VEKA plc has strengthened its research and development capability with the introduction of a dedicated in-house weathering rig within its workshop facility. The equipment, supplied by ift MessTec, part of ift Rosenheim, enables controlled environmental evaluation of window systems as part of VEKA’s technical support service.
Supporting early-stage performance evaluation
The facility is used for indicative performance testing, allowing VEKA to work collaboratively with customers to assess system behaviour under simulated wind, rain and pressure conditions before progressing to formal testing with an accredited certification body.
For fabricators, this early-stage evaluation can provide practical commercial benefits. By generating recorded performance data under defined parameters, customers are better positioned to review system configurations, consider alignment with target market requirements and prepare for projects where specific performance standards are required.
Simulating demanding weather conditions
The rig is designed to replicate demanding weather scenarios in a consistent and measurable way. A fog system visually identifies potential air leakage paths, while air permeability testing measures airflow through a product under pressure in line with recognised classification standards.
Water tightness testing simulates wind-driven rain with increasing air pressure, measured in Pascals, to assess resistance to water ingress. Wind deflection and pressure pulse testing monitor how frames and glazing respond to sustained loads and repeated gust simulations, recording structural movement and behaviour.
Together, these assessments provide insight into how a complete system performs under controlled conditions. Internal evaluation does not replace formal third-party certification but is intended to support preparation for it.
Reducing risk before formal certification
By identifying potential areas for review earlier in the development cycle, customers may make adjustments prior to attending a UKAS-accredited test facility. This supports informed preparation for formal testing and may help reduce the likelihood of unexpected outcomes that could result in additional time or cost.
Collaborative development for specific market sectors
VEKA’s Technical Team works collaboratively with customers to review hardware selection, configuration details and system combinations to suit their intended application, while maintaining focus on production efficiency and practical manufacture.
Recently, VEKA worked with a long-standing fabricator to review the performance of selected hardware on a VEKA window system. The assembled system was evaluated under defined environmental conditions, with air permeability, water tightness and structural response recorded throughout. The documented results provided the customer with performance data ahead of formal external certification testing.
“The weathering facility enables us to collaborate closely with customers during product development,” commented Phil Gregory, design and development manager at VEKA. “By carrying out indicative testing under controlled conditions, we can generate recorded data that supports informed technical decisions before systems move forward to accredited certification testing.”
The workshop facility forms part of VEKA’s ongoing investment in technical infrastructure and customer partnership, providing controlled environmental evaluation and collaborative development expertise to support customers in preparing for formal validation routes.
