IFT Rosenheim, Wicona agree to innovative cooperation

2009-06-18

Wicona and the Institute of Window Technology in Germany (IFT Rosenheim) have formally agreed to cooperate on testing and the test devices that the aluminium building systems brand is using in its new test center in Bellenberg.

Wicona's close cooperation with IFT Rosenheim - the agreement has no time constraints - has formed the technological backbone of the new center, where test procedures and testing equipment were developed and adapted in collaboration with the Institute. This equipment enables tests to be carried out in accordance with German, European and international standards and guidelines.

On this basis, the Wicona test center is able to provide tailored programs for tests in the project business or special constructions or designs.

Without the relevant test certificates and approvals, complex products such as aluminium façades or windows could not be placed on the market today. System tests have simplified the procedures in the standard area.

Exceptions include special constructions, property solutions or general requirements set out in the performance specification, which deviate from the norm. In these cases, individual tests are required. The test center gives Wicona-brand customers the facilities required for all these scenarios.

The test center offers two large façade test rigs, test rigs for windows and fittings, a push/pull tester and a so-called "hot box" for thermal transmittance measurements and assessment of new materials.

The following tests can be performed on aluminium façades in accordance with the existing quality standards (in parentheses):

• Air permeability (EN 12153)
• Static tightness against driving rain (EN 12155)
• Dynamic tightness against driving rain (EN 13050)
• Resistance to wind load (EN 12179)
• Impact resistance (EN 14019)
• Load capacity for glazing to safeguard against falling (TRAV)

Similarly, the following tests are possible for aluminium windows doors, fixed glazings and combinations:

• Air permeability (EN 1026)
• Tightness against driving rain (EN 1027)
• Resistance to wind load (EN 12211)
• Load with soft and heavy body impact (EN 13049)

IFT Rosenheim is a European research and testing institute. The IFT has been approved by the German Institute for Building Technology and the notification office in Brussels to perform all legally required tests and verifications for windows, façades, doors and gates as well as for all related building materials and accessories.