Window Wall Systems Flashcards
The metal extrusion between glazing panels that supports the system. They are both used vertically and horizontally.
Mullions
A metal plate secured to the mullion to retain the glass in place, typically 2 or more inches wide, present at each vertical and horizontal mullion.
Pressure Plate
The exterior “cap” of the mullion which covers the pressure plate and is the visible portion of the mullion on the exterior.
Snap cover
In lieu of pressure plate, this holds the glass in place to give more minimal appearance. There id either a gasketed joint or wet-sealed joint a fraction of an inch wide visible between glass panels on the exterior, rather than a 2-inch or wider metal pressure plate and cap.
Structural Silicon
Two or more panels of glass separated by a spacer and filled with an inert gas (Argon, Krypton). Often referred to as double glazed or double-pane (though can include more than 2 layers), this provides improved insulation value over a single pane of exterior.
Insulated Glazing Unit (IGU)
The component that separates the glass panes at the edge of the IGU. It often includes a dessicant material to absorb moisture.
Spacer
Used to separate IGU edge from the mullion/frame at the perimeter.
Setting Blocks
Extruded rubbers used as a glazing seal between the IGU and the mullion. They are compressed into a joint between frame and window at both the exterior and interior.
Gaskets
In lieu of gaskets, this can be installed between IGU and mullion. They are typically silicon applied over a backer rod or glazing tape.
Wet seals
These are glass panels that do not move.
Fixed Glazing
These are hinged or sliding glazed panels that allow for the introduction of fresh air into the building. These require specialized hardware (hinge, latch, etc.) and a “frame within a frame” to hold the glazing in place.
Operable Panel / Operable Vent
As opposed to vision glass, this is an opaque panel of either obscured coated glass or another material (metal, masonry veneer, thin stone). They are typically used to conceal structural elements (Column, slab edges) or interstitial space (above ceilings). There is often a “backpan” or “shadow box” behind the panel to hold/conceal insulation to improve thermal performance of the overall system.
Spandrel Panel
A panel that incorporated louvers for the operation of mechanical units (PTACs, exhaust fans). The louvered panel should be integrated with a sleeve to allow for protection from water infiltration and allows for drainage to the exterior.
Louvered Panel
Used with curtain wall systems, this ties the curtain wall to the slab edges or structural frame. The anchors can be embedded when the slab is poured, or fastened to a slab when the slab is in place.
Anchor
Used with window wall system, it is often a C-shaped channel design to accept the sill, jamb and head of the overall frame to hold the system in place.
Receptor
Separates the exterior metal mullion components from the interior metal mullion components. It is a literal “break” in between the inside and outside portions of the metal frame/mullion. It reduces thermal conduction through frames/mullion by making the metal discontinuous. The break needs to be contiguous throughout the assembly to be effective. Typically, the wider the break, the better.
Thermal Break
This type of system arrives at the site as kit of parts. The mullions/frames are assembled onsite, and the glass/glazing is installed in place.
Stick-Built
This system arrives at the job site in prefabricated panels. Sections of the wall are completely assembled in the factory including the glazing and then set in place.
Unitized System
This wall system spans only a single floor and is supported by the slab above and below. It is installed within the slab edge.
Window Wall System
This wall system is a structurally independent/self-supporting system, typically spanning multiple stories, and is installed proud of/beyond the slab edge.
Curtain Wall System
Functions of Curtain Walls in Buildings
- Elimination of water penetration
- Air Impermeability
- Resistance to wind, thermal and acoustic action
- Solar levels
Types of Curtain Walls
- Stick Curtain Wall System
- Unitized Curtain Wall System
Components of a Curtain Wall
- Transom
- Mullion
- Vision Glass
- Anchor
