What Are the Connection Methods Between GRC Curtain Walls and the Main Structure?

The connection method between GRC curtain walls and the main structure directly affects the safety and adaptability of the curtain wall system. Based on 28 years of engineering practice, Qinglong Group has classified GRC curtain wall connections into three major categories: point connections, line connections, and surface connections, making differentiated choices according to building characteristics, structural forms, and load requirements.

Point connection is the most commonly used connection method for GRC curtain walls, mainly including back-bolt connection and inclined-insertion connection. Back-bolt connection embeds stainless steel sleeves in the back of GRC panels and connects them to the main structure with stainless steel anchors. In the Shenzhen Yirui Biotech Building project, Qinglong Group designed a four-point back-bolt connection for 20mm thick GRC panels, with a single anchor achieving a pull-out resistance of 15kN, effectively resisting wind loads in typhoon-prone areas. Inclined-insertion connection works through the insertion of panel-side embedded parts into columns, and is suitable for unitized curtain wall systems. In the Algeria hotel project, this connection method enabled the rapid installation of 50mm thick hollow-out panels.

Line connections are mainly used for continuous support at panel joints, including channel connections and snap-fit connections. In the light-transmitting UHPC project at Shanghai Century Plaza, Qinglong Group adopted an aluminum alloy channel connection system, which ensured the continuity of panel joints while absorbing thermal deformation. Snap-fit connections achieve rapid panel positioning through prefabricated clamping slots, demonstrating the advantage of efficient installation in the colored hollow-out panel project of the Nanning Liyuan Hotel.

Surface connections are suitable for parts requiring integrated load-bearing, such as GRC insulation-decorative integrated panels. In the Yangshengtang Pharmaceutical Hangzhou Industrial Park project, Qinglong Group adopted a combined bonding-anchoring connection technology, combining specialized bonding mortar with mechanical anchoring to ensure the safety and reliability of 12,000 square meters of exterior wall panels. This connection method is particularly suitable for seismic fortification zones and can effectively improve the overall integrity of the curtain wall.

Connection design also needs to consider thermal bridge prevention and deformation adaptation. In the Wuhan Hanxiu Theater project, Qinglong Group used stainless steel thermal insulation gaskets and flexible rubber pads, blocking thermal bridge conduction while allowing slight deformation of panels. Through scientific connection design, GRC curtain walls can ensure safety while achieving architectural expressiveness.