PRANCE metalwork is a leading manufacturer of metal ceiling and facade systems.
What Is the Structural Strength of Composite Metal Wall Panels?
Composite metal wall panels combine two thin aluminum skins bonded to a core material—usually polyethylene or fire-rated mineral core—to deliver lightweight panels with high strength-to-weight ratios. Typical panel thicknesses range from 4 mm to 6 mm total, with skins of 0.5 mm each. Despite minimal weight (6–8 kg/m²), these panels exhibit a flexural rigidity comparable to solid aluminum panels over 1.5 mm thick, making them suitable for façades subjected to moderate wind loads.
Structural strength depends on core density and bonding quality. Fire-rated mineral cores improve stiffness but can add weight, whereas polyethylene cores optimize weight reduction. Panels are tested per ASTM E72 for flexural capacity and ASTM E330 for uniform static air pressure loading; high-quality panels can resist positive and negative pressures up to ±2400 Pa without permanent deformation. Attachment systems—through-fastened, concealed clip, or panel-in-panel—also influence load distribution. Concealed‐clip systems, using extruded aluminum rails, reduce stress concentrations and allow for thermal expansion.
For high-rise or hurricane-prone regions, specify panels with a design wind load resistance factor (φ) and factor of safety per local building codes (e.g., ASCE 7-16). Always review manufacturer’s test certificates and perform periodic on-site inspections of fasteners and sealants to maintain panel integrity. By understanding composite panel properties and attachment details, you can ensure robust, durable façades for any architectural application.