Verosol FR fabrics made
of Trevira CS fibers are permanently flame resistant. This flame resistance lasts for the
life of the fabric and it's unaffected by sunlight, washing or aging. Verosol fabrics made
of Trevira CS fibers also self-extinguish so the spread of fire is minimized. They also do
a superb job in controlling smoke generation.
Radiant Heat
Resistance
One of the major causes
of a fire spreading from floor to floor in a building is radiant heat. It played a
significant role in the devastating fires at the Las Vegas Hilton in 1981 and the First
Interstate Bank Building, Los Angeles in 1988.
Aluminum has a natural
ability to reflect heat to help protect against the damage radiant heat from fire. The
process of vacuum bonding is used to deposit an ultra-thin layer of aluminum to polyester
fabrics. Similar aluminized fabrics are now being used by forest firefighters, navy
firefighters, and in many high-heat industrial environments.
Metallized shades not
only have the capability to reflect radiant heat, but they will maintain that
capability for the life of the fabric. Tests and years of service have proven that the
aluminum backing on fabrics will not flake off, oxidize or discolor.
Radiant Heat Test
To evaluate the
effectiveness of aluminized shade in reducing heat and radiant energy from an exterior
fire, a test was developed by Koffel Associates, codes consultant to the National Glass
Association(NGA). Koffel Associates chose Southwest Research Institute (SWRI) to conduct
the test. It was carried out February 12, 1990. The results were impressive.
SWRI concluded that the
metallized shade "did significantly reduce the transmission of heat/radiant energy
into the simulated second story area." Koffel Associates said that the shade
"significantly reduced the potential for fire spread." Again quoting Koffel
Associates, "it is important to note that at no time did the shades ignite, even
after the section of glass fell out and exposed the shade to direct flame contact."
Dissecting Rising
Energy Costs
OEM has attractive and
effective solutions to control rising energy costs, in both summer and winter.
In hot weather, our
metallized fabrics can stop much of the solar heat gain from entering the building. Yet
the shades remain cool to the touch. In cold weather, our aluminum backing works as an
insulator and helps prevent radiant heat loss. It can effectively reduce heat loss at the
window.
As a result, metallized
fabric window-treatment systems help control room temperatures year-round. They help lower
the demand for heating and air conditioning, which lowers the required performance for
glazing and HVAC. Facility owners gain in two ways: smaller capital expenditures and
reduced energy costs year after year.
Measuring Window
Covering Performance
In warmer climates, OEM
window treatments reflect a greater amount of solar radiation, reducing the amount of heat
that enters a building and lowering cooling costs. For example, and unshaded 1/4 inch
thick window transmits approximately 87% of the solar radiation. A shaded window with an
OEM pleated shade allows approximately 32.5% to enter - a reduction of more than 50%.
Protection Against
Ultraviolet Ray Damage
The sun's ultraviolet
rays can cause severe fading of a buildings valuable furnishings, carpeting and artwork.
OEM's metallized fabrics can significantly reduce the intensity of ultraviolet rays that
are transmitted through a room's windows.
Pleated Shades softly filter light, while
helping to protect furnishings from UV rays.
