What glass thickness and framing options are recommended for glass wall curtains systems?

Selecting appropriate glass thickness and metal framing for glass wall curtain systems requires a coordinated structural and architectural approach. Glass thickness is driven by span, edge support, wind and live loads, and safety requirements; common solutions include tempered monolithic glass (8–12 mm for low spans) and laminated IGUs with 6–12 mm plies totaling 12–28 mm for larger spans and higher loads. High-rise façades and large unitized panels often use laminated IGUs with multiple plies to combine structural strength, redundancy and post-breakage retention.

Framing options center on extruded aluminum mullions and transoms, with choices among thermally broken profiles, reinforced sections for deep spans, or hybrid steel mullions where higher stiffness is required. Thermally broken aluminum minimizes thermal bridging and allows the use of narrow sightlines without compromising performance. For unitized systems, factory-assembled modules often integrate frames with pre-glazed IGUs to control tolerances and speed installation.

Edge condition design matters: structural silicone glazing, captured glazing with pressure plates, or spider-glass anchorages for frameless aesthetics offer different load paths. Where spider fittings are specified, ensure stainless steel fittings match wind, seismic and façade weight requirements.

In regions like the GCC or Central Asia, frame selection should account for corrosion exposure and temperature ranges: specify AAMA-compliant coatings, stainless steel anchors in marine zones, and anchors designed for thermal movement. Work with a façade engineer to perform deflection checks (L/175 or project-specific limits) and glass breakage risk assessments to set final thickness and framing specifications that meet safety, performance and aesthetic goals.

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How do glass wall curtains handle seismic movement and structural displacement in tall buildings?

Glass wall curtain systems on tall buildings must accommodate seismic movement and inter-story drift to prevent glass failure, gasket rupture, or anchor overload. Designers use movement joints, flexible anchors, and engineered connection details to isolate the glazing from excessive frame movement. Key strategies include slotted anchor plates allowing ± movement, shear clips with movement relays, and tolerance gaps sized per calculated drift values.

Seismic design begins with building movement assumptions from structural engineers (story drift ratios), which inform façade joint sizing and anchor detailing. For unitized systems, incorporate movement tolerances into module-to-module joints; for stick systems, ensure mullion base anchors and head clips permit vertical and lateral adjustment. Metal framing must be detailed with load transfer to primary structure while allowing differential thermal and seismic displacement.

Glass selection also matters: laminated glazing retains fragments upon breakage, reducing hazards during seismic events. Where seismicity is significant, specify seismic-rated glazing systems and conduct non-linear analysis of façade interactions. In Central Asian cities with variable seismic risk—Almaty, Bishkek—coordinate closely with local structural codes and test critical connections.

Installation and QA include verifying anchor slotted lengths, torque settings, and movement clip performance. Periodic inspection post-event verifies that anchors and seals remain functional. With careful engineering, glass wall curtains can maintain integrity and occupant safety under seismic and structural displacement scenarios.