Module 1: Advanced Curtain Wall Systems Overview
1.1 Review of Basic Curtain Wall Types
Before diving into advanced systems, it’s essential to recap the fundamental curtain wall types:
Stick-Built Systems: Assembled piece-by-piece on-site, with vertical mullions and horizontal transoms. Ideal for low- to mid-rise buildings but labor-intensive.
Unitized Systems: Pre-fabricated modular panels installed as complete units, offering faster installation and better quality control for high-rises.
Semi-Unitized Systems: A hybrid approach where large pre-assembled sections are installed with some on-site adjustments, balancing speed and flexibility.
These traditional systems set the foundation for understanding more complex facade technologies.
1.2 Advanced Curtain Wall Systems
Double-Skin Facades
Definition: A multi-layer facade with an outer and inner skin, creating a ventilated cavity for improved thermal and acoustic performance.
Key Features:
Natural Ventilation: Reduces HVAC loads by allowing passive airflow in the cavity.
Solar Shading: Integrates blinds or louvers within the cavity to control heat gain.
Energy Efficiency: Acts as a thermal buffer, lowering heating/cooling demands.
Applications: High-performance office buildings in extreme climates.
Structural Glazing (Silicone Bonded)
Definition: Glass panels bonded directly to the structure using high-strength silicone, eliminating visible framing for a seamless appearance.
Key Features:
Aesthetic Minimalism: Maximizes transparency with uninterrupted glass surfaces.
Structural Integrity: Silicone joints accommodate movement while bearing wind loads.
Weather Resistance: Superior sealing against water and air infiltration.
Variants:
Four-Sided Structural Glazing (SSG) – Full silicone bonding.
Two-Sided Structural Glazing – Combined with mechanical retainers.
Point-Supported Glass Systems (Spider Glazing)
Definition: Glass panels mechanically fixed at discrete points (using stainless steel "spider" fittings) instead of continuous frames.
Key Features:
Ultra-Modern Aesthetics: Creates a floating glass effect.
High Transparency: Minimal metal obstruction maximizes daylight.
Structural Challenges: Requires precise engineering to handle stress concentrations at fixing points.
Components:
Spider Fittings: Arms that connect glass to the structure.
Countersunk or Patented Hardware: For flush or articulated connections.
1.3 Material Innovations
High-Performance Glass
Low-Emissivity (Low-E) Coatings: Reflects infrared heat while allowing visible light, improving energy efficiency.
Electrochromic Glass: Dynamically tints in response to sunlight, reducing glare and cooling loads.
Laminated Safety Glass: PVB interlayers enhance impact resistance and sound insulation.
Composite Panels
Aluminum Composite Panels (ACP): Lightweight, durable, and available in various finishes (e.g., metallic, stone-effect).
Fiber-Reinforced Polymers (FRP): Corrosion-resistant alternative for harsh environments.
Other Innovations
Photovoltaic-Integrated Glass: Embeds solar cells into spandrels or vision areas for renewable energy generation.
3D-Printed Facade Components: Customized, lightweight cladding with complex geometries.
Why This Matters
Advanced systems and materials push the boundaries of aesthetics, sustainability, and performance. Understanding these technologies allows installers and designers to tackle complex projects—from energy-efficient double-skin facades to sleek, frameless structural glazing—while meeting modern building codes and client demands.
.svg)
