A curtain wall is a non-structural outer covering for a building's façade, primarily made of lightweight materials such as glass, aluminum, or composite panels. Unlike traditional load-bearing walls, curtain walls do not carry the weight of the building but instead serve as a protective and aesthetically pleasing enclosure. They are commonly used in modern architecture to create visually striking and energy-efficient building exteriors.
Moreover, glass constructions use a type of hardware called a spider fitting to join glass panels to structural components like beams or columns. Consequently, its name stems from the fact that it resembles a spider, with several arms extending from a central hub to secure the glass.
The arms of a spider fitting are typically made of high-strength stainless steel or aluminum; thus, allowing them to securely support the weight of the glass panels.
Spider fittings allow designers to flexibly suspend or cantilever glass panels from structural elements. Consequently, this flexibility enables architects to create dynamic and visually captivating designs that may not be achievable with traditional framing systems.
Moreover, thermal break spider fittings boost glass structure efficiency. These fixtures cut heat transfer in buildings, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing heating and cooling expenses.
Combining spider fittings with sound-insulating glass enhances acoustic control in buildings. This is particularly beneficial in spaces where noise reduction is important, such as offices, libraries, or residential buildings located in noisy urban environments.
Spider fittings can be integrated into the overall design of a building to create a sense of continuity and cohesion. Their slim profiles and customizable options allow them to seamlessly blend with the architectural aesthetic, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the structure.
Spider fittings can contribute to sustainable construction practices by allowing for the use of large glass panels that maximize natural light and, consequently, reduce the need for artificial lighting.
Here are some common size classifications of spider fittings based on arm length or diameter:
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