THERMALLY BROKEN WINDOWS

Protect people while reducing heating and cooling costs. Our thermally broken frames keep out bullets while improving energy performance.

BALLISTIC PROTECTION MEETS ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Ballistic windows and frames are thick by design, making them efficient conductors of heat or cold. As a result, condensation or frost builds up on the glass, making it harder to maintain temperature inside the building and even contributing to higher energy bills.

TSS's thermally broken framing system (650 TB) is engineered for both bullet resistance and thermal performance in exterior windows and doors. The aluminum window frame has a non-conductive barrier between the interior and exterior sections to prevent heat or cold from traveling through.

THERMALLY BROKEN FRAMING SPECIFICATIONS

Our thermally broken framing system is available in configurations that can be tested to UL 752 Levels 3 through 8. This makes it ideal for a wide range of applications, from school entryways and government buildings to healthcare facilities and corporate campuses.

It fits ballistic glazing 1 ¼” to 3 ¼” thick and is available in a clear or dark bronze finish.

It has also been tested to the following standards:

UL 752 Standard for Bullet Resistant Materials
ASTM E283 Standard Test Method for Determining Rate of Air Leakage Through Exterior Windows and Doors
ASTM E331 Standard Test Method for Water Penetration of Exterior Windows and Doors
ASTM B221 Standard Specification for Aluminum and Aluminum Allow Extruded Bars, Rods, Wires, Profiles and Tubes
ASTM B209 Standard Specification for Aluminum and Aluminum-Alloy Sheet and Plate

Download the spec sheet to learn more about its properties.

Start Planning Your Project

Every building has different security, operations, and design needs as well as compliance considerations. Our team will help you identify the right framing system for your application and provide the documentation your project needs. We'll handle everything from design, fabrication and assembly to delivery and installation. Most of our projects are installed the same day they're delivered.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do thermally broken windows work?

Thermally broken windows have a “thermal break”, typically made from reinforced polymer or polyamide, inserted between the interior and exterior sections. This non-conductive barrier prevents heat or cold from traveling through the frame. The result is a drier, more comfortable interior environment.

What are the benefits of thermally broken windows?

Thermally broken windows reduce condensation, which can lead to mold and deteriorate the frame. This can impact the performance of a ballistic frame specifically designed and tested to protect people. Frames with thermal breaks hold up better over time against the freeze-thaw cycles that cause long-term wear on exterior installations.They can also keep out heat or cold, keeping buildings more comfortable, reducing energy costs and potentially reducing noise.

Who needs thermally broken frames?

Thermally broken ballistic frames are ideal for buildings in hot or cold climates or projects that need to meet certain energy codes, such as ASHRAE 90.1 and the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), which set requirements for fenestration U-factors and thermal performance. Other compliance requirements include California's Title 24 energy code, which sets specific U-value and solar heat gain requirements. A thermally broken ballistic frame can help you meet both ballistic and energy compliance requirements with a single system.

How long do thermal windows and frames last?

With proper installation and maintenance, thermally broken aluminum frames can last 30 years or more. Aluminum is naturally resistant to corrosion, warping, and wear — and the thermal break material is engineered to hold up through decades of freeze-thaw cycles without degrading or losing its insulating properties.

Can the thermally broken framing system be used with TSS insulated ballistic glass?

Yes. Thermally broken frames are designed with insulated ballistic glass in mind. Insulated ballistic glass is made of two laminated panes separated by an air gap. However, it does not need to be used with this glass specifically.

What doors does the thermal framing system support?

Our thermally broken frames support our 2 3/8 inch thick aluminum door, designed to be tested to UL Levels 1-6, and our 4-inch thick aluminum door tested to UL Levels 7-8.

Is this framing system only for new construction, or can it be added to existing ballistic windows that already have a ballistic frame?

Our framing system is most commonly used for new construction and designed to an opening that is at least 6 1/2 inches thick. It is not designed to fit into an existing system.

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Protect People and Lower Your Energy Bills

Total Security Solutions has protected more than 30,000 buildings, including many in very cold or hot climates. Our team will help you find the right framing system for your project, provide the specification documents you need, and support you through fabrication and installation.

To get started, contact us or request a quote.