Nov 4 2009
Unique Design Enables YOW 350 XT to Achieve Historically Low U-values
YKK AP America, the leader in manufacturing high quality architectural products, today expands its enerGfacade product line with the launch of the most energy-efficient aluminum window in its AW class, the YOW 350 XT. Designed to ensure high performance and operation, the architectural grade window offers thermal resistant properties and barriers to minimize energy loss, making it up to 30 percent more efficient than standard, thermally broken windows. When using industry standard Low-E glazing, the YOW 350 XT achieves an aggressive U-value of 0.34 in a fixed window configuration. With the same glass type, casement and projected configurations, the YOW 350 XT achieves a U-value of 0.35. By adding high-performance glazing, this new window achieves historically low u-values – resulting in a new era of energy-efficiency for commercial aluminum window systems.
The YOW 350 XT utilizes YKK AP’s MegaTherm technology, composed of low conductive polyamide strips, which separate exterior metal from interior metal, providing a continuous thermal barrier to reduce condensation and conserve energy. Enhanced accessories, such as specialized gaskets, are incorporated into the system to create smaller air cavities which break the convection of energy within the glazing pocket for a warmer interior metal surface. Operable sash gasket designs allow it to insulate air cavities between the frames. Together, these patent pending attributes minimize energy flow within the framing system itself and provide interior surfaces which are significantly warmer than traditional window systems.
“With the launch of YOW 350 XT, we are expanding our enerGfacade offering to include the most energy-efficient window in its class,” said Oliver Stepe, senior vice president of YKK AP. “Its superior, thermal resistant properties are achieved through the innovative design of the framing, and provide for a strong, high performance solution. With this addition, we are proud to meet the sustainability and design needs of commercial buildings while providing the same high quality for which YKK AP is known.”
In addition to thermal resistant properties, the YOW 350 XT also provides balanced sight lines to optimize daylighting. Tested in accordance with the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) 101 Standard/ Specification for windows, doors and unit skylights, the YOW 350 XT meets the toughest requirements of the commercial market and has achieved the AW classification. Currently available with butt hinges or 4-bar hinges, which have been life cycle tested, the window is ideal for commercial building structures such as office buildings, hospitals, schools and condominiums.
YKK AP America will showcase the enerGfacade product line at this year’s Greenbuild International Conference and Expo, November 11-13 in Phoenix, Arizona in booth number 315.
Source: http://www.ykkap.com/