Influence of Sashes Stiffness on PVC Windows Resistance to Wind Load

Abstract

Nowadays, the calculation of wind load on PVC window units is carried out according to a simplified method, without taking into account the stiffness of PVC profile elements and the joint actions of their load-bearing elements (imposts) and sashes. The introduction of a refined methodology for the calculation of PVC window units, concerning the above factors, will reduce specific consumption of materials and the cost of products. In this work, we do research about this issue. Laboratory tests were conducted on typical designs of PVC window units to test the effect of wind loads. Various configurations of PVC window units (with different types of reinforcing profiles of sashes and imposts, fixed window, etc.) were examined under different wind pressures. The test results were compared with the theoretical calculations. It is established that the effect of the sash on the deflection of the calculated elements of the window unit is significant, and the theoretical calculations do not coincide with the test results. The model of the PVC window unit operation is described under the action of positive and negative wind pressure, taking into account its components - PVC profiles, reinforcing profiles, insulating glass units, etc. The directions of further research of this issue are suggested.