The implementation of large uninterrupted areas of attractive architectural glass facades is dependent upon the use of proper glazing support structures (carrier frame) and materials. The recent use of glazing as a component of the building envelope has given rise to the concept of structural glazing.
Structural glazing has redefined modern architecture, allowing architects, engineers, and designers to express their vision through, seemingly, endless design possibilities. The superior quality of the VASGLASS structural glazing portfolio allows for enhanced performance without compromising access to the benefits of natural light.
Our company manufactures structural glazing compatible with the full range of available supporting structures and elements, under the VASSTRUCT brand-name.
Based on the type of special glazing structural systems that are developed to support a façade, we can identify four distinct types of structural glazing:
Two-side support systems, whereby the glass pane is attached to the frame of the building either through the vertical or its horizontal sides.
Four‐side system, whereby the pane is supported within a frame.
Point-fixed support, whereby the pane is bolted on cast stainless steel spider fittings, which are used to tie the glass to the supporting structure.
Glass fin system, whereby the glass pane is at Point-fixed support system, whereby the pane is bolted on cast stainless steel spider fittings, which are used to tie the safety glass to the supporting structure.
POINT-FIXED SPIDER ELEMENTS
Structural glazing sealants must conform to the strictest strength, durability, and weatherability standards. Structural glazing techniques are based on highly demanding specifications and application methods.
Each distinct application of structural glazing requires great attention to detail in the design and manufacturing of the glazing system, as each building differs in terms of the characteristics of its environment, the particular weather conditions that apply in its vicinity, as well as its exposure to daylight and wind.
VASGLASS, adheres to this philosophy and through its resident team of architects and engineers is prepared to design and implement special glazing solutions for highly demanding applications of any scope (thermal insulation, solar control, etc.).
INDICATIVE TYPES OF STRUCTURAL GLAZING
The term “structural glazing” denotes the use of glass as a component of the building envelope by bonding glass to a building’s structural framing members, whereby the glass supporting structure is hidden or is slightly visible. It comprises of a vertical lightweight outer structure designed to bear its own load and the loads typically resulting from wind forces.
The four main structural glazing systems:
Conventional Structural Glazing (using pressure plates)
The most widely and the longer applied type of structural glazing. The architectural glass panes are held in position by means of pressure plate framing. The glass panes are mechanically fastened on the outer part of the frame while they are sealed together using a polysulfide polymer sealant.
Semi-conventional Structural Glazing (without use of pressure plates)
Structural support of glass is achieved through a specially designed aluminum profile which is attached to the frame of the building. The thinly designed aluminum profile allows for a minimal visual footprint of the supporting structure, which substantially differentiates it from the conventional structural glazing system.
Structural Spacer Glazing
In this method, the aluminum profile is fully concealed from the outside of the building. The safety glass pane is mechanically fastened on the specially designed aluminum profile using structural silicone.
Structural Silicone Glazing
Structural support of glass is not provided by mechanical means, but rather by using structural silicone as sealant on all four sides of the metal curtain wall framing system. Glass is the only material visible on the outside of the building.
