Ultraflex vs. Mechanical Systems

The chemical bond between the sealant, frame and the glass provides an even support throughout the perimeter. Mechanical systems can fail at points where the screws hold the film in place. The pressures of an air blast or wind load will naturally expand the film creating a thinner film at the point of mechanical fixture. The 3M Ultraflex System allows the pressure to be evenly distributed thus reducing the potential for structural failure.

The 3M Ultraflex System consisting of 3M Ultra 600™ Safety and Security Film as well as the 3M Ultraflex Fastening System willl meet or exceed all requirements providing the most positive and effective solution to protecting your environment and reinforcing your buildings envelope against potential blast threat or high wind loads.

The 3M Ultraflex System allows for elongation of both the laminate as well as the Dow 995 product. This is critical during cycling of positive and negative pressures associated with high winds and blast.

The 3M Ultraflex System is architecturally pleasing and has no additional mechanical bracing screws and cover plates are required.

The 3M Ultraflex System will not reduce daylight through the windows. Mechanical Systems can reduce the amount of window daylight by as much as two inches. This area would be required for bracing systems if installed on four points of the window, vertical and horizontal.

The 3M Ultraflex System enables you to retain your current window treatments and custom blinds. Mechanical fastening systems by reducing the window daylighting can often obsolete existing treatments that were specifically designed for your facility. The seamless appearance of 3M Ultraflex System can reduce unnecessary expenditure for new treatments.

The 3M Ultraflex System reduces manual labor cost associated with the installation of a mechanical batten system. This is a significant impact on ROI considerations. The labor-intensive installation of mechanical battens requires cost and materials associated with the aluminum flanges, drilling and fastening screws. The 3M Ultraflex System is much less labor intensive and therefore less costly to the purchaser.

3M Ultraflex Systems may be added at a later date. The initial installation can be a daylight application that meets the GSA Level 3 B Standard on certain windows and frames. This allows for an immediate security benefit and a lower initial investment cost.