Reliable protection against explosions
New blast-resistant Schüco systems
In view of the increased number of attacks around the world, the need for security is growing in every country. The technical safety requirements of building envelopes are therefore also increasing. Drawing on over ten years’ experience in this sensitive market segment, the Schüco answer has been to provide new, tailored blast-resistant window, door and façade systems made from aluminium and air-blast tested in accordance with ISO 16933. Examples include the Schüco AWS 90 XR window system, the Schüco ADS 90 XR door system and both the FW 80+ XR and FW 60+ XR façade systems. In addition to blast-resistant products, the Schüco BR series also provides system solutions for burglar-resistant and bullet-resistant constructions up to RC 4 and FB 4. In addition to meeting security requirements, these systems meet the highest standards of thermal insulation, functionality and design with identical profile face widths from the standard series.
Tested blast-resistant systems by Schüco are the ideal solution for securing military facilities, public buildings – such as embassies and hotels – and private homes. ISO 16933, for example, governs testing blast-resistant security glazing and its frame. It provides a structured procedure for determining the resistance of glazing to shock waves, and for assigning the glazing to corresponding classes. It also specifies the apparatus, procedures, test specimens and guidelines required to conduct arena air-blast tests. In contrast to the standard dimensions of 1100 x 900 mm defined in the norm, larger units of the XR series were successfully tested to provide proof of their blast-resistant properties. The XR series are therefore assessed based on this standard.
The new AWS 90 XR window system was tested in accordance with ISO 16933 as a single-leaf turn/tilt window of dimensions (W x H) 1210 x 1840 mm and with a concealed fitting. It withstood a shock wave of 169 kPa created by a blast 19 m from the test unit. This classifies the unit under EXV19 (E) based on ISO 16933. Hazard level E denotes a low risk.
The Schüco ADS 90 XR door series for system solutions up to class EXV 19 (E) is also part of the new XR system platform. With a tested leaf size of 1100 x 2250 mm for single and double-leaf doors, large blast-resistant units are also possible. This does not limit functionality, such as the panic fitting combination.
A system Schüco designed specifically to meet the highest requirements of blast resistance, the Schüco FW 80 + XR façade construction, was tested at a distance of 15 m from the blast. The resulting classification of EXV 15 (D) provides a high level of safety with a “very low risk”. Hazard level “D” means the glass is permitted to break, however, the shards must travel no further than 1 m behind the original location of the glass. As well as the safety aspects themselves, particular attention was paid to their harmonisation with architectural requirements. This system gives planners and architects maximum design freedom with tested glass dimensions of up to 1545 x 1980 mm.
The finishing touch to the XR system platform is given by the extended area of application calculated for every series. It can be used as proof of the blast-resistant properties of large sizes, for example, after reaching an agreement with the client and the planner.
To ensure complete safety and security, all the building components – such as the frame profiles, glass, fittings, fixing materials and building structure – must be included in the planning phase. Schüco enables this by supplying all relevant system components as well as expert advice from a single source.
You can find further information as well as technical data on the XR series at in Architect Information 04 for mechanical security or in the 3-3 order and fabrication manual. This also contains the technical data on the Schüco AWS 70.HI, Royal S 70DH Door and FW 60+ systems tested in accordance with US-GSA regulations.
Schüco – System solutions for windows, doors, façades and solar products
Together with its worldwide network of partners, architects, specifiers and investors, Schüco creates sustainable building envelopes which focus on people and their needs in harmony with nature and technology. The highest demands for design, comfort and security can be met, whilst simultaneously reducing CO2 emissions through energy efficiency, thereby conserving natural resources. The company and its Metal, PVC-U and New Energies divisions deliver tailored products for newbuilds and renovations, designed to meet individual user needs in all climate zones. With 5000 employees and 12,000 partner companies, Schüco is active in 78 countries and achieved a turnover of 1.8 billion euros in 2012. With 5000 employees and 12,000 partner companies, Schüco is active in 78 countries and achieved a turnover of 1.8 billion euros in 2012. For more information, visit
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Schüco International KG
Ulrike Krüger
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Picture credits: Schüco International KG
Arena air-blast test in accordance with ISO 16933
Impact of the shock wave
Maximum deflection of the façade units