PROJECTS

The goal of this project is to develop an innovative window system. This system will be based on the development of profiles in aluminium with thermal barrier that break with the traditional concept of aluminum windows. Contrary to the majority of the solutions currently on the market the thermal break will not be made using polyamides or other materials derived from petroleum, but with a cork based composite material, which will promote excellent thermal and acoustic performance, while contributing to a greater sustainability of the overall solution.

The incorporation of an innovative insulation material raises some concerns regarding the mechanical behaviour and the durability of the window. Therefore, one major goal of this project is to develop a new assembly process for windows. This innovative concept in window making will be based on the design of profiles connected through corner pieces, which promote the proper mechanical performance of the window and optimize the production process and window assembly. This new window assembly concept requires the development of profile making technologies and the definition of their general geometries and principles of assembly.

In addition to ensuring the solution’s proper functionality, durability and mechanical strength, the new profile assembly concept will ensure optimised manufacturing processes and faster frame assembly. The process developed during the project will also facilitate further the separation and recycling of material, as far as end of service life is concerned.

This solution will have innovative features at the assembly level and will integrate an insulation element capable of giving the system high thermal performance. This system will be achieved through the development of an insulating material capable of connecting and ensuring the thermal breakage between two aluminum profiles in order to create a profile with high thermal performance and with structural characteristics that can be used in the manufacturing of windows.

It is expected to perform an extensive theoretical research to develop the window. The final product is then validated experimentally using prototypes.

The project will be executed in a consortium between Sapa Portugal (developer), a reference company in the development and manufacturing of innovative solutions in aluminium, Amorim

Cork Composites (co-promoter), a world leader in the cork industry and Itecons (co-promoter) a non-corporate entity of R & D aimed at the development and characterization of new constructive systems.