architectural membrane association
PTFE coated glass open mesh fabrics have been used for constructive membranes in the field of textile roofing (especially shading structures and façades) for more than 15 years. Due to the molecular structure of the fluoropolymer coating, which is considered as one of the most stable organic compounds, the open grid is extremely resistant to all environmental impacts. Especially in the use of façade structures this material is an excellent and economical alternative to perforated metal sheets.
The material is available in a certain range of openings and tensile strengths. The expected design life for such realisation can be settled on 25+ years.
Manufacturing and installation
For the manufacturing and installation of PTFE glass fabrics high skill, experience and proper tools are needed. The fabric will be welded by an additional welding tape with heavy hot-bar welding machines. PTFE glass shall not be sharply doubled or folded due to the glass stiffness, so enough manufacturing space is required and special care for transportation is needed. Especially due to the open mesh it should be considered the behaviour of the single threads during design and handling. While installing a PTFE glass open mesh fabric, the surface needs a very leveled foundation due to the above-mentioned stiffness and the divergent elongation behaviour of the warp and weft glass yarns direction. Constant tension and adaptable tension devices, enough installation time and clement weather condition may help the distensile process at the best quality results.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Thanks to the absence of plasticizers and the excellent anti-adhesive properties of its coating, the fabric will essentially not pollute and the surface won't transmute due to chemical degradation.
• Expensive raw material (compared with PVC-PE open mesh)
• Low flammability (fire classification DIN 4102, B1 or EN 13501 B-s1, DO)
• Some materials fulfill the fire classification DIN 4102 A2 (non-combustible)
• Colour white (delivered in beige it bleaches out within ~ 3 month)
• Other colours possible up to the amount of material needed
• Strong and durable (> 25 years)
• Dirt repellent surfaces
• Suitable for use in all weather conditions
• Suitable for hot bar welding only
These open mesh fabrics are used mainly for architectural applications in the area of sunshade and façade structures. The material can be delivered in variable opening versions and – up to the required surface area – in different colours. Due to its mentioned stiffness Glass PTFE open grid cannot be used for temporary or retractable applications.
