Glazed Curtain Wall: Types and Components

Overview

This document describes a type of glazed curtain wall system characterized by external aluminium bead retention and unitised facade construction. The system involves glazed panels or spandrels fixed to a unit frame using continuous external aluminium glazing beads.

Key Components

• External Aluminium Glazing Bead: A continuous bead that secures the glazed panels or spandrels to the unit frame externally.
• Unit Frame: The structural frame to which the glazed panels are attached.
• Mullion: Vertical structural element in the curtain wall system.
• Intermediate Transom: Horizontal structural element between mullions.
• Top and Bottom Transoms: Horizontal framing members at the top and bottom of the curtain wall units.
• Vertical Gasket: Sealing component providing weatherproofing and insulation along vertical joints.
• Saddle Gasket: Sealing component typically used at horizontal joints or transoms.
• Thermal Break: Insulating material integrated within the frame to reduce thermal bridging and improve energy efficiency.
• Insulation in Wall: Additional insulation incorporated within the wall assembly to enhance thermal performance.

Typical Sections

The document references typical vertical and horizontal sections illustrating the arrangement of mullions, transoms, gaskets, glazing beads, and thermal breaks. These sections demonstrate how components integrate to form a weather-tight, thermally efficient facade.

Summary of Critical Information

• The system uses external aluminium beads for glazing retention, facilitating unitised facade assembly.
• Thermal breaks and gaskets are essential for ensuring thermal insulation and weatherproofing.
• The curtain wall is composed of vertical mullions and horizontal transoms, with specific gasket types applied at joints.
• Insulation is incorporated within the wall to enhance energy performance.

This configuration is typical for modern unitised curtain wall facades aiming for efficient installation, durability, and thermal performance.