Metal section for framing panels - has hinged clamping flange formed reduced thickness hinge area

摘要

This metal section is designed to form a retaining frame for panels of glass, wood or steel and is typically of anodised aluminium because the distortions of the frame during insertion of the panel are carefully localised and controlled so that cracking of the anodised finish is prevented or invisible. This is achieved by forming the section with a longitudinal groove (6). The groove may be at the inside junction of the web (2) and the central flange or double U section of may be external on the web. The flanges of the U are divergent, before assembly, so that the panel (4) with peripheral sealing strips (5) may easily be inserted into the frame. After insertion, a press forces the flanges to grip the panel, all of the distortion of the frame occurring in the weak section formed by the groove.