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SKYTOP™

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Japan’s first permanent architectural fabric developed by Chukoh for membrane structures. It is a composite material produced by impregnating and sintering fluoroplastic on glass cloth (B yarn) by a unique method developed by Chukoh. Various types and grades are available according to the design and size of membrane structures.

Main applications

• Roofing materials
• Ceiling materials
• Interior materials

Operating temperature limit

-60℃ to +260℃

Structure

Characteristics

Non-flammable

The fluoroplastic membrane FGT series is a combination of PTFE with self-extinguishing property and glass cloth fiber with heat resistance. Because of the above reason, FGT series has been authorized as non-flammable material.

Sound absorbency

Since the fluoroplastic membrane of the interior material has the moderate pliability and permeability, you can increase the sound effects in the building if the interior material of the double membrane structure is used.

Toughness

Generally, as the diameter of the fiber decreases, the tensile strength per unit area increases. Fluoroplastics membrane uses B yarn which is the thinnest glass fiber in the world. It is a membrane material with enough strength and high safety.

Self-cleaning property

The dust and air contaminant deposited on the surface of the fluoroplastic membrane are washed away by the rain. Hence, no need for special cleaning and the beautiful appearance can be maintained for a long period of time.

Translucency

The natural light in the building through the fluoroplastics membrane is the natural diffused light and it creates a soft ambiance with few shadows.

Thermal characteristics

Since the fluoroplastic membrane reflects the most of solar energy, it can control the heat condition into the building. It is expected to improve heat insulating effect by making double membrane structures using fluoroplastic membranes of the interior material.

Weather resistance

The functionality and the safety of the roof materials are maintained over the years unaffected by ultra-violet rays and air pollution.

Grades

Typical properties

ItemFGT-1000FGT-800FGT-600FGT-250-1FGT-250A-1Test method
Thickness(mm)(nominal)1.000.800.600.350.40ISO 2286-3
Weight (g/m2)(nominal)170013001000470600ISO 2286-2
Tensile strength (N/2.5cm)(minimum)Warp44003520294019201640ASTM D 4851
Fill40002820235014401250
Tensile strength (N/5cm)(minimum)Warp82007000580036003000ISO 1421 or DIN 53354
Fill75006000460027002300
Tear strength (N)(minimum)Warp360260200170110ASTM D 4851
Fill40026020010080
Tear resistance (N)(minimum)Warp500400350280190DIN 53363
Fill550400380180140
Solar transmission after bleaching(%)(nominal)1012151918ASTM E 424
Solar reflectance after bleaching(%)(nominal)8280787878ASTM E 424
Air permeability (cm3/cm2・s)(nominal)8JIS L 1096
Sound absorption (NRC)(nominal)0.45JIS L 1096

*Values shown in this table represent measurements and do not constitute guaranteed values.

Obtained Certifications

Fire PerformanceFGT-1000FGT-800FGT-600FGT-250-1Test method
Incombustibility of substratesPassPassPassPassASTM E 136
Burning characteristicsFlame spread0000ASTM E 84
Smoke density15055
Fire resistance of roof coveringsClassAClassAClassAASTM E 108
Flame resistantLarge scalePassPassPassPassNFPA 701
Small scalePassPassPassPass
Non-combustibility of substratesPassPassPassBS 476 Part 4
IgnitabilityPPPBS 476 Part 5
Fire propagationI=3.5I=2.8I=2.2BS 476 Part 6
Spread of flameClass 1Class 1Class 1BS 476 Part 7
Incombustibility certificationPassPassPassPassBuilding Standard
Law of Japan
Fire behaviour of building materials
and elements
Class B1Class B1Class B1Class B1DIN 4102

※For other grades, please contact us.

Variety of membrane construction matter

Frame assembly membrane construction (fixed/ moveable)

The structure that the membrane materials are used as wall and roofing materials by forming the framework such as mountain shaped, arch shaped, and other solid-body with steel or other frames.

Suspension membrane construction (fixed/ moveable)

The membrane is used as the main material and the hung structure (suspension construction) is the basic formation.

Air pressurized membrane construction (fixed/ moveable)

Increasing the air pressure until the membrane stretches to a taut state by sending air into the membrane-covered space. The air-pressurized structure resists against external pressure and is free-standing.

Merits of membrane construction matter

Shortens construction time and lowers cost

Due to the light weight of SKYTOP™ (about 1/30th of the mass of a traditional steel roof), wall and foundation construction costs can be reduced. Furthermore, as the cutting and joining of the materials is done before hand, on-site construction is simplified and the time period shortened.

Economizing of energy cost

SKYTOP™ displays a high rate of sun reflection and low absorption. With just a low volume of heat, penetrating solar energy can be controlled. Also, due to the semi-transparent nature of the membrane, artificial daytime illumination becomes unnecessary making substantial energy cost efficient.

Stretching the imagination with freedom of design

With membrane construction matter, an insulated space can be achieved generally without using an internal support element. This unique trait allows free planning and makes the application of a variety of spatial designs possible.

Natural lighting makes for a comfortable space

The sunlight which permeates SKYTOP™ is naturally diffused and casts few shadows. Same as the outdoors, the original color tone of objects is obtained. It is possible to gain enough solar intensity that the insulated space be suitable for the cultivation of plants; and a space with the agreeable sensation of being outdoors can be produced.

Always pristine appearance

Due to the water repellency and anti-adhesive properties of fluoroplastic, accumulated dirt and atmospheric filth is washed away by the rain. This will continuously preserve a clean, white appearance.

Actual example of SKYTOP™

View an actual examples of fluoropolymer membrane use.

Actual example of SKYTOP™

Contact Information

Feel free to contact us for various inquiries, questions, or to request materials.