Apogee Enterprises’ Architectural Framing Systems segment has enhanced the Tubelite ForceFront® Storm (FFS) 400T Curtainwall system. The improved design combines verified hurricane impact-resistance with updated thermally broken design, helping code-compliant, energy-efficient buildings support occupant safety, comfort and wellbeing. Tubelite FFS 400T Curtainwall’s aluminum framing features a 2.5-inch, captured or structural silicone glazed (SSG), pressure bar system for use on single- and twin-span applications. A wider choice of frame depths also are available with this improved design.
 
“Projects in climates with hurricanes and tropical storms, also face extreme heat and high temperatures. Tubelite ForceFront Storm Curtainwall provides building owners with a cost-effective, comprehensive solution,” said Tim Fookes, vice president of product engineering for Apogee Enterprises’ Architectural Framing Systems segment and Tubelite products. “Our FFS 400T system helps protect people and property from windborne flying debris and wind-driven rain. Its high-performance thermally broken framing also allows for large daylight openings, while maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures and energy-efficient operations.”
 
Part of a full line of ForceFront Storm hurricane impact-resistant products, Tubelite FFS 400T Curtainwall is engineered and tested to meet the Florida Building Code’s impact and cycling requirements, in accordance with relevant Testing Application Standards (TAS) and ASTM standards. These systems are approved through the Florida Product Approval (FPA) and pending with the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI). Tubelite FFS Curtainwall has been successfully tested for large missile impact testing for wind speeds in excess of 160 mph to meet High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) Wind Zone 3, as well as air and water resistance, structural integrity, condensation resistance and thermal cycling.

Assisting buildings in meeting Model Energy Codes and stretch goals, Tubelite FFS 400T Curtainwall offers U-values as low as 0.38 per NFRC 100 when using 1-5/16-inch laminated glass with warm edge spacer. To achieve its high thermal performance, Tubelite FFS 400T Curtainwall incorporates a thermally broken, closed-tongue design with an EPDM isolator between the interior and exterior framing members. Frame system depths now range from 8-1/6 to 10-9/16 inches and back members now are offered in several sizes.