The Typology of the Unit Façade System: Fid-Bau Portal

The Typology of the Unit Façade System

Paoletti, Ingrid / Nastri, Massimiliano

The curtain wall system in the cell type (unit system) consists of structurally independent prefabricated components (or modules), connected together with telescopic joints. The system, complete with structural profiles, glazing, jointing and anchoring devices, is used especially for high buildings and in the absence of scaffolding. The constitution of the system assumes the modes of structural and thermo-insulated connection between linear composite elements (in a specular key, with a double chamber section), allowing for the different types of movement and expansion typical of the main structures. The construction takes place by means of the application on the vertical plane (where the brackets are prepared), on which the pairs of hooks necessary for the assembly of the cells are inserted for each vertical mullion. The execution takes place progressively from the bottom to the top of the façade (by means of a crane or winch, placed in the levels above the assembly plane), with the aggregation, vertical and horizontal, of the mullions according to the connection, combined and parallel, of the vertical gaskets. The type of executive interfaces of the mullions allows for the production of angled and segmented surfaces with respect to the façade plane, through the slight opening according to contained angles, on the horizontal axis of connection between the profiles. The mullions and transoms, by means of the extension of the central rib projected in a normal manner to the curtain plane, realize the interface towards the frame profiles, to which the polyamide connectors are connected: these are directed to the junction of the laminar profiles supporting the mechanical retainers, the central gaskets and the double-glazed panels.