WHAT IS KALWALL
Kalwall is the most highly insulating diffuse light transmitting system available. The primary component is a translucent structural composite sandwich panel formed by permanently bonding specially formulated fibreglass sheets to a grid core constructed of interlocked thermally-broken aluminium I-beams.
The panels are factory pre-fabricated to the exact size and configuration for each project. Panels can be flat or curved giving total flexability for both walls and roofs using Kalwalls integral Clamp-tite installation systems.
Stoakes Systems are the European partners of Kalwall.
Detailed view of the Kalwall panel
Kalwall panel performance table
WHAT KALWALL DOES
Controls light
Kalwall diffuses light so efficiently even direct sunlight is converted to even, glare free illumination. It gives a soft restfull light in work areas free from sharp shadows and contrast. This lighting environment prevents eyestrain, increases efficiency and saves energy.
Even on cloudy overcast days Kalwall will enhance natural light and transmit it into the building in surprisingly large volumes. Panels can be selected to transmit various percentages of light according to individual requirements.
Kalwall has the ability to transmit large amounts of usable light with a relatively low level of light transmission. Less radiant energy transmitted, coupled with diffusion, does away with the hot spots which are so common to other light transmitting materials.
The broad diffusion of light over a large area reduces the need for sunblinds, shades and louvres. When the building is lit at night the Kalwall will glow softly presenting a striking external appearance.
Maximises thermal insulation
'U' Values from 2.7W/m2K to 0.28W/m2K are available. These are lower than can be achieved with any other light transmitting material.
Controls Solar Heat
Kalwalls low level of solar heat transmission and re-radiation results in a comfortable environment and will reduce air conditioning costs.
Life expectancy
Standard Kalwall Fenestration Systems, including translucent panels and perimeter aluminium fixing material are designed for a maximum 50 year design life.
Weatherability
Kalwall proprietary technology will maintain colour, erosion resistance and light transmission.
UV protection is built into the full thickness of the face sheets with colour stable resins. It does not rely on gel-coats or other superficial, sacrificial coatings. Fibre exposure and fibre bloom are prevented by the inclusion of a glass veil laminate embedded in the outer sheet.
Impact Resistance
Kalwall is highly resistant to impact - excellent for use in schools, gymnasia, offices, public buildings and others subject to high traffic or vandalism.
Fire
Kalwall has excellent fire retardant properties. It is a thermo-set material, which, unlike thermoplastics or glass, will not drip, melt or shatter in a fire. In the UK, Kalwall has been successfully tested at the BRE to BS476 Parts 3, 6 and 7 and can achieve an internal Class 'O' Spread of Flame Rating. Kalwall panels can be specified as Factory Mutual (FM) approved.
Buildability
Kalwall is light in weight, usually between 12 and 16 KG/m2, minimising the need for supportive structure. Large panels can be installed very quickly with a minimum number of junctions.
Maintenance
Kalwall is virtually maintenance free in normal environments. Rainfall is usually sufficient to keep Kalwall free from dust and dirt. A periodic soapy water wash and clear water rinse is all that is needed both externally and internally. For most roof applications, additional external cleaning apparatus is usually unnecessary.
Quality Assurance and Testing
Kalwall is manufactured to a stringent quality assurance programme that incorporates testing to all the relevant building codes and standards.