Cassette panel is a hook-on metal cladding system, which can be easily utilized for both external and internal applications. This panel is extremely versatile and can be applied in multiple directions to a variety of substrates such as plywood, concrete, glass, etc. This modern-looking system is suitable for vertical and horizontal constructions on low to high-rise buildings for both new and renovation projects. The panels are bent and fixed with invisible clips and top hats to an aluminum frame, which has load-bearing structure security. Cassette panels are considered as an open jointed system and follow the rain screen systems, which means they are installed in a way that they can have ventilated airspace.
Cassettes, which are used in the façade sector, are produced from the development of components, which are utilized in large areas, and they are made for particularly fast and as a result cost-effective assembly. In addition, sheet metal is used in cassettes in order to reduce the cost alternative to any composite cladding system. However, unlike sheet metal cladding, this system does not require silicone or caulking during application. With the help of a patented mounting system, the panels can easily and quickly be snapped into a specific place, moving from bottom to top. For additional flair, pre-fabricated flashings and trims are recommended which can fit onto any channel. This type of cladding offers an innovative façade solution, which brings a flat and modern appearance. There are installed on an appropriate substructure and generate futuristic, technological visual effects which are suitable for administrative buildings and commercial facilities. This system is generally specified for designs, which demand larger lengths or widths in comparison to normal panels.
Basics of Horizontal Cassette Panel System
As it is obvious from the name, horizontal cassette systems are mounted and installed from bottom to top. The panels are indirectly attached in concealed areas. This will give the builder the required freedom for creating all stylistic aspects when it comes to utilizing this type of system. Horizontal cassette panels are often made in a way to have 25mm depth and a fixed, specified shadow gap with 20mm diameter. These diameters’ values are mirrored by the rail, which is used for fastening and is an important forming part of the system. Cassette panel system is suitable for constructing external claddings which have lengths of up to 3,000mm. The system façade grid can be chosen and installed equivalent to the need and demand of the customer.
Installation of Cassette Panels
Before installing cassette panels in your building, there are some safety precautions to take.
- The manufacturer and supplier provide the installation instruction and user manuals of cassette panel systems. The panel system must be installed following the manual for the best results and proper operation.
- It is crucial to follow the local laws, codes, regulations, and national electrical codes.
- If there is a refrigerant leak during the installation process, you should ventilate the area. Ensure that the refrigerant does not come in contact with a flame as it will produce toxic gases.
- It is essential to disconnect all electrical power to outdoor and indoor units until the system is ready for checkout.
- During the installation process, the only usable refrigerant is R410A
Required Tool for Installing Cassette Panels
Professional cassette panel installers use various industrial tools to provide the best system for you. However, there are some essential tools that the installation process of cassette panels requires, which are:
- Standard Wrench
- Adjustable or Cresent Wrench
- Torque Wrench
- Allen Wrenches or Hex Keys
- Drill and Drill Bits
- Hole Saw
- Pipe Cutter
- Screw Drivers
- Gauges and Manifold
- Level
- R410A Flaring Tool
- Clamp-on Amp Meter
- Vacuum Pump
- Safety Glasses or Goggles
- Working Gloves
- Refrigerant Scale
- Micron Guage
The Installation Process
Installing procedure of cassette panels requires establishing the positioning of elements, which are used in the framework. In the framework process, exact measurements and quantity of panels which includes length, width, and center-to-center height are required. Typical cassettes have an up-stand at the top and it is fixed to the framework with clips and another up-stand that is at the bottom, which locates into the clips on the previous panel. For the panels, which are longer than 1.5m horizontally, slotting for fixing is needed in order to have expansion tolerance. Fixing clips are tested and designed to be compatible with the design and performance basis of the application or project. These clips are dual-functional. These functions are ensuring the lift-up resistance and adding free expansion space to the cladding and the metal.
Cassette Panel Primary Advantages and Benefits
Like other metal cladding systems, cassette claddings offer various advantages and benefits for homeowners. Here are some essential advantages of cassette panels that you should consider when choosing your building cladding material.
Structural Stability
The Cassette panel system needs a heavier gauge material and can be installed using aluminum clips and can take aluminum top had substructure. This gives the system overall structural stability. The interlocking system, which is a solid panel installing method directly onto a galvanized top hat and then fixed firmly on the base element of the building, can extremely increase the stability.
Elegancy
These panels are smooth and modern-looking pieces and have a flat appearance while having negative details.
Sustainability
Cassettes are waterproof without the use of exposed sealants and mastics. This allows the water to flow without entering the wall structure and damaging it. In addition, they are created with more robust systems, which are built to have 50-100 years of lifespan. Thus, they require minimal maintenance.
Economical Friendly
This cladding system is economical due to its purity and creating minimum wastage of materials ability. It is good to mention that they are also a hundred percent recyclable materials.
How to Choose the Best Cassette System For Your Project
With various choices of metal cladding systems available in the market, it can be challenging to choose the most suitable product for your new or renovation project. One of the easiest ways to narrow down your choices is to look for a product warranty. Companies that offer products without warranties are more likely to have lower-quality cassette panels. A long-lasting and comprehensive warranty indicates the pride and craftsmanship of a company that puts into its production.
