When it comes to building components, especially windows and doors, durability and long-term performance are critical factors. Whether in residential homes or commercial buildings, doors and windows are subjected to constant use and exposure to environmental factors. Ensuring that these components remain functional and reliable over time requires rigorous testing, and cyclic testing plays a vital role in evaluating their durability.

What is Cyclic Testing?

Cyclic testing simulates the wear and tear that windows and doors undergo over extended periods of use. By repeatedly opening and closing components under controlled conditions, the test mimics years of daily operation. This process helps evaluate how well windows and doors can withstand both low and high-frequency operation cycles, providing valuable insights into their longevity and overall performance.

DOOR Cyclic Testing

Windows Cyclic Testing

For our products at Druet, we conduct this type of testing on both window and door systems, including designs tailored to high-traffic areas. This allows us to assess their ability to withstand extreme conditions and frequent use, ensuring they continue to function effectively in both residential and commercial applications.

Why is Cyclic Testing Important for Our Products?

Our energy-efficient windows and high-quality doors are designed to meet the unique needs of various climates, especially in North America. Cyclic testing is essential to ensure that these products can handle the stresses associated with frequent opening and closing, as well as exposure to external weather conditions.

For example, our thermal-insulated windows are subjected to numerous cycles to evaluate how well they retain their insulating properties even after extensive use. This testing also evaluates the sealing performance, ensuring that energy efficiency is maintained throughout the product’s lifespan. The goal is to guarantee that our windows and doors can continue to provide both comfort and security, while maintaining their performance in high-use environments.

Applications of Cyclic Testing for Different Traffic Levels

According to the EN 12400 standard, cyclic testing classifies windows and doors into different durability classes, based on the expected traffic level:

Class 1: Designed for light use with 5,000 cycles.

Class 3: Suitable for moderate traffic with 20,000 cycles.

Class 8: Built for high-traffic areas, tested for up to 1,000,000 cycles.

At Druet, we ensure that our windows and doors are tested according to these classifications, making them suitable for various environments—whether it’s a residential setting with moderate use or a commercial building with heavy foot traffic.

Monitoring Key Parameters During Testing

During cyclic testing, several critical parameters are closely monitored to assess the functionality and performance of the components:

Operating Force: This measures the effort needed to operate the window or door. An increase in operating force may indicate potential failure, even if no visible damage is present.

Deformation and Displacement: Any structural shifts or warping could affect the performance of the product. This is particularly important for doors and windows with heavy glass elements or intricate hardware.

We use advanced sensors and monitoring equipment to track these parameters in real-time, ensuring that every window and door meets our strict quality standards.

Ensuring Quality and Reliability

Cyclic testing is not just about passing a test—it’s about ensuring that our products can provide long-lasting reliability and maintain functionality under stress. By simulating years of use, we ensure that our products not only meet but exceed industry standards for performance and durability. This is especially crucial for high-traffic commercial projects where performance cannot be compromised.

Whether for residential or commercial buildings, Druet is committed to offering high-quality, reliable, and energy-efficient windows and doors. By investing in rigorous testing processes, we ensure our products provide optimal performance, safety, and energy savings throughout their lifespan.

Conclusion

Cyclic testing is a crucial part of the product development process, ensuring that windows and doors can withstand long-term use and high-traffic conditions. For Druet, it is integral to our commitment to quality, durability, and customer satisfaction. We continue to push the boundaries of innovation, testing, and quality assurance to provide our customers with the best products available.

For more information on our windows and doors, feel free to reach out. We are here to help you choose the right products for your next project.