Aluminium Composite Panels
In this article, we will talk about aluminum composite panels which are normally used for interior and exterior applications within a building.
Here, we would like to mention that the short form of aluminum panels is ACP, and it is also referred to as a Sandwich Panel.
A company known as 3A Composites was responsible for introducing aluminum panels in 1964 as a joint invention with BASF.
Aluminum composite panels are actually composite materials in which Fire Retardant Core Material or Thermoplastic Polyethylene core is sandwiched between two thin sheets of aluminum.
Polyethylene will not be able to resist fire and, on the other hand, it will ignite and spread the fire.
It is imperative to make sure that the core material is fire-resistant before purchasing aluminum composite panels.
Polyethylene core panels are utilized in type C construction projects.
What exactly is a type C construction project? Construction projects are classified into 3 types, type A, type B, as well as type C.
Type A will be able to cover buildings above 4 floors, and it is the most fire-resistant form of construction.
On the other hand, type B is used to cover 3 storied buildings, and type C happens to be the least fire-resistant form of construction which will cover one and two-story buildings.
It has been found from previous experiences that during a fire, aluminum composite panels featuring plastic polyethylene core catches fire quite quickly.
As a result, the usage of aluminum composite panels with plastic polyethylene core in the UAE is banned.
ACP with a fire-resistant mineral-filled core material will be used in most cases.
Here, it is vital to comprehend that you will not come across any ACP that is absolutely fireproof.
On the other hand, it is just fire code compliant.
Aluminum comes with a low melting point of approximately 660 degrees Celsius. However, the temperatures will be approximately 800 to 900 degrees Celsius at the time of fire.
It’ll be enough to ignite the core after melting the aluminum skin.
It’ll be possible to coat the aluminum sheets with Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), Fluoropolymer resins (FEVE), or Polyester Paint.
The standard thicknesses which are available in ACP are 3 mm, 4 mm, and 6 mm.
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Uses of Aluminium Composite Panels
On most occasions, aluminum composite panels are utilized for external cladding or facades of buildings, canopies, signage, shop fronts, shopping malls, bars and hotels, commercial buildings, offices, and so on.
Besides this, we also make use of ACP in interior applications like false ceilings, wall coverings, wardrobes, cupboards, modular kitchens, column covers, table tops, etc.
Aluminum composite panels are likewise used in the aircraft industry where weight-saving and mechanical performance are important.
Benefits of Aluminium Composite Panels
Aluminum composite panel is more flexible than any other material out there.
Moreover, they can also produce designs that might not be possible with other materials.
Being extremely light in weight, it is also quite rigid, strong, as well as durable.
It is extremely flexible and quite simple to work with.
Moreover, one will not find it difficult to install it, and that too, within a short span of time.
Unlike other options available on the market, aluminum composite panels are extremely economical cladding materials.
Also, it will provide you with an extensive array of textures and colors.
It is likewise chemical resistant as well as UV resistant.
Furthermore, being environmentally friendly, it is fully recyclable. On most occasions, the panels are made from approximately 85% recycled aluminum material.
Aluminum composite panels happen to be termite and fungi-resistant.
It is also unbreakable, weather-resistant, as well as stain resistant. You will find these panels in approximately 40 different colors, and these can also be customized to match your building application.
It is possible to use aluminum to replicate the texture and color of wood and natural stone very efficiently.
It has also got a smooth surface finish.
Drawbacks
Aluminum composite panels are vulnerable to dents during hurricanes and storms.
Certain manufacturers of these panels further reinforce them specially to prevent these sorts of damages.
It is important to seal the joints carefully and perform waterproofing meticulously so that there is no possibility of water penetrating the building while it is raining.
Warranty of Aluminium Composite Panels
In most cases, companies usually provide a warranty of 5 years to 10 years when it comes to aluminum composite panels; however, at present, some companies also provide a warranty of 15 years to 20 years.
Installation of Aluminium Composite Panels
Aluminum composite panels can be installed in various ways.
However, it will depend on the position where these panels are getting installed.
It depends on whether it is an interior surface or an exterior surface.
In this particular method, ACP sheets are joined at the base with the help of adhesives.
Cladding will be the usual method of installing aluminum composite panels, in which case the holes will be drilled in the wall, and aluminum frameworks will be constructed using screws.
Following this, the aluminum composite panel sheets will be either screwed or hung on the framework in such a manner that it will not be possible to see the screws from outside.
Moreover, a silicon gasket will be used to fill the gap between 2 sheets.
Cleaning and maintenance of Aluminium Composite Panels
Make use of a mild standard detergent and the cleaning has to be done with a comprehensive rinse of clean water so that there are no stains.
Use a sponge or other absorbent materials to dry the panels.
Cost Or Price of Aluminium Composite Panels
There are many things on which the cost of aluminum composite panels is going to depend.
For example, it will depend on its overall thickness, skin thickness, core material, coatings, and so on.
However, roughly, the cost of a 3 mm fireproof aluminum composite panel sheet with Polyethylene core and PVDF coating will be obtainable on the market at 135/- INR per square foot.
