The Kawneer Trifab VersaGlaze 450 Framing System is a versatile storefront framing option designed for a range of architectural applications. It supports various glazing methods, infill thicknesses, and finish options. Installation instructions and technical details are available for several configurations, including stick assembly, shear block assembly, and screw spline assembly. The system is applicable to storefronts, ribbon windows, and punched openings, and can integrate with Kawneer entrances and windows. Safety precautions regarding cutting, welding, and grinding are noted, referencing Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for specific material hazards.
System Overview and Applications
The Trifab VersaGlaze 450 Framing System is designed for both interior and exterior glazed applications. It accommodates 1/8″ (3.2mm), 1/4″ (6.4mm), or 3/8″ (9.5mm) infill options. The system supports front, center, back, or multi-plane glass applications and can be flush glazed from either the inside or outside. Fabrication methods include screw spline, shear block, stick, and Type-B assembly. An SSG (Structural Silicone Glazing) and weatherseal option is also available.
The system is suitable for single-span applications and allows for the integration of Kawneer standard entrances or other specialty entrances. Kawneer windows can also be readily incorporated into designs utilizing this framing system. It has been hurricane impact tested on shutter applications.
Installation Procedures
Installation instructions are categorized by system type. Available documentation covers:
- TRIFAB VG (Versa Glaze) 450/451/451T
- TRIFAB™ VG 450/451/451T – Impact Resistant Installation Instructions & Take-off Guide
- Trifab™ 451UT (Ultra Thermal)
- TRIFAB™ 601/601T/601 UT Framing
- GLASSvent™ FOR STOREFRONT FRAMING
Specific assembly instructions are provided for stick assembly, shear block assembly, and screw spline assembly. Detailed framing details are available for both inside and outside glazed configurations, including options for standard and lightweight receptors. Corner details are also provided for both receptor types. Additional details cover stool trims, brake metal adaptors, and splice sleeves. Installation instructions are also available for GLASSvent windows with framing details for both inside and outside glazed applications.
Framing Details and Components
Architectural detail manuals provide comprehensive information for maximizing the use of the Kawneer product range. These manuals include system details, thermal and structural charts, performance specifications, and CAD and 3-D models. Framing details are available for various configurations, including:
- Framing Details (Inside Glazed)
- Framing Details (Outside Glazed)
- Framing Details (Outside Glazed) "Glass Stops Up"
- Optional Vertical Mullions
- Optional 4-1/2" Horizontal and Sidelite Bases
- Transition Mullions with "Standard Receptor"
- Transition Mullions with "Lightweight Receptor"
Specific details are also available for center plane framing, including framing details for outside glazed and inside glazed applications, as well as details for GLASSvent windows.
Finishes and Material Safety
The Trifab VersaGlaze 450 Framing System offers a variety of finishes, including anodized finishes in four choices, and painted finishes in standard and custom choices. Finish information is available in the Architectural Detail Manual, along with color charts for anodized finishes, Permadize® liquid paints, Permafluor™ liquid paints, and Permacoat™ powder paints.
When working with Kawneer products, it is important to be aware of potential hazards associated with altering the material through cutting, welding, and grinding. The documentation references Arconic’s SDS database for safety information on specific materials. Relevant SDS ID numbers and descriptions include:
- 1405 – Kawneer Thermal Break Filled Extrusions
- 1385 – Kawneer Acrylic Paints
- 1386 – Kawneer Fluoropolymer Paints
- 1526 – Kawneer Bloomsburg Solvent Recovery Still Residuals
- 1387 – Painted Architectural Aluminum Extrusions
- 509 – Aluminum Extrusions, Anodized Aluminum Products
Users are directed to search Arconic’s SDS database for detailed safety information.
Entrance and Window Integration
The Trifab VersaGlaze 450 Framing System is designed to integrate seamlessly with Kawneer entrances and windows. Installation instructions are available for various entrance types, including:
- 190/350/500 Door & Glazing installation
- Hinged Doors (Center Hung Door End Load & Side Load)
- Offset Pivot Doors (Floor Closers & Overhead Closers)
- Specialty Entrances (350/500 TUFFLINE™ Entrances)
- Thermal Entrances (AA™250_425 with TRIFAB™ 451T/601/601T FRAMING, INSULCLAD™ 260/360/560 DOORS WITH TRIFAB™ 451T CENTER FRAMING)
Instructions are also provided for door frame assembly and installation, including retrofit instructions for pre-1998 Husky closers and Kawneer drop plates for Norton 1600 series closers.
Additional Components and Hardware
Installation instructions and documentation are available for various hardware components, including:
- TRIFAB™ 400, VG450_451 for Butt Hung, Center Hung, and Offset Pivot Doors
- JAMB FAB for C.O.C. header t-bar and transom bar
- Push-Pull / Panic Hardware (Paneline EL, including wiring diagrams and service instructions)
- Projected Windows (7225 Non-Thermal Window, 8225TL IsoLock™ Window)
- Traco Window Glazing Instructions
Product Approvals and Sustainability
Related product approvals are available for review. The system also has associated Environmental Product Declarations (EPD) and DECLARE labels, indicating a commitment to sustainability and transparency in material sourcing and environmental impact. A Product Green Guide is also available.
Conclusion
The Kawneer Trifab VersaGlaze 450 Framing System provides a comprehensive solution for storefront and curtain wall applications. Detailed installation instructions, architectural details, and finish options are available to support a wide range of design requirements. Emphasis is placed on proper safety procedures when working with the materials, referencing SDS documentation for specific hazards. The system’s compatibility with Kawneer entrances and windows, along with its focus on sustainability, further enhances its value for architects, contractors, and building owners.