Lightweight, ductile and highly corrosion-resistant. The extrusion process offers infinite formal possibilities, making it the backbone of curtain walls and contemporary windows.
Formation of the protective oxide layer. The electrochemical process creates a vitreous barrier inseparable from the base metal.
Since its industrial discovery in the 19th century (the Hall-Héroult process), aluminium has redefined the concept of structural lightness. In architecture, its large-scale use took off with modern skyscrapers and the invention of the curtain wall.
Pure aluminium is too soft for structural uses. In construction the alloys of the 6000 series (aluminium-magnesium-silicon) are mainly used. These alloying elements ensure a perfect balance between mechanical strength and suitability for extrusion. Through a steel die, the pre-heated aluminium billet is pressed to create profiles with complex sections, integrating into a single piece the clips, gasket grooves and chambers for the thermal break.
On contact with oxygen, aluminium naturally forms an infinitesimal passivating film. For outdoor use, this protection is artificially multiplied through anodising (a controlled electrochemical process that generates a hard, porous oxide layer, then sealed) or through thermosetting polyester powder coating, which offers an unlimited colour range (QUALICOAT standard).
European and international references applicable.
Given the very high thermal conductivity, in window frames aluminium must be coupled with polyamide insulating strips (Thermal Break) to avoid condensation and heat losses.
Mullions and transoms for high-performance glazed envelopes.
PRC.10 · Open the processWindows, doors and minimal panoramic sliders.
PRC.27 · Open the processBrise-soleil, fixed and orientable solar control fins.
PRC.40 · Open the processVentilated facade cladding.
PRC.21 · Open the processSpecific strength = yield strength divided by density (kN per kg per metre). Aluminium achieves approximately twice the specific strength of structural steel, explaining why it replaces steel in windows and curtain walls: equal structural performance at half the weight, with far less visual bulk.
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