VAS-STRUCT - Glazing Support Structures
You are here
VAS-STRUCT
Glazing Support Structures
The implementation of large uninterrupted areas of architecturally attractive 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 VAS “Vasiliou Glass Technologies” structural glazing
portfolio allows for enhanced performance without compromising access to the
benefits of natural light.
VAS “Vasiliou Glass Technologies” manufactures structural glazing compatible
with the full range of available supporting structures and elements, under the VASSTRUCT
brand-name.
Based on the type of 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
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.
VAS “Vasiliou Glass Technologies”, adheres to this philosophy and through its
resident team of architects and engineers is prepared to design and implement
glazing solutions for highly demanding applications of any scope (thermal insulation,
solar control, etc.).
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 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 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.
