Analysis and design of curtain wall systems for high rise buildings

Abstract

[Abstract]: Façades are the first aesthetical feature of a building that distinguish one building from another. Its distinctive appearance is often the subject of controversial debate. Nowadays, Unitized Curtain Wall system is commonly used for new high-rise buildings, it becomes a major investment in both construction and long-term success of the building. Compared to reinforced concrete structure, unitized curtain wall is new technology in the construction industry. This dissertation will focus on the design and analysis of unitized curtain wall for high-rise building, using finite element and structural analysis programme. The curtain wall systems nowadays, even the simpler types, are far more sophisticate products than their early counterparts, though many of the earliest walls are still performing admirably. More than fifty years of experience and development have eliminated the major difficulties of the pioneering designs, resulting in better products. Beginning with the relatively simple, but innovative concept of the early 1950’s, a series of window units and panels jointed and supported by simple framing members. Curtain wall system technology has developed, over the years, into a proliferation of highly engineered design. The author worked in construction industry for 5 years and working in Façade Consultancy for almost 2 years. I am currently engaging in various key Façade projects in Asia. I have found that some people simply think that curtain wall system is just an assembly of glass, aluminium, steel, screw and sealant. Curtian wall system, apart from its appearance, functions as an external enclosure to protect the building from weather and to achieve pressure-equalization between the outdoor and indoor environment. Its construction is not only an assembly of several components, but an advanced technology with involves sophisticated calculation. In this paper, design concerns of the unitized curtain wall system are also regarded as major issue to discuss.