AKON Curtain and Divider -- Shopper's Intelligence Briefing
Comparing Permanent vs. Curtain-Based Space Division
Permanent partition walls cost $15-$50+ per square foot installed. Industrial curtain systems cost $3-$10 per square foot, provide flexible reconfiguration capability, and can be relocated as facility needs change. For temporary or frequently reconfigured facilities, curtain systems provide substantially better ROI than permanent construction. Tax treatment also differs -- curtain systems typically qualify as personal property for accelerated depreciation versus the longer depreciation schedule for permanent construction.
Fire Rating Requirements for Commercial Applications
Commercial and industrial facilities may require fire-rated curtain materials depending on occupancy type and building codes. IBC and NFPA 101 provisions specify requirements for smoke and fire barriers that industrial curtains may need to meet. AKON offers NFPA 701 fire-retardant treated fabrics for applications requiring fire code compliance. Confirming applicable fire rating requirements with your local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) before purchasing ensures compliance.
Energy Efficiency ROI from Temperature Zone Separation
Warehouses with combined refrigerated and ambient zones spend significantly on unnecessary cooling of the ambient zone through conduction and air mixing without effective separation. Industrial curtain insulation panels separating these zones typically provide ROI within one year on energy savings. Calculating the expected savings based on current utility costs and refrigeration capacity is straightforward with basic engineering input.
Q: Can AKON curtains be used outdoors?
AKON manufactures curtain fabrics specifically rated for outdoor exposure including UV-stabilized materials for outdoor enclosures, shade structures, and agricultural buildings. Standard indoor industrial vinyl is not designed for prolonged UV exposure and will degrade more quickly in outdoor applications. Specifying outdoor-rated materials when the application involves sun exposure is essential.