Designing for Windows Systems

As one of the most experienced companies in the field of automated window systems, part of our job is to help you develop accurate specifications for your project. The following points, in no particular order, answer the most common questions we receive from architects and builders. (If you have other questions, please call us).

Standard window section design does not provide for concealing or integration of remote control equipment.
Window control equipment size is directly proportional to sash size and weight.
Wind load must be considered, especially if windows are in a second storey or above, and particularly if sashes are large.
In the light of the above, anchoring of equipment is an issue (many aluminium sections, and timbers, will not hold screws under high loads).
Awning sash opening of approximately 52 degrees gives an airflow space equal to the total sash opening area.
When stays are selected for awning sashes their travel must match or exceed the chain stroke.
Non-friction stays or hinges must be used. Stays with rubbing blocks are not acceptable- even when the friction screw is adjusted to non- friction the stay design imposes unacceptable opening loads as the sash opens through the second half of the opening movement.
Co-ordination of window and electrical/mechanical specifications is essential- we observe that often the window specifications include little detail about how they are to be switched, and the electrical/mechanical specification does not detail where the windows to be controlled are located, or what the power and switching requirement might be.

Ideally awning sashes should be 500mm high or more as the chains used on control equipment are designed to a radius of 500mm. Smaller sashes need to be restricted to a smaller opening to compensate

Australian window manufacturers have varying recommendations for single attachment to their awning windows. These recommendations are made for general window sizes.

Although some chain winder manufactures state that their products are capable of opening and closing larger windows, the recommendations of window manufacturer also need to be taken into account.

It is common for window manufacturers to state that the maximum width is approximately 1200mm before requiring a second attachment to the window. Certain manufacturers will recommend alternate maximum widths and these needs to be considered, in some cases these will be less than 1200mm.

Australian Standard AS4420.6 (Ultimate Strength Test) which ensures the window is capable of withstanding the positive and negative forces applied to it must be complied with. This also can become a limiting factor for awning window size with single attachment.

Work with us

Arens has a long history of supplying window automation and remote controls to projects throughout Australia and overseas for more than 50 years. One thing is true for every project, the earlier you talk to us the better the results.

Whether your project is big or small, you’ll get the best possible outcome by working with us in the earliest stages to establish control possibilities, clarify specification requirements, and benefit from close liaison throughout each project. We highly recommend that you consult with us as early as possible regarding your window controls.