Embodied energy analysis of aluminium-clad windows

Abstract

This article provides an overview of energy loads associated with the application of powder coated aluminium profiles on the exterior wooden surface of double glazed windows. The entire powder coating process has been analysed to measure its energy and environmental contribution towards window cladding. Materials involved in aluminium clad windows have been analysed for their energy impacts. The energy embodied in a standard double glazed 1.2 m × 1.2 m aluminium clad window has been calculated, and is quantified as 1459 MJ, 1967 MJ, and 5.96 GJ respectively for argon, krypton and xenon infill gases. The energy consumed in powder coating the window cladding has been estimated to be 27 MJ and the total embodied energy of adding aluminium cladding to the window has been evaluated as 724 MJ.