Airmax is a unique, new parallel opening window system from Reynaers Aluminium providing consistent air flow around all four edges of the open window.

When open, the parallel window allows air to penetrate around its entire perimeter facilitating highly efficient ventilation increasing air flow by almost double in comparison to a traditional top hung window. This in turn creates less draught within the room because the open space is more evenly distributed around the frame.

Although Airmax was initially developed to answer the specific ventilation needs for Building Schools For the Future it has since become clear that it is also ideal for hotels, hospitals as well as for residential buildings.

In terms of ventilation the Airmax Window System is highly efficient in comparison to a traditional top hung window and will naturally reduce the dependency on air conditioning systems.

A recent independent study, carried out by Arup on behalf of Securistyle Ltd, looked at research into the classroom environment and found greater, more efficient air mixing in the studied environment when using a parallel opening system as opposed to a traditional top hung window system. The study, based on models of a standard classroom with 30 children seated and 2 adults, also found that carbon dioxide levels were considerably reduced, falling to 575ppm with parallel windows as opposed to 757ppm for top hung.

Another significant benefit of the Reynaers Airmax System is the optimized safety and security that it offers as an intrinsic part of the window’s operation. The parallel opening is restricted to 100mm significantly increasing the security of the building, a particularly appropriate benefit for school buildings.

Using the parallel window model more even air temperatures were achieved throughout the room with a lower variation in stratification, taken as the temperature differential between head and ankles. Similarly, there were less concentrations of carbon dioxide in specific parts of the classroom with a more even distribution and considerably lower levels. This provides for a fresher teaching environment with the parallel window system in addition to a more even distribution of CO₂ concentrations. With top hung windows CO₂ concentrations were more prominent in specific areas.

Air change within the classroom was found to be almost twice the volume with the Airmax parallel opening windows and the upper open edge of the window facilitated greater air movement than was the case with the top hung window. This allows the effective passage of stale air out of the classroom enhancing and refreshing the environment.

Reynaers considerable research and development programme as well as constant system development ensures that products always aim to enhance the building environment.

“With our experience and our product range Reynaers are ideally positioned to provide the very best solutions, not only for the schools sector, but also for other projects,” commented Paul Duffy, Reynaers UK Head of Sales.

Reynaers Airmax is available as a stand alone window, but also as part of the popular Reynaers Curtain Wall Range. The system is aesthetically pleasing as the angle of the glass is maintained whether the windows are open or closed. This provides architects with greater freedom when designing a building.