Contemporary architecture demands solutions that combine aesthetics, strength, and technical efficiency.

Today, curved façades, large-format enclosures, curtain walls, and special metal structures are a common feature of high-end architectural projects. Making them possible requires much more than manufacturing profiles: it requires a deep understanding of material behaviour, millimetre-level precision, and the ability to develop solutions tailored to each design.

At Mabelux, we have spent more than 35 years specialising in the bending of aluminium and steel profiles for manufacturers, metal fabricators, architectural firms, and engineering companies. Our experience has enabled us to participate in international projects where technical expertise and innovation are essential.

The Evolution of Windows and Metal Structures in Architecture

For decades, metal windows and enclosures primarily served a practical purpose. However, the evolution of architecture has completely transformed their role within buildings.

Today, aluminium and steel windows and structures:

• define the aesthetics of a façade,
• improve energy efficiency,
• maximise natural light,
• enable organic designs,
• and contribute to indoor comfort.

This evolution has driven the development of increasingly advanced systems by leading manufacturers and extrusion companies such as TECHNAL, Cortizo, Strugal, Jansen, and Forster Systems.

Thanks to these systems, it is now possible to manufacture:

• Curved windows
• Large glazed façades
• Minimalist enclosures
• Complex metal structures
• Fully customised architectural solutions

Aluminium and Steel: Key Materials for Large Structures

The choice between aluminium and steel depends on the specific requirements of each project. Both materials offer distinct advantages and make it possible to develop high-performance solutions.

Aluminium: Lightweight, Durable, and Versatile

Aluminium has become one of the most widely used materials in modern architecture thanks to:

• its low weight,
• its corrosion resistance,
• its ease of fabrication,
• and its ability to accommodate multiple finishes.

Aluminium window manufacturers increasingly work with profiles that offer high thermal and acoustic performance, particularly in sustainable and energy-efficient buildings.

In addition, aluminium allows for:

• large glazed surfaces,
• curved profiles,
• organic shapes,
• and minimalist solutions with an excellent strength-to-weight ratio.

Steel: Robustness and Maximum Structural Capacity

Steel stands out for its mechanical strength and structural stability. It is the ideal choice for projects requiring:

• slender profiles,
• large spans,
• enhanced security,
• or high technical performance.

Steel systems such as those developed by Jansen and Forster Systems are commonly used in:

• public buildings,
• infrastructure projects,
• technical façades,
• and landmark architectural developments.

Furthermore, steel makes it possible to integrate fire-rated (RF) solutions and advanced security systems while maintaining an elegant and contemporary design.

The Importance of Working with Recognised Systems and Brands

One of the key factors in any project is compatibility between the bending process and the original glazing or framing systems.

For this reason, Mabelux regularly works with profiles from the leading brands in the industry. Each system presents its own specific characteristics:

• different geometries,
• minimum bending radii,
• variable thicknesses
• and unique technical requirements.

Our experience working with these systems allows us to adapt the bending process without compromising the performance or final appearance of the system.

Proprietary Technology for Highly Complex Projects

The manufacture of curved windows and large metal structures requires much more than conventional machinery.

At Mabelux, we have developed our own proprietary technology over decades of experience to work with:

• structural profiles,
• metal tubes,
• powder-coated or anodised profiles,
• and systems with highly complex geometries.

This enables us to collaborate on architectural and industrial projects where precision is essential.

Efficient Architecture and Sustainable Materials

Aluminium and steel stand out not only for their technical performance but also for their contribution to sustainable construction.

Both materials are recyclable and enable the development of energy-efficient solutions.

In addition:

• modern systems improve thermal insulation,
• reduce energy losses,
• and contribute to more sustainable buildings.

The use of high-performance metal façades and enclosure systems directly supports compliance with current energy efficiency and sustainability standards in architecture.

Mabelux: Specialists in Solutions That Transform Architecture

At Mabelux, we continue to transform metal profiles into precise, innovative architectural solutions tailored to the challenges of contemporary architecture.

Because behind every great structure lies a technical process that brings ideas to life.

In architecture and construction, the choice of materials directly influences the performance and durability of a project. In the world of metal joinery, two materials stand out above the rest: steel and aluminium.

Both offer significant technical and aesthetic advantages, but each is better suited to specific requirements. Choosing correctly between steel or aluminium joinery can make a substantial difference in aspects such as structural strength, insulation, maintenance, and even architectural design.

At Mabelux, we have been working with the bending of aluminium and steel profiles for architectural, construction, and industrial projects for more than 35 years. This experience has given us an in-depth understanding of the behaviour of both materials and allowed us to collaborate with systems from leading brands such as Jansen, Forster Systems, Technal, Cortizo, and Strugal.

So, when should you choose steel, and when is aluminium the better option? Let’s take a closer look.

Steel and Aluminium: Two Materials with Very Different Characteristics

Although both materials are widely used in metal joinery, their properties differ significantly, making each one more suitable depending on the type of project.

Steel: Maximum Strength and Structural Robustness

Steel is one of the strongest materials used in construction and architecture. Its high structural capacity makes it possible to manufacture slimmer profiles capable of supporting heavy loads.

This makes it an ideal solution for:

• Large-scale projects.
• Façades and curtain walls.
• High-security enclosures.
• Structures subjected to significant stresses.
• Fire-rated (RF) and bullet-resistant systems.

In addition, steel offers an aesthetic highly valued in contemporary and industrial architecture, especially in projects where minimalist profiles and elegant lines are desired.

At Mabelux, we regularly work with steel systems from brands such as Jansen and Forster Systems, which are widely used in high-level technical and architectural projects.

Aluminium: Lightweight, Versatile, and Efficient

Aluminium stands out primarily for its light weight and versatility. It is easy to handle and highly resistant to corrosion.

Aluminium joinery is particularly suitable for:

• Windows and doors.
• Lightweight façades.
• Balustrades and handrails.
• Large-format enclosures.
• Projects where weight is a key factor.

Furthermore, aluminium allows for a wide range of finishes, powder coatings, and anodised treatments, significantly expanding aesthetic possibilities.

Systems from brands such as Technal, Cortizo, Aluminios Barcelona, Reynaers Aluminium, and Strugal offer aluminium profiles capable of combining design, energy efficiency, and advanced technical performance.

When to Choose Steel in Metal Joinery

Steel is often the best choice when a project requires high structural performance or demanding technical specifications.

Large Spans and Complex Structures

Thanks to its high mechanical strength, steel makes it possible to cover large dimensions using slimmer profiles.

This is essential for:

• Glazed façades.
• Curved curtain walls.
• Metal roofing systems.
• Unique architectural structures.

In projects involving curved shapes or complex radii, steel bending provides exceptional stability and precision.

Safety and Protection

Steel is indispensable in applications requiring:

• fire resistance,
• bullet protection,
• enhanced security,
• or high impact resistance.

Fire-rated and security steel profiles are commonly used in airports, public buildings, infrastructure projects, and industrial facilities.

When to Choose Aluminium in Joinery

Aluminium is an extremely versatile and efficient solution for projects where lightweight construction, energy efficiency, and ease of maintenance are priorities.

Efficient Windows and Enclosures

Modern aluminium joinery offers excellent thermal and acoustic performance, particularly when incorporating thermal break technology. As a result, it is one of the most widely used solutions in residential buildings, hotels, offices, and sustainable developments.

In addition, aluminium makes it possible to manufacture curved windows and customised systems with great precision.

Projects Where Weight Matters

Aluminium weighs considerably less than steel. This offers important advantages in:

• building renovations,
• lightweight façades,
• suspended structures,
• and projects where reducing structural loads is a priority.

Which Material Is Better for Curved Profiles?

Both steel and aluminium deliver excellent bending results, but each material performs better depending on the application.

Steel Bending: Precision and Stability

Steel is ideal for:

• complex structures
• large radii
• high-strength applications,
• and projects where structural stability is a priority.

Its rigidity allows very precise tolerances to be maintained, even in large-scale components.

Aluminium Bending: Flexibility and Lightweight Performance

Aluminium stands out for its ability to adapt to more fluid and organic designs.

It is widely used in:

• curved façades,
• balustrades,
• round windows,
• urban furniture,
• and customised architectural elements.

Thanks to modern aluminium profile bending technologies, it is possible to achieve complex radii while maintaining high-quality finishes, even on powder-coated or anodised profiles.

Steel and Aluminium: A Choice That Depends on the Project

There is no universally superior material. The choice between steel and aluminium always depends on factors such as:

• Structural requirements
• Architectural design
• Budget
• Climate and environmental conditions

In many projects, both materials are even combined to take advantage of the strengths of each.

That is why it is essential to work with a technical team capable of analysing each case and recommending the most appropriate solution.

Mabelux: Expertise in Steel and Aluminium Bending for Unique Projects

Modern metal joinery demands increasingly technical, efficient, and customised solutions. Both steel and aluminium offer enormous possibilities, but making the right choice is essential to guarantee the performance and durability of every project.

At Mabelux, we help turn that decision into real, precise solutions tailored to every requirement.