Grant: CCI Applied Research and Development Grants

Building Envelope System Design has evolved significantly over the years. Insulated walls have become thicker, and windows are often installed deeper within the wall. Additionally, it has become common practice to add insulation to the exterior surface of the walls. To cover this insulation, window manufacturers typically add "panning" to the outside of the window, protecting the external wall insulation from water infiltration around the window. Each window company has its own panning system design, but most are similar. Light-gauge metal extrusions are the standard. This lightweight metal is attached to the exterior of the heavier window unit. In practice, workers often grasp the panning when loading, unloading, and installing windows. Unfortunately, this frequently results in the seal between the window frame and the panning breaking, particularly at the corners. Inkster Park Millwork, with the support of the Building Efficiency Technology Access Centre (BETAC) at RRC Polytech aims to solve this issue. The project will focus on designing and testing a panning system that is robust enough to be lifted by handlers/installers without compromising the seal. Additionally, the sealants will be hidden from view, meeting the aesthetic requirements of architects and building owners. The project will involve developing new panning profile components, creating prototype profiles in collaboration with a welding company, testing the durability of the bond, including tensile and torsion strength and water leakage resistance, installing full panning profiles on windows, and conducting comprehensive air and water leakage tests in BETAC’s testing chamber, followed by reporting the findings.