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Forster thermfix® vario Steel Fire-Resistive Frames deliver maximum protection with the slimmest profiles in North America.
The Forster thermfix®vario system offers an advanced fire-resistive solution for North American large-scale glazing projects, certified for 60 to 120-minute durations. As a UL 263 and ASTM E119 listed wall assembly, it is not subject to standard opening-protective size restrictions, allowing for expansive, multi-story glass applications. This thermally broken steel framing is rigorously tested for air and water infiltration, making it an ideal choice for high-performance exterior curtain walls as well as sophisticated interior partitions.
Designed with narrow 1-3/4″ or 2-3/8″ profiles, the system utilizes ultra-clear, low-iron AGC Pyrobel® glass to maximize natural light while ensuring critical hose-stream and positive-pressure safety. To facilitate streamlined construction, McGrory Glass provides fully fabricated K/D assemblies that are compatible with both Forster presto and Forster fuego® light door systems for a cohesive, code-compliant building envelope.
 Target Environment |
 Key Threat Mitigation |
 Visual Goal |
|---|---|---|
Exterior Building Facades | 60-120 minute fire-resistive protection (ASTM E119/UL 263) and air/water infiltration resistance. | Welcoming, transparent first impression with thermally broken steel and expansive glass. |
Multi-Story Atriums | Fire-resistive wall assembly certification (UL 263) allowing for floor-to-ceiling spans. | High natural light for student/occupant wellness with ultra-clear AGC Pyrobel® glazing. |
Secure Transit Hubs | Multi-hazard protection including fire-resistance and bullet-resistant options. | Clear views of campus/public areas for staff awareness via narrow 1-3/4″ or 2-3/8″ profiles. |
Critical Safety Corridors | Positive-pressure and hose-stream resistance for internal fire separation. | Modern, open architectural aesthetics using custom cover caps and various finishes. |
Attributes
-
Fire -
Thermally Broken Steel Framing -
UItra-Clear Large Panels -
Hose Stream Tested -
Bullet-Resistant Options -
TGIC-Free Powder Color Options -
Intertek Listed -
LEED
Forster thermfix® vario by McGrory Glass is available in brushed stainless steel or RAL powder colors, both standard and custom to match your desired color scheme.
Why choose Forster thermfix® vario steel fire-rated framing by McGrory Glass?
Advanced Fire-Resistive Wall Assembly
Intertek-listed for 60 to 120-minute fire ratings and is classified as a fire-resistive wall assembly under UL 263 and ASTM E119. Because it meets these stringent North American wall standards, the system is not subject to standard opening-protective size restrictions. This allows for the design of massive glass facades that block the transfer of radiant heat and ensure critical life safety.
Thermally Broken for Energy Efficiency
Features a specialized thermally broken steel construction designed to optimize building energy performance, making it an excellent choice for exterior curtain wall applications where maintaining a thermal barrier is essential to prevent heat loss or gain. It allows architects to meet rigorous environmental codes while utilizing the inherent strength of a steel frame.
Expansive Glazing with Low-Iron Clarity
The system utilizes large individual panes of AGC Pyrobel® Fire-Resistive Glass to create breathtaking, transparent spans. This ultra-clear, low-iron glazing provides superior visual quality and maximizes natural light transmission throughout a structure. Designers can achieve expansive glass areas up to 7,200 square inches per pane, depending on the specific minute rating required.
Rugged Exterior Performance and Testing
Engineered for the demanding North American climate, this system is rigorously tested for air and water infiltration. It meets high-performance standards, including ASTM E283-04, ASTM E331, and AAMA 501.1-05 for water penetration and structural integrity. These certifications ensure that the curtain wall remains durable and weather-tight in both interior and exterior environments.
Sleek, Narrow Architectural Profiles
Despite its heavy-duty performance, the system maintains incredibly narrow sightlines with both 1-3/4″ and 2-3/8″ profiles available. This minimalist aesthetic allows the fire-rated curtain wall to blend seamlessly with non-rated architectural framing. Additionally, custom cover caps are available to provide a tailored finish that meets specific project design requirements.
Seamless System Compatibility
Forster thermfix®vario is designed to be fully compatible with both Forster Presto and Forster Fuego Light door systems. This integration allows for a unified aesthetic across an entire project, from entryways to expansive wall partitions. To ensure precision and ease of installation, McGrory Glass supplies the frames as fully fabricated K/D (knock-down) assemblies.
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Technical Data
The Forster thermfix®vario steel fire-rated curtain wall system by McGrory Glass provides high-performance thermal and fire-resistive capabilities for expansive architectural designs.
| Minute Rating | Make-up | Finishes | Applications | Max Exposed Glass Area by Frame | Max Exposed Glass – Single Dimension | Max Frame Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
60 minute | Steel | • Brushed/Polished Stainless Steel Cladding • TGIC-Free-Powder-Coat Colors (Stock & Custom) | Interior Exterior | 7200 in2 | 120″ | N/A |
90 minute | Steel | • Brushed/Polished Stainless Steel Cladding • TGIC-Free-Powder-Coat Colors (Stock & Custom) | Interior Exterior | 7200 in2 | 120″ | N/A |
Listings & Test References
ASTM
AAMA
NFPA
UL
ULC
Product Certification Testing References
- ASTM E119: Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials
- AAMA 501.1-05: Test method that defines the equipment and procedures to assess the water penetration resistance of windows, curtain walls, and doors under the effect of strong wind and high pressure
- AAMA 501.4-01: Outlines the recommended static test method for evaluating the performance of curtain wall and storefront systems when subjected to horizontal seismic and wind-induced interstory drift
- NFPA 80: Standard for Fire Doors and Fire Windows
- UL UL 263: Standard for Positive Pressure Fire Tests of Door Assemblies
- ULC S101: Standard Methods of Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials
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