29-03-2014, 03:44 PM
Silicone Structural Glazing The Art of the Possible Design Creativity
Introduction
Today’s Outcome
• Understand the principles of silicone structural glazing and its
benefits
• Be aware of the advantages and safety offered by silicone
structural glazing technology
• Compare different structural and mechanically glazed systems and
understand the difference
• Make informed decisions on aesthetics at sketch design stage
• Know the technical benefits of structural glazing including
earthquake, bomb blast and fire resistance
• Specify structural glazing to European standards
• Understand what support is necessary from manufacturers in
designing and specifying structural glazing
Structural Glazing
• Structural Silicone Glazing = structurally bonding
units (glass, stone, metal sheets,... ) to the
supportive frame with a specially designed
structural silicone
• Strong and long term adhesive properties, UV
resistance, longevity and durability of Silicones
• Glass, Ceramics, Metals, Stone and Composite
panels
• Limitless Design possibilities for Architects – e.g.
“frameless invisible mullion facades”
• Satisfies Essential requirements for a
Construction as defined in Europe and Globally
• Offer several Key advantages for building owner
• Ideal for New building and Renovation
Mechanical Glazing
• Each window or panel is
mechanically retained
• Silicone sealants are not
utilised for adhering or bonding
the windows or panel to the
structure. They may,
however, be used for the
secondary insulating glass seal
or for weather sealing
• It is not possible to achieve a
frameless glass façade using
mechanical fixationBenefits of Silicone
Important Considerations
• Dependence on quality of workmanship - silicone bonding
fabricators/applicators must receive training
• Specialised equipment is required for silicone bonding
application
• Good planning required, especially for unitised systems
where a longer lead time for testing might be required
• The possible requirement for reparation of broken units
needs careful consideration
• Inappropriate applications could include the design of
projects, fishtanks
[b]Structural Glazing ..[/b]
Summary
• Structural Glazing (SG) is a proven design / technology
• SG offers a wide range of advantages and creative
potential versus conventional design / technology
• SG is a recognized technology according to the
European construction authorities / regulations
• Proven performance for over 30 years