Aluminium composite panels are becoming increasingly important in modern architecture worldwide. In Australia they are popular because, among other things, they conform to Australian fire regulations.

Reasons for popularity

Nowadays, Australian architects use aluminium panels on a larger scale than ever. Not only is the exterior use increasing, but architects utilize them more and more for interior applications. There are many reasons for their popularity, but, for this article, let’s concentrate on reasons which can be summarised under three headings, namely safety, installation, and Long-term benefits.

Safety

One of the most critical aspects of modern architecture is fire safety. Architects must ensure that the materials they use minimise the risks for fires. In Australia, building materials must comply with national and regional legislation regarding this aspect. Because aluminium composite panel manufacturers provide them with various core materials, the fire risk differs from one type to another. However, with constant testing, the manufacturers can indicate for each type of panel, what the fire risks are by Australian codes and regulations.

What makes aluminium composite panel Sydney, for instance, so popular with architects, is that they only have to indicate the level of fire risk needed and the supplier will provide the right type. With other materials, it is usually a more complex process to determine whether the materials conform to the required standards.

In other words, these materials are the best to use to prevent fires and fire spreading in buildings, Architects can use material that has been tested and conforms to the applicable codes and regulations.

Installation

This cladding material is popular with architects because it moulds easily as a result of its texture and light weight. They can create innovative designs and know that installers will be able to install it due to the texture of the aluminium composite panels. Nowadays, architects use digital modelling when creating interesting cladding and other structures. With 3D software the whole installation can be visualized beforehand and aspects that may cause installation problems can be changed.

As this new digital option offers new creative possibilities and makes installation of interesting designs easier as it develops, the role of aluminium composite panels in modern architecture can be anticipated to become even more important in the future.

Long-term benefits

The long-term benefits of using this material in buildings, are another reason for the popularity of the material.

These long-term benefits include aspects as the following:

• They don’t need high maintenance – no regular repainting expenses.
• They are fire-resistant and fire damage rarely occurs.
• Corrosion-resistant and will last for years – no frequent replacement expenses.
• They are excellent insulators and will always assist to keep a building’s temperature as normal as possible. This is over time a large money-saver.
• They will for years look good and well-maintained.

Conclusion

Aluminium composite cladding will for several reasons keep on playing an important role in modern architecture around the world. The three aspects discussed in this article are only a small example of why they are so popular.