| Material Density | Approximately 2.70 g/cm³ | Aluminum is significantly lighter than steel, helping reduce the weight of the moving door panel and the load transferred to rollers and tracks. | Lower panel weight can support smoother manual operation, but glass thickness, hardware, panel size, and reinforcement must also be included in the total weight calculation. |
| Specific Strength | High strength-to-weight ratio; common architectural alloys are often selected in the 6000 series | Profiles can provide useful structural stiffness without requiring excessively heavy framing, supporting large glazed openings and durable panel construction. | Actual strength depends on alloy, temper, profile geometry, span, joint design, and fastening method. |
| Elastic Modulus | Approximately 69 GPa | The stiffness of aluminum helps the frame resist bending under glass weight, wind pressure, and normal operating loads. | Profile depth, wall thickness, reinforcement, and maximum unsupported span are often more important than material strength alone. |
| Thermal Conductivity | Approximately 205 W/(m·K) for commercially pure aluminum | Aluminum conducts heat efficiently, allowing thermal energy to move rapidly through the frame when no thermal break is used. | For conditioned buildings, thermally broken profiles with polyamide separators or similar insulating components can significantly reduce frame heat transfer. |
| Thermal Expansion | Approximately 23.1 µm/(m·K) | The frame can accommodate predictable dimensional movement caused by temperature changes when the system is correctly detailed. | Allowances at joints, compatible fasteners, and correct track tolerances help prevent binding during seasonal temperature changes. |
| Corrosion Resistance | A naturally forming aluminum oxide layer provides basic protection | Aluminum profiles can perform well in humid environments when the alloy, finish, drainage, and detailing are appropriately selected. | Anodizing or powder coating can improve surface durability and appearance; avoid direct contact with incompatible metals without suitable isolation. |
| Surface Finishing Options | Anodized, powder-coated, or mill-finished surfaces | Finishing options help provide consistent appearance, color selection, and additional surface protection for frequently handled door frames. | Finish selection should consider ultraviolet exposure, coastal conditions, cleaning chemicals, and the required appearance warranty. |
| Dimensional Consistency | Extrusion allows repeatable, continuous profile geometry | Consistent profile dimensions support accurate alignment of glazing beads, gaskets, rollers, locks, and interlocking stiles. | Fabrication accuracy, corner joints, cutting tolerances, and installation quality directly affect the final sliding action. |
| Track and Roller Compatibility | Profiles can be engineered with integrated or replaceable hardware channels | Purpose-designed channels help position rollers and tracks accurately, supporting stable movement and easier hardware replacement. | Roller capacity must be rated above the calculated panel weight, with allowance for dynamic loads and long-term wear. |
| Weather Management | Profiles can incorporate seals, drainage paths, and interlocking sections | Integrated chambers and drainage routes help manage rainwater and improve resistance to air and water infiltration. | Weather performance depends on the complete door system, including gaskets, brush seals, weep holes, joints, sill design, and installation. |
| Recyclability | Aluminum can be recycled repeatedly without losing its fundamental material properties | Recyclability can reduce end-of-life material waste and supports circular material management when frames are properly separated and collected. | Coatings, thermal breaks, sealants, glass, and mixed hardware should be considered during disassembly and recycling planning. |
| Maintenance Requirement | Routine cleaning, drainage inspection, and hardware lubrication are typically required | The non-porous metal surface is easy to clean, while accessible hardware channels can simplify inspection and adjustment. | Keep tracks free of debris, maintain drainage openings, and follow the hardware supplier’s lubrication recommendations. |