Thermal Break Profiles
QUALICOAT-certified aluminum profiles with polyamide thermal break inserts — engineered for energy-efficient windows, doors, and curtain wall systems.
Stopping Heat In Its
Tracks
Thermal break profiles use a polyamide strip — specifically PA66 GF25, a glass-fiber-reinforced nylon — inserted between the inner and outer aluminum chambers to interrupt thermal conductivity. Aluminum is an excellent conductor of heat, which is a liability in fenestration applications where you want the outside temperature to stay outside.
The polyamide strip acts as a thermal barrier, dramatically reducing the heat transfer coefficient (Psi value) of the profile. The result is a window or facade system that prevents heat loss in winter, reduces heat gain in summer, eliminates surface condensation, and meets modern building energy codes (including EN ISO 10077 and equivalent standards).
CANEX manufactures the aluminum extrusion and performs the thermal break insertion entirely in-house using shrink-fitting equipment. This integration means we control profile geometry, strip width, insertion quality, and surface finish — all under one roof, with no outsourcing.
The Thermal Break Process
The thermal break profile is produced in three distinct stages — all performed in-house at CANEX. Each stage is quality-controlled before the next begins.
01
Extrude Inner & Outer Chambers
The inner and outer aluminum sections are extruded to precise tolerances on our 22 MN or 27 MN press. The channel geometry is designed to accept the polyamide strip with exact interference fit.
02
Shrink-Fit Polyamide Strip
The PA66 GF25 polyamide strip is inserted and locked between the two aluminum sections using our in-house shrink-fitting equipment. The strip creates a permanent, structural thermal barrier.
03
Quality Test & Finish
Each batch is tested for dimensional accuracy, bond integrity, and thermal performance. Profiles are then powder coated or wood-effect finished to specification and inspected before dispatch.
Specifications &
Standards
CANEX thermal break profiles meet or exceed the performance requirements of European and North American fenestration standards.
| Profile System | Thermally broken aluminum extrusion |
| Polyamide Strip | PA66 GF25 (standard); custom widths available |
| Insertion Method | In-house shrink fitting |
| Alloys | 6063, 6060 (standard for fenestration) |
| Tempers | T5, T6 |
| Certifications | QUALICOAT Seaside (coating); AAMA (performance) |
| Surface Options | Powder coating (all RAL), wood effect sublimation, mill finish |
| Strip Widths | 24 mm, 28 mm, 34 mm (standard); custom on request |
| Applications | Windows, doors, curtain walls, skylights, facades |
Why Thermal Break Matters
The polyamide thermal break delivers three critical performance benefits that standard aluminum profiles cannot match — and that modern building codes increasingly mandate.
Thermal Insulation
The PA66 GF25 polyamide strip has a thermal conductivity approximately 1,000× lower than aluminum. This dramatically reduces the overall Uf (frame heat transfer coefficient), improving building energy ratings and reducing HVAC load.
Condensation Prevention
By raising the interior surface temperature of the frame above the dew point, thermal break profiles eliminate condensation on window and door frames — preventing mold growth and protecting interior finishes.
Building Code Compliance
Thermal break profiles are required or recommended by energy efficiency codes in Europe (EN ISO 10077), North America (AAMA), and increasingly in Gulf and Middle East markets. CANEX profiles meet these standards.
Quality Certified
CANEX holds the most demanding quality certifications for thermal break aluminum profiles — giving architects, contractors, and developers independent assurance of performance.
QUALICOAT Seaside
The highest level of QUALICOAT certification — Seaside class — confirms that CANEX powder coating is specifically qualified for profiles installed in aggressive coastal environments with salt-laden air. Covers pretreatment, powder application, and curing.
AAMA Certified
American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) certification confirms the coating system meets North American architectural aluminum performance standards — critical for projects targeting US, Canadian, or export markets with AAMA specifications.
Where Thermal Break Excels
Thermal break aluminum profiles are specified wherever energy efficiency, condensation control, and occupant comfort are design priorities.
Residential Windows & Doors
Commercial Facade Systems
Curtain Wall & Unitized Facades
Skylights & Roof Glazing
Cold-Climate Construction
Passive House Systems
Hotel & High-Rise Projects
Healthcare & Education Buildings
Get a quote for your specific requirements. Our engineering team responds within 48 hours.