Looking for aluminum windows that combine modern design with real energy efficiency? Discover why MB-60 HI is a system that might change your perception of aluminum joinery.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Aluminum systems are gaining increasing popularity in modern construction, combining durability, aesthetics, and functionality. One system that deserves special attention is MB-60 HI – an improved version of the basic MB-60 window and door system from renowned manufacturer Aluprof, a European leader in the fenestration market.

MB-60 HI (High Insulation) is a system with thermal break, designed with enhanced thermal insulation in mind, achieved through special insulation inserts in the profiles. This solution is dedicated to buildings where energy efficiency plays a key role, but aesthetics and functionality remain equally important.

In this review, we will take a detailed look at the MB-60 HI system – its technical parameters, advantages and disadvantages, as well as compare it with competitive solutions available on the market. We will check if it actually manages to combine slim design with energy efficiency and whether it meets the requirements of contemporary architects, investors, and users.

Technical Specifications and Design

The MB-60 HI system features a well-thought-out design that balances aesthetics and functionality. The frame depth is 60 mm for both windows and doors, allowing for a consistent appearance of the entire facade. The sash depth is 69 mm for windows and 60 mm for doors.

The key construction elements are three-chamber profiles with “omega” thermal breaks of 24 mm width (windows) and 14 mm (doors), made of glass-fiber reinforced polyamide. However, it is the special insulation inserts placed in the central chambers of the profiles that give the HI version an advantage over the standard MB-60, significantly improving thermal insulation.

The system allows for the use of glazing packages with thicknesses from 5 mm to 50 mm, providing great flexibility in selecting appropriate glazing depending on the needs of a specific project.

Regarding maximum dimensions, windows in the MB-60 HI system can reach heights up to 2400 mm and widths up to 1600 mm, with sash weights up to 180 kg. For doors, the maximum height is 3000 mm, width 1400 mm, and weight can reach up to 200 kg.

The most important parameter for systems with enhanced thermal insulation is the heat transfer coefficient. For MB-60 HI, the Uf coefficient for profiles ranges from 1.48 W/(m²K), which represents a significant improvement compared to the standard MB-60 version (2.0-2.3 W/(m²K)). For the entire window, the Uw coefficient can reach a value from 0.9 W/(m²K) when using glass with Ug=0.5 W/(m²K), which meets the requirements of the Technical Conditions 2021 (Uw ≤ 0.9 W/(m²K)).

The design of MB-60 HI is characterized by slim profiles and the possibility of achieving a single-plane effect from the outside in the case of windows or flush-mounting in the case of doors. The system is available in the full RAL color palette (over 200 shades), with the possibility of anodizing and applying wood-like coatings, providing virtually unlimited personalization options.

Advantages of MB-60 HI in Practice

Energy Efficiency

The primary advantage of the MB-60 HI system is its enhanced thermal insulation. The Uf coefficient from 1.48 W/(m²K) and the possibility of achieving Uw from 0.9 W/(m²K) for the entire window makes this system ideal for energy-efficient buildings. In practice, this translates into measurable savings in heating costs, which users often emphasize in their reviews.

The insulation inserts used in the system effectively reduce convection and thermal radiation in the profile, which is particularly important in the Polish climate with distinct temperature differences between seasons.

Aesthetics and Architectural Possibilities

Slim profiles with a depth of 60 mm allow for elegant, modern facades with maximum access to natural light. The single-plane effect from the outside in the case of windows or flush-mounting in the case of doors further emphasizes the minimalist character of the construction.

The variety of available construction types – from fixed, casement, tilt, tilt-and-turn, to pivot windows – gives architects great design freedom. The system also allows for bending profiles, enabling the creation of arches and arched structures, giving buildings a characteristic, unique appearance.

Durability and Resistance

Aluminum with thermal breaks and EPDM gaskets provides exceptional resistance to atmospheric factors, including moisture, corrosion, and UV radiation. Unlike PVC or wooden systems, MB-60 HI practically requires no maintenance and retains its properties for many years of use.

The system is also characterized by good sealing parameters – water tightness in class E900 (900 Pa), air permeability in class 4 (highest), and wind resistance in class C5 (2000 Pa) guarantee reliability even in difficult weather conditions.

Functionality and User Comfort

MB-60 HI offers good acoustic insulation, achieving Rw up to 42 dB when using appropriate glazing packages (e.g., 4/16/4 with argon). This is particularly important in locations exposed to noise, such as city centers or areas near high-traffic roads.

The system’s compatibility with standard Euro grooves allows for the use of a wide range of hardware (Roto, Maco, Winkhaus), including concealed hinges, multi-point locks, or anti-burglary handles, which increases comfort and safety of use.

Disadvantages and Limitations

Cost

Like most premium solutions, MB-60 HI comes with higher costs. The system is more expensive than the standard MB-60 (by about 10-20%) and significantly more expensive than PVC systems with similar insulation parameters (e.g., Drutex Iglo Energy with Uw=0.79 W/(m²K)). A reference window (1230×1480 mm) with glass Ug=0.5 W/(m²K) costs around 1800-2200 PLN, which is about 300 PLN more than the standard MB-60.

Insulation Limitations

Although MB-60 HI offers a significant improvement in thermal insulation compared to the standard version, it still falls short of Aluprof’s premium systems, such as MB-70 (Uf=1.0 W/(m²K)) or MB-86 SI (Uf=0.92 W/(m²K)). This means that MB-60 HI, despite its good parameters, is not the optimal choice for passive houses or buildings with the highest energy requirements.

Weight and Installation

Aluminum constructions are heavier than PVC, which requires solid installation and properly prepared building structure. For larger glazing, this can increase costs and complicate the installation process.

Comparison with Competition

To better understand the position of MB-60 HI in the market, it’s worth comparing it with competitive systems:

MB-70 HI (Aluprof)

  • Better thermal insulation (Uf=1.0 W/(m²K))
  • Greater profile depth (70 mm)
  • Higher price (about 20% more expensive than MB-60 HI)
  • Better choice for buildings with higher energy requirements

Yawal TM 62 HI

  • Similar insulation (Uf=1.4 W/(m²K))
  • Slightly lower price
  • Less flexibility in special applications
  • Lower market availability

Reynaers CS 68

  • Similar insulation parameters (Uf=1.5 W/(m²K))
  • Comparable price
  • Wider selection of hardware
  • Less recognized brand in Poland

Schüco AWS 70.HI

  • Similar insulation (Uf=1.3 W/(m²K))
  • Lower price in some configurations
  • Premium brand, valued by architects
  • Lower availability at local distributors

In industry rankings, such as Debesto 2023, MB-60 HI ranks in the TOP 10 aluminum systems, gaining recognition for its favorable ratio of price to technical parameters.

Applications and User Reviews

Architectural Applications

MB-60 HI is used in various projects, from single-family homes, through mid-range office buildings, to shop fronts. Architects especially appreciate it in projects where design and thermal parameters are important.

The system works perfectly in Scandinavian-style houses, where large glazing is a key element of architecture. The possibility of bending profiles also allows for creating facades with arches, which is often used in modern designs.

User Reviews

Users of the MB-60 HI system most often emphasize:

  • “Solid windows, in winter the difference in bills is noticeable” – confirming the actual benefits of enhanced thermal insulation
  • “Nice design, but installation is a bit complicated” – indicating aesthetic values, while also pointing out installation challenges
  • “Warm and quiet, but the price could be lower” – appreciating insulation and acoustic parameters, but noting the higher price

Distributors of aluminum systems often report that MB-60 HI is a medium-high shelf product with a good margin, particularly popular in larger cities such as Krakow or Poznan. Customers appreciate the balance between insulation and aesthetics, which makes this system often chosen for living room windows or terrace doors.

Production and Installation

For joinery manufacturers, MB-60 HI is a relatively easy system to process, ideal for companies looking for orders in the energy-efficient segment. Its close compatibility with other Aluprof systems (MB-45, MB-59S, MB-70) allows for efficient use of the same accessories and technologies, which simplifies the production process.

Summary and Final Assessment

MB-60 HI is a system that effectively combines enhanced thermal insulation with elegant design and functionality. Its main advantages are:

  • Good thermal insulation (Uf from 1.48 W/(m²K), Uw from 0.9 W/(m²K))
  • Aesthetic, slim design with 60 mm deep profiles
  • Durability and resistance to atmospheric factors
  • Flexibility of applications and architectural possibilities
  • Solid sealing parameters and acoustic insulation

The main limitations are:

  • Higher price compared to PVC systems and standard MB-60
  • Poorer insulation compared to premium systems (MB-70, MB-86)
  • Greater weight and installation requirements

Taking into account all advantages and disadvantages, MB-60 HI deserves a solid rating of 8/10. It is an optimal choice for projects where the balance between energy efficiency, aesthetics, and cost is important.

The system is particularly recommended for:

  • Architects designing modern single-family homes and office buildings
  • Investors valuing durability and low operating costs
  • Users looking for elegant, energy-efficient solutions

MB-60 HI is proof that aluminum joinery can effectively combine design with energy efficiency, responding to contemporary construction challenges.

Sapor Company, with over 25 years of experience in the industry, specializes in high-quality aluminum systems, including MB-60 HI. Emphasis on details, individual approach to projects, and professional technical support make cooperation with Sapor a valuable experience for architects, distributors, and investors looking for tailor-made premium solutions.

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