Lamiera® Takes Center Stage in the Major Astronomical Project, the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT)
In the Atacama Desert, in the Chilean Andes, the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT) is under construction—the largest optical telescope ever built for observing visible and infrared light. Located at an altitude of over 3,000 meters on Cerro Armazones, the project represents one of the most significant engineering and scientific challenges on an international scale.
For the construction of the structure’s movable closure systems, Torggler supplied Lamiera®, the neutral silicone sealant with an ultra-low elastic modulus chosen to ensure sealing performance and durability even under the site’s harsh climatic conditions.
The 298 movable panels installed by Cimolai—featuring a steel frame and aluminum cladding—are subject to extreme temperature fluctuations and constant stress due to the differing thermal expansion of the materials. For this reason, a sealant was needed that could effectively adhere to the substrates and maintain its elasticity over time.
Prior to application, Lamiera® underwent specific compatibility and resistance tests at the Torggler R&D laboratory in Marlengo. The tests confirmed the product’s high reliability, allowing for its use in the project’s exterior sealing work.
The project involved sealing over 11 km of joints and protecting more than 25,000 rivet points, thereby contributing to the durability and integrity of the structure’s components.
Torggler’s participation in the ELT project confirms the ability of its solutions to meet the highest standards of international engineering, even in extreme environments where reliability and performance cannot be compromised.
