Glass Curtain Wall has been used in construction projects 150 years ago (the mid-19th century). Due to the limitations of materials and processing techniques at that time, the curtain wall could not achieve absolute water tightness, air tightness, and resistance to various natural external forces. Invasion (such as wind, earthquake, temperature), thermo-physical factors (heat radiation, condensation), sound insulation, fire prevention and other requirements have not been well developed and promoted.
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Today, curtain walls are not only widely used in the exterior walls of various buildings, but also in the interior walls of buildings with various functions, such as communication rooms, TV studios, airports (airports), large stations, stadiums, museums, cultural centers, and large buildings. Hotels, shopping malls, etc.Here we introduce the modern curtain wall classification,components and features.
FRAMELESS CURTAIN WALL
The frameless curtain wall ,or all glass curtain wall is a kind of glass curtain wall with full transparency and full view. It uses the transparency of glass to pursue the circulation and integration of the space inside and outside the building, so that people can see through the glass. Clearly seeing the entire structural system of the glass makes the structural system change from a pure supporting role to its visibility, thus showing the artistic, layered and three-dimensional sense of architectural decoration. It has the characteristics of light weight, simple material selection, factory-oriented processing, quick construction, convenient maintenance and repair, and easy cleaning. Its effect on enriching the architectural modeling and facade effect is unmatched by other materials, and it is the embodiment of modern technology in architectural decoration.
The surface glass can be single glass, insulated glass, and laminated glass and so on; normally the glass is tempered glass. Glass fin may adopt single tempered glass or laminated glass. This type of curtain wall contains Bottom stand Frameless Glass Curtain Wall and Top Hang Frameless Glass Curtain Wall.
Bottom Stand glass curtain wall:The surface glass is fixed in the top and bottom glass slot. The glass dead load is sustained by the bottom slot. The surface glass can be four sides or two opposite sides supporting. When supported by the vertical two sides and the glass cannot meet the intensity or rigidity requirements, the vertical glass fin is needed. when the height of surface glass exceeds scope of the relevant standards and specification, we have to change the bottom sitting style to top hang style.
Top Hang Glass curtain wallThe surface glass top hangs to the bottom of the main structure beam above it&#;and the glass load pass to the main structure through hanging device. The horizontal wind load and other external loading are born by the vertical glass fin installed in the same manner. Usually, the surface glass is single glass and the fin glass can be single glass or laminated glass.
The most features all glass curtain wall application is oversized laminated glass used in apple store ,the facade covers 11 pieces laminated glass panels ,each panels size is 15M*3M and weight almost 10Mt,for this size ,it&#;s impossible to stand the glass itself for glass weight reason,all these panels are hanged and create unique appearance.
POINTED SUPPORTED CURTAIN WALLEach grid glass is fixed by point-connected steel parts, and the various loads and actions (wind load, earthquake action, temperature action, etc.) it bears are connected by point-connected steel parts and glass spiders is transmitted to the force supporting structure system, and then from the intermediate force supporting structure system to the main structure; the point-connected steel parts use spherical hinge bolts (freely rotatable), and the spherical hinge bolts The center of rotation is consistent with the center of gravity of the glass, which can eliminate the glass displacement caused by external forces (wind load, seismic action, temperature action, etc.). There are several forms such as &#;H&#; shape and &#;X&#; shape. The force supporting structure system supporting glass can be glass ribs, steel structures , or stainless steel pull bar, cables or hybrid structures. Therefore, the point-connected full curtain wall can be divided into glass rib point supported full-glass curtain wall, steel rod point-supported glass curtain wall, steel cable point fixed glass curtain wall, and mixed structure glass curtain wall.
Same as frameless glass facade,glass used in point supported glass are usually 15,19mm toughened glass,or typically 21.52mm tempered laminated glass,the glass ribs,are 21.52mm,25.52mm and sometimes even thicker laminated glass to ensure facade safety.
STICK CURTAIN WALL SYSTEM
Stick curtain wall system,or framed curtain wall system, the mullion (or beam) of the component curtain wall is first installed on the main structure, and then the beam (or mullion) is installed. The mullion and the beam form a lattice, and the panel material (glass,aluminium panels) are fixed on the frame system with sealant or glue to prevent rainwater penetration and air penetration..The load of the panel material unit components must be transmitted to the main structure through the mullions (or beams).
&#;&#;The main features of framed curtain wall
(1) Flexible construction methods and relatively mature technology. After more engineering practice tests, more curtain wall structures are currently used.
(2) The main structure has strong adaptability, and the installation sequence is basically not affected by the main structure.
(3) Good water tightness and air tightness, good heat preservation , sound insulation and noise reduction ability, and a certain degree of resistance to interlayer displacement .
(4) The facade panels are made in the factory, and the performance of the structural adhesive is guaranteed.
(5) A large number of installation procedures are carried out on-site, requiring a large workload of on-site management.
(6) The sealant construction requirements are strict. The process of pre-cleaning and glueing requires high quality of workers; there are many control points for installation and glueing and many procedures.
Stick glass curtain wall means that glass works as the external panel,according to the facade appearance,the stick curtain wall can be classified into framed curtain wall,semi framed curtain wall and hidden frame curtain wall.
Typical glass panels used in stick curtain wall system are insulated glass with high performance low-E coatings to keep building thermal properties and reduce heating&cooling costs.
Beside glass panels ,especially insulated glass panels,many other facade materials can be used in the stick curtain wall system,for example solid aluminium panels, ACP aluminium panels,Aluminium honeycomb aluminium panels,steel panels,stones,UHPC facade,GRC facade,terracotta panel curtain wall,and even PC panels can be used in stick curtain wall system.
UNITIZED CURTAIN WALL SYSTEMThe unitized curtain wall is composed of many independent units. The installation of all the panels and the sealing of the indirect seams of the panels are processed and assembled in the factory.After classification &number ,unitized curtain wall panels is transported to the construction site for hoisting&installation according to the engineering installation sequence, and the installation can be combined with the main structure (5-6 floors difference is enough).
Its main features are:
(3) Adhesive strips&gaskets are used to seal the joints, and weather-resistant glue is not used and is not affected by weather.
(4) Strict construction organization and management are required, and there is a strict construction sequence during construction, and installation must be carried out in the order of insertion. There are strict restrictions on the placement of construction machinery such as vertical transportation equipment for the main construction, otherwise it will affect the installation of the entire project.
Below video shows the installation of unitized curtain wall installation on site:
DOUBLE SKIN CURTAIN WALL SYSTEM
Double-skin curtain walls are also called dynamic ventilating, heat channel or breathing facade.Based on the optimized design and scientific configuration of system, the double-skin facade can improve the thermal performances of external envelope, interior ventilation, acoustic insulation, and interior lighting control.
The thermal conductivity and shading characteristics of the double-Skin curtain wall can significantly reduce energy consumption in the building. By passively using light energy, the heat loss through the double-layer curtain wall in winter can be reduced by 30%, and the heat dissipation at night in summer can reduce the use of air conditioners, thereby reducing energy loss. If the night heat dissipation and louvers are used correctly, the indoor temperature can also be kept lower than the outdoor.
The double sin curtain wall system can be classified into:
Natural Ventilating (External Circulation) Double-skin Curtain Wall System
Mechanical Ventilating (Internal Circulation) Double-Skin Curtain Wall System
Mixed Ventilation (Internal / External Circulation) Double-skin Curtain Wall System
Sealed Maintenance-Free Double Glazing Curtain Wall System
The most typical double skin glass facade used in China is Shanghai tower,After optimization, under the typical working conditions of the transition season, more than 90% of the main functional rooms in the building have an average natural ventilation frequency of no less than 2 times per hour. Natural ventilation can be achieved during the spring and autumn transition seasons, even without air conditioning.With the double-layer curtain wall, the energy consumption for heating and cooling is about half lower than that of the single-layer curtain wall.Shanghai Tower got LEED certificate.
Morn is your turnkey architectural glass manufacturer and supplier,welcome contact us for more info if you got any curtain wall projects,whether it&#;s stick curtain wall,all glass curtain wall and unitized curtain wall system.
Extend:
Using the right glass for your glass curtain wall
THE BENEFIT OF DOUBLE GLAZED UNITS FOR CURTAIN WALL
Download this article here: Curtain wall classification,component, features
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Are you ready to dive into the world of curtain wall systems?
Get ready for an ultimate guide that will take you on a journey through the history, types of curtain walling, benefits, and different materials of these innovative structures.
We&#;ll walk you through the design considerations, and installation process, and even share tips on maintenance and cleaning.
Plus, we&#;ll give you a sneak peek into future trends in curtain wall technology.
So buckle up and prepare to become a curtain wall expert!
If you want to learn more, please visit our website Zhuzao.
Key Takeaways
The History of Curtain Walls
The history of curtain walls dates back to ancient civilizations, where they were used for both practical and aesthetic purposes. In fact, the concept of curtain walling can be traced all the way back to the Egyptians and Romans. They used this architectural technique to enclose their buildings with a non-structural outer layer made of materials like stone or glass. This innovation allowed them to create large, open spaces within their structures while still providing protection from the elements.
Curtain walls continued to evolve throughout history, with advancements in technology and design. During the Industrial Revolution, iron and steel became popular choices for constructing curtain walls due to their strength and durability. The use of glass also became more prevalent, allowing for greater natural light penetration into buildings.
In modern times, curtain walls have become an integral part of contemporary architecture. With advancements in materials like aluminum framing systems and energy-efficient glazing options, architects now have more flexibility in creating visually stunning facades that are also sustainable and functional.
Today&#;s curtain walls not only provide structural support but also offer insulation against heat loss or gain and noise reduction. They can even incorporate features such as solar panels or shading devices for enhanced energy efficiency.
Overall, the history of curtain walls showcases how this architectural element has evolved over time to meet various needs &#; from protection against external forces to creating aesthetically pleasing designs that enhance our built environment.
What is a Glass Curtain Wall System?
A &#;curtain wall&#; is an external building feature that shields occupants and the structure from external environmental impacts. It not only provides protection from elements like wind and rain but also offers various design and functional possibilities. Curtain walls can be entirely glass or incorporate materials like stone and aluminum panels.
They may feature architectural elements for aesthetic enhancement or environmental management, such as brise soleil for shading or photovoltaic panels for electricity generation. Unlike structural components, modern curtain walls are designed as cladding elements, ensuring their failure won&#;t cause disproportionate damage to the building.
Types of Curtain Walling
Three primary types of curtain walling systems are
Stick Systems
These systems vary in design aesthetics, construction methods, and overall design. While each system meets building design load requirements, they respond differently when subjected to blast loads, potentially offering varying levels of occupant protection. Hence, understanding these diverse systems is crucial for their effective use.
Stick systems for curtain walls consist of individual vertical mullions and horizontal transoms, also known as &#;sticks.&#; These elements are connected to the building&#;s floor slabs, with large glass panels for external views and opaque spandrel panels to conceal the structural framework. Mullions and transoms are typically made from extruded aluminum sections and come in various sizes, colors, and finishes. They are joined using angles, cleats, toggles, or locating pins, with different options available for varying load capacities to achieve the desired design.
The dimensions of these sections are determined by factors such as the horizontal span between mullions, the height between floor slabs, environmental forces like wind, and the weight of the glass. The glass is usually supplied by a separate glass manufacturer and is designed to be compatible with the system.
In stick systems, the components are often pre-fabricated in a factory, cut to the required lengths, and prepared for assembly. A team of specialist contractors then installs these elements on-site. Once the mullion and transom grid are in place, glass panes and spandrel panels are positioned and secured using pressure plates, which are concealed by cover caps. Another method, toggle glazing, clamps the glass internally via a channel.
Stick systems are favored for their versatility and cost-effectiveness, making them a common choice for applications like shopping centers and low-rise office buildings.
Unitized Systems
A unitized system takes the component parts of the stick system and assembles them into individual prefabricated units within a factory setting. These units are then transported to the construction site and fixed to the building&#;s structure.
Factory preparation of unitized systems allows for more intricate designs and the use of materials that demand strict quality control to achieve a high-quality finish. This approach also enhances precision and reduces the number of on-site joints, resulting in better air and water tightness compared to stick systems.
One of the primary advantages of unitized systems is their rapid installation. When compared to stick systems, these factory-assembled systems can be installed in just one-third of the time. Unitized systems are particularly well-suited for buildings that require a large amount of cladding and where access or site labor costs are high, such as high-rise buildings in cities like London and New York.
Within the unitized curtain wall systems family, some sub-categories benefit from speedy installation and a shift of labor costs from the construction site to the factory floor. These sub-categories include:
Bolt-fixed Glazing
Bolt-fixed or &#;Planar&#; glazing is typically used to cover specific areas in a building that architects or clients want to highlight, such as entrance lobbies, main atriums, scenic lift enclosures, or shop fronts. Instead of using frames on all four sides, like aluminum mullions and transoms, this approach supports glass panels with bolts, typically at the corners or along the edges of the glass. These bolt fixings are highly engineered components capable of spanning significant glass panes between support points.
The glass panels are delivered to the construction site with pre-drilled holes and stainless steel bolt fittings. The system is then assembled on-site. Different types of glazing used in traditional curtain walls, such as toughened, insulated, or laminated glass, can also be applied in bolt-fixed glazing if the manufacturer has the necessary skills and technology. Annealed glass is not suitable for bolt-fixed glazing because it lacks the required strength, and the glass thickness is typically greater due to the minimal support points.
The fixings that attach through the holes in bolt-fixed glazing are designed to allow for relative movement between the glass and the building structure. This movement can be caused by settlement, live loads, or thermal expansion and contraction. Bolt-fixed glazing needs a structural frame for support, which can be in the form of steel trusses, glass fins, or stainless steel tension systems. Given the critical role of the glass in these systems, risk assessments are crucial to ensure that the failure of one glass panel doesn&#;t lead to the progressive collapse of the entire structure.
Once installed, bolt-fixed systems are typically weatherproofed by applying a silicone weather seal between adjacent glass panels. These systems are available in various forms, ranging from complete solutions where the glass and fittings come from a single source to products designed by a structural engineer and sourced as individual components. When sourcing bolt-fixed glazing components separately, it&#;s essential that the system is evaluated and coordinated by a qualified contractor or engineer to ensure its integrity and functionality.
Doors Within Glass Facade
In each of the three curtain walling systems, the inclusion of doors within the façade is necessary. These doors are typically constructed from a single pane of glass and can come in various configurations, such as single-leaf, double-leaf, or turnstile. The doors are affixed to a supporting frame, which, in turn, is directly fixed to the building structure, with the façade integrated around them.
The door leafs themselves can either be framed, meaning they are supported on all four sides by a metal frame around the door leaf, or unframed, where the glass edges are exposed.
In the event of a blast, it is anticipated that doors within a glass façade will be the most vulnerable element and may fail first. While measures to strengthen these doors can be implemented, a more practical approach may involve reducing how far the doors extend into the internal space.
Additional guidance on mitigation measures for doors within facades can be found on the CPNI website.
Benefits of Curtain Wall Systems
You&#;ll love the benefits of using curtain wall systems. They offer a range of advantages that can enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of your building. Here are some reasons why curtain walls are worth considering:
With these benefits in mind, it&#;s time to explore the different types of curtain wall materials. Each material has its own set of characteristics and advantages that will influence the overall performance and appearance of your building&#;s exterior. So let&#;s dive into the next section to learn more about them!
Different Types of Curtain Wall Materials
Take a moment to explore the various types of materials available for your curtain wall, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages.
Aluminum is one popular choice due to its lightweight nature and strength. It is also highly resistant to corrosion, making it a durable option for exterior applications.
Another material to consider is glass, which provides transparency and allows natural light to enter the building while creating a modern and sleek aesthetic. Glass can be customized with different coatings or tints to enhance energy efficiency or privacy.
If you are looking for a more sustainable option, consider using steel as your curtain wall material. Steel offers excellent structural integrity and can withstand extreme weather conditions. It is also recyclable, reducing its environmental impact.
Lastly, stone or concrete panels provide a timeless and elegant look for your curtain wall system. These materials offer durability and require minimal maintenance over time.
Ultimately, the choice of material will depend on factors such as aesthetics, performance requirements, and budget considerations when designing your curtain wall system.
Design Considerations for Curtain Walls
When considering the design of your curtain walls, it&#;s important to take into account factors such as building orientation, energy efficiency requirements, and aesthetic preferences. By paying attention to these aspects, you can create a curtain wall system that not only enhances the overall appearance of your building but also provides optimal functionality.
To help you visualize the key considerations for designing your curtain walls, here are some important factors to keep in mind:
Installation Process of Curtain Wall Systems
To ensure a successful installation of your curtain wall, it&#;s important to carefully plan and execute the assembly process. First, gather all the necessary tools and materials, including the curtain wall panels, anchors, brackets, sealants, and fasteners.
Next, properly prepare the building structure by cleaning and leveling it. Remove any existing moisture or debris to create a smooth surface for installation.
Once the building structure is prepared, begin by installing the anchor brackets according to the manufacturer&#;s instructions. These brackets will serve as the support system for your curtain wall panels. Take care to align each bracket precisely for proper alignment of all components.
Next, attach the curtain wall panels onto the anchor brackets using fasteners or clips provided by the manufacturer. Make sure to securely fasten each panel in place while maintaining an even spacing between them.
After installing all the curtain wall panels, thoroughly inspect for any gaps or misalignments. Use a sealant to fill in any gaps and create a watertight barrier between each panel.
In conclusion, proper planning and careful execution are crucial for the successful installation of curtain walls. By following these steps diligently, you can ensure that your curtain wall system is installed correctly and functions effectively.
This leads us into our next section about the maintenance and cleaning of curtain walls&#;
Maintenance and Cleaning of Curtain Walls
Make sure you regularly clean and inspect your curtain wall panels to maintain their appearance and functionality. Here are some important tips to keep in mind:
Regular maintenance and cleaning of your curtain wall panels will not only keep them looking great but also extend their lifespan.
In the next section, we will explore future trends in curtain wall technology.
Future Trends in Curtain Wall Technology
There&#;s a lot of excitement about the future of curtain wall technology and the innovative advancements that are being made. As you look ahead, you can expect to see several trends shaping the future of curtain walls.
One major trend is the integration of sustainable features into curtain wall systems. With growing environmental concerns, architects and designers are striving to create more eco-friendly buildings. Curtain walls that incorporate energy-efficient materials, such as solar panels or photovoltaic glass, will become increasingly common. These advancements not only reduce energy consumption but also contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.
Another exciting development is the use of smart technology in curtain walls. Imagine having control over the transparency and shading levels of your building&#;s facade with just a touch on your smartphone. Smart glass technologies are being developed to allow for adjustable opacity, providing privacy when needed while allowing natural light to flood in when desired.
Additionally, there is ongoing research into improving the performance and durability of curtain wall systems. New materials and manufacturing techniques will enhance their resistance to extreme weather conditions such as hurricanes or earthquakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Curtain Wall System for a Specific Building Project?
When selecting a curtain wall system for your building project, consider factors like the building&#;s location, climate conditions, desired aesthetics, energy efficiency requirements, and budget constraints. These will help you make an informed decision.
Can Curtain Wall Systems Be Installed on Existing Buildings, or Are They Only Suitable for New Construction?
Yes, curtain wall systems can be installed on existing buildings. They are not only suitable for new construction but also offer a great option to enhance the aesthetics and energy efficiency of older structures.
Are Curtain Walls Only Used for Commercial Buildings, or Can They Also Be Used in Residential Projects?
Curtain walls are not limited to commercial buildings; they can also be used in residential projects. They provide an aesthetic and functional solution for large glass facades, allowing natural light and offering energy efficiency.
How Do Curtain Wall Systems Contribute to Energy Efficiency and Sustainability in Buildings?
Curtain wall systems can significantly improve energy efficiency in buildings. For example, they can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 30%. This makes them a sustainable choice for both commercial and residential projects.
Are There Any Specific Building Code Requirements or Regulations That Need to Be Considered When Installing Curtain Wall Systems?
When installing curtain wall systems, you need to consider specific building code requirements and regulations. These ensure that the installation meets safety standards and addresses factors like fire resistance, wind load capacity, and structural integrity.
Conclusion
So now you have all the information you need to make a decision about curtain wall systems. You&#;ve learned about their history, the benefits they provide, and the different types of materials available.
You&#;ve also gained insight into design considerations, installation processes, and maintenance requirements.
With this knowledge in hand, you can confidently choose the right curtain wall system for your project.
So go ahead and embrace the future trends in curtain wall technology, and create a stunning architectural masterpiece that will stand tall for years to come!
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Commercial Curtain Wall. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.