How Does Large-Area GRC Curtain Wall Solve Thermal Stress Problems? Qinglong GRC Thermal Deformation Control Technology

Temperature stress control of large-area GRC curtain walls is a design key, requiring rational joint design, connection detailing, and material selection to accommodate thermal deformation. Based on thermal calculations and engineering practice, Qinglong GRC has developed a scientific temperature stress control system.

In a cultural center project in Xinjiang (curtain wall area of 38,000 ㎡, annual temperature difference of 70℃), Qinglong GRC controlled the curtain wall panel dimensions to 1.2m×3.6m through precise calculation, set expansion joint spacing at ≤15m with a joint width of 20mm. The connection system features a slotted hole design allowing ±10mm of thermal movement. Over three years of measurement, the maximum thermal deformation was 8mm, fully within the system's allowable range, with no cracking whatsoever.

Joint Design Principles

Panel dimensions are calculated based on the amount of thermal deformation, generally ≤1.5m×4m; expansion joint spacing ≤15m, with joint width calculated as ΔL=α·L·ΔT plus a safety factor; joints are filled with elastic sealant with movement capability ≥25%. This design effectively releases thermal stress.

Connection Detailing Measures

Hangers adopt a slotted hole design allowing horizontal movement ≥10mm; sliding shims are provided with a friction coefficient ≤0.1; an elastic cushion layer is placed between connectors and the structure to avoid rigid contact. These details accommodate thermal deformation.

Material Thermal Performance Control

Control the GRC coefficient of linear expansion at ≤1.0×10⁻⁵/℃; select sealant with a moderate elastic modulus; increase fiber content to control drying shrinkage cracks. Material performance is the fundamental safeguard.

Construction Timing Control

Avoid installation during high-temperature periods and choose seasons with relatively stable temperatures; measure the actual temperature during installation and reserve appropriate deformation allowance; set initial positions strictly according to the design temperature. These controls reduce construction errors.

Thermal stress requires systematic control. Detailed thermal calculations and the installation of necessary monitoring points are recommended. Qinglong GRC provides professional thermal stress solutions to ensure the long-term safety of curtain walls.