The critical difference in performance is the dimension of the thermal break. While some systems have merely 3/8 of an inch, Kalwall's Thermal Break 2000 provides over 1-3/4 inches of separation between the inner and outer surfaces of the panel. The resulting performance is tremendously different. Clearly, not all thermal breaks are created equal; in fact, some completely lack adequate substance. Kalwall Structural Thermal Break Composite · 1-3/4 inches (44 mm) Non-conductive break · Stronger than aluminum · Passes all fire testing to 1200 degrees F · Superior insulation in panels -- "U" .10 or less · Stops condensation -- CRF 80+

Other "look-alike"thermal break technologies fail. . . · +/-3/8 inch (8 mm) Urethane Break · Fails in fire tests · Minor insulation · Little condensation control · Shrinks over time

THERMAL BREAK 2000
The latest iteration of yet another advance in achieving the ultimate energy-efficient, natural light-transmitting building technology from Kalwall. The Thermal Break 2000 system is based upon a fully thermally broken, translucent composite sandwich panel that delivers "U" factor options as low as .10 (R=10).

Not all thermal break technologies are equal! The dimension of the actual thermal isolation is key to the effectiveness of the thermal break. While some competing technologies boast of a thermal break, they deliver less than 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) isolation. The Kalwall thermal break is a full 1-3/4 inches (44 mm)!

Various improvements in technology and materials have been made since 1955, which have kept Kalwall in the forefront of energy-efficient daylighting and has earned worldwide acclaim. The latest iteration is yet another industry first.

The Kalwall Thermal Break 2000 panel replaces the standard aluminum grid core with a composite technology in the form of an aluminum/fiberglass I-beam grid core. The actual depth of the thermal break is unusually large at a full 1-3/4 inches (44 mm), accounting for its outstanding thermal performance; i.e. the panel with an aluminum grid yields a .18 "U", but with the composite thermal break, .10 is almost twice as good. The considerable thickness contributes to its superior heat flow resistance. Yet the new composite I-beam has passed all structural and fire testing regimes imposed upon an all-aluminum core. The panel has been in use in many high-performance custom projects for nearly 10 years in an extensive variety of buildings. Also unique in the industry is the ability of the thermally broken panel and grid core to pass critical fire testing, including achieving a U.L. listing for Class A and B built-up roof units, as well as an unofficial one-hour fire resistance test against fire temperatures up to 1200 degrees F.

Thermal break panel systems allow for the ultimate in climate control. Unlike traditional glazing material, Kalwall's thermally broken technology all but eliminates undesirable thermal gain and loss. It also prevents condensation that builds up when exterior and interior temperatures vary. Kalwall has long been recognized for its superior energy performance, as witnessed by its inclusion in many acclaimed energy-efficient "green" buildings.

As the most highly insulating, diffuse-light-transmitting technology available, Kalwall proves to be the best design solution for providing superior climate control and energy efficiency. All Kalwall systems have been tested and/or computer modeled according to test procedures certified by the National Fenestration Ratings Council for maximum energy efficiency and reliability.

Kalwall translucent building systems form the walls, windows and roofs of buildings of every imaginable configuration. With Kalwall, daylight is transmitted deep into interior spaces while the diffuse properties help to reduce eyestrain caused by glare on computer monitors and television screens. In libraries, art galleries and other spaces highly critical of lighting, Kalwall systems provide a balance of usable daylighting.

Proven in use for 10 years in selected custom projects and in unusual wet space environments such as swimming pool buildings, Kalwall Thermal Break 2000 is now standard throughout the product line. The traditional all-aluminum grid core construction is also available.

Superior Technology
"Look-alike" products attempting to mimic Kalwall provide thermoplastic "poured and debridged" technology with minimal thermal, fire and structural performance. Although they may proclaim their products as thermally broken, their technology is little more than a false claim.