A click-together cladding system from Sabic is configured to help architects and builders enhance sustainable building design.

Sabic Innovative Plastics (SIP) now offers its Lexan Thermoclick polycarbonate cladding system for building façades in 1000mm wide sheets of 50mm gauge. The product is intended to conserve energy while improving living and working environments.

SIP claims high insulative performance for Lexan Thermoclick 50 mm, with a “very low” U-value (building element thermal conductance parameter) of 1.0W/m2K – said to reduce energy consumption by up to 17% versus traditional double-pane glass glazing.

The company attributes an “affordable” system cost to requiring only half as many panels as with the traditional 500mm width, reducing labour requirements and saving time. Because of its “excellent” loading performance, the product requires fewer support elements such as beams and fixing keys.

In the 9-element sheet construction some elements are placed diagonally, creating a cross-braced “X-structure” for strength and impact resistance. Ultraviolet radiation protection is provided on the outer surface.

With a V-joint connection profile, including a snap-in groove configuration, Lexan Thermoclick’s mode of connection obviates the need for vertical profiles, thereby reducing cost and enhancing aesthetics, according to SIP. High stiffness and “virtual unbreakability” are also claimed.

Paul Hakvoort, general manager and co-owner of Dutch natural lighting specialist Hakvoort Daglicht, says: “Cladding and façades have an important influence on the character of a building. Good design offers a high-quality experience in terms of temperature, lighting and acoustics.

“SIP’s transparent Thermoclick system meets our customers’ aesthetic requirements with a range of beautiful colours and effects. Assembly is straightforward, and there is a potential reduction in energy demand for interior lighting, and through improved insulation.”