

Architectural Large Missile Impact Resistant Windows: Design Performance Level 80 PSF (3.83 kPa) (upgraded from 70 PSF) Tested and Certified to TAS 201, TAS 202, TAS 203, ASTM E1886, and ASTM E1996.

Kalwall translucent fenestration systems have long been known for their outstanding structural integrity. The unique Kalwall system has been certified for hurricane resistance for many years, but the newly introduced Kalwall E-Series Windows, which allow integration of clear vision glass with translucent panels in the unitized Curtainwall System, are certified to TAS 201, 202, and 203 as well as ASTM E1886 and E1996 in fixed and project-out sash models. Designers get all the benefits of Kalwall’s glare-free, controlled daylighting and high insulating values plus clear vision to the outside, an important component of LEED® certification. The clear glazing is five feet wide and can be up to three feet high, offering a variety of options to designers. Kalwall is the only translucent system meeting these new specifications.

Additionally, when properly installed, E-Series Windows meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) and UFAS (Uniform Federal Accessibility Standard) criteria. For example, operable windows should be installed so as to have an unimpeded approach. The window takes less than 5 lbs. (2.2 kg) of force to open and close and the single window handle is a comfortably curved, open-loop design that can be effortlessly operated without rotation of the hand.

All Kalwall systems are based on a structural composite sandwich panel formed by permanently bonding, under heat and pressure, specially formulated, fiberglass-reinforced translucent faces to a grid core constructed of interlocked, structural aluminum/composite, thermally broken "I" beams. Kalwall is exceptional at reducing thermal heat/cooling loss and controlling solar heat gain to deliver significant savings in HVAC costs and is also maintenance-free and highly vandal-resistant.

During the manufacturing process, Kalwall panels can be infilled with various densities of translucent insulation, including the revolutionary Kalwall+ Nanogel®. U-factor performance ranges from a standard .29 to include options from .53 to .05 in the standard 2-3/4-inch (70 mm) or new 4-inch (100 mm) panel.

On both cloudy and bright days, all Kalwall systems have the unique ability to fill a space with diffused, natural daylight. Millions of prismatic glass fibers imbedded in the faces of Kalwall refracts daylight in a balanced, diffuse wash of usable light; even on sunny days, there is no harsh glare. The quality of light is truly exceptional, especially where computer screens or video monitors are used. Shades, curtains, and light shelves can be eliminated.

For other relevant searches, you might want to try: