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SUPPORT · ALUMINIUM TERMINOLOGY

GLOSSARY

All the technical terms of aluminium systems, explained simply. Search for a term or browse alphabetically.

  • Air permeability

    The extent to which a closed window or door lets air pass through. It is rated in classes (1–4) under EN 12207: the higher the class, the more airtight the frame.

  • Aluminium alloy

    A combination of aluminium with magnesium, silicon and other elements (6xxx series for architectural profiles) that optimises strength, elasticity and extrusion behaviour.

  • Aluminium recycling

    Aluminium can be recycled 100% without losing its properties, using just 5% of the energy needed for primary production, which is why it is regarded as a leading sustainable building material.

  • Anodising

    An electrolytic treatment that forms a hard, protective oxide layer on the aluminium surface. It increases corrosion resistance and gives a uniform metallic finish.

  • CE marking

    A mandatory marking that declares the window or door complies with the harmonised European standards (EN 14351-1) for safety, weathertightness and energy performance.

  • Curtain wall

    A self-supporting aluminium and glass façade (curtain wall) hung from the building’s load-bearing structure: the architectural solution for office and hotel façades.

  • Energy-efficient glazing

    Double or triple glazing with a low-e coating and argon gas filling. It reduces heat loss in winter and overheating in summer.

  • EPD (Environmental Product Declaration)

    A standardised, independently verified document that records the environmental footprint of a product across its entire life cycle. It counts towards LEED / BREEAM building certifications.

  • Extrusion

    The industrial process that shapes aluminium: a heated billet (a cylinder of alloy) is pressed through a steel die to take on the final cross-section of the profile.

  • KENAK

    Greece’s Building Energy Performance Regulation (KENAK). It sets the minimum thermal insulation requirements (maximum permitted Uw) for each climate zone in Greece.

  • Polyamide

    A glass-fibre-reinforced synthetic material with very low thermal conductivity. It is used to make thermal break strips.

  • Powder coating (electrostatic)

    A coating process in which electrostatically charged polyester powder is baked onto the profile. Certified to QUALICOAT, it offers 200+ RAL, wood-effect and matt-texture finishes.

  • Sash

    The moving part of the window or door that holds the glass: hinged, tilting or sliding, depending on the system.

  • Sliding system

    A window or door whose sashes glide horizontally on tracks, taking up no space indoors. Ideal for large openings and minimal sightlines.

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  • Thermal break

    Polyamide strips inserted between the inner and outer aluminium profiles, interrupting the thermal bridge. A key feature of energy-efficient windows and doors.

  • Thermal transmittance (U-value)

    The heat that passes through a building element, in W/(m²K): Uf for the frame, Ug for the glazing, Uw for the whole window. The lower the value, the better the insulation.

  • Tilt mechanism

    A mechanism that lets the sash open on its hinges or tilt inwards for safe ventilation. In EXALCO systems it is combined with multi-point locks.

  • Watertightness

    The resistance of a closed window or door to water penetration under wind pressure, per EN 12208. Critical for coastal and exposed buildings.