Engineering Method for Calculating Temperature Deformations of PVC Window Profiles with a Reinforcing Steel Core

Abstract

In current engineering practice, static calculation of windows for temperature loads is not performed. However, the existing experience in operating PVC windows in environmental conditions of Eastern and Northern Europe shows that the temperature deformation of such structures can reach values comparable to those of wind loads, which leads to a significant reduction in their technical and operational characteristics. Temperature deformations of windows can be assessed during laboratory tests. However, such tests are not representative. In this regard, it is necessary to develop an engineering method for calculating temperature deformations of windows. In this study, the authors present the results of the analysis of temperature deformations of PVC window profiles. The investigations were divided into several stages. First, the authors numerically analysed the character of temperature distribution over the cross section of PVC window profiles. Then, they theoretically substantiated the bending deformations of PVC window profiles disregarding the reinforcing steel core. Next, the authors considered the patterns of bending deformations of PVC window profiles, taking into account the presence of a reinforcing steel core in various schemes of their connection to each other. The authors also analysed the effect of the temperature dependence of the mechanical properties of PVC on the deformation of window profiles. The character of torsional temperature deformations of PVC window profiles was also studied. As a result of this investigation, the authors proposed a simplified analytical and numerical method for calculating the temperature deformations of PVC window profiles with a reinforcing steel core. The authors have used the proposed methods to calculate the temperature deformations of PVC window mullions (vertical bars that divide the window into parts). These theoretical calculations were compared with the experimental investigations data on PVC windows and showed a fine precision of results (the discrepancy was 10.6%).