What is the conventional thickness range of UHPC curtain wall panels?

The thickness design of UHPC curtain wall panels must balance mechanical performance, architectural expression, and economy, with a conventional thickness range of 12-30mm. Based on 28 years of curtain wall engineering experience, Qinglong Group believes that the thickness of high-quality UHPC curtain wall panels should be scientifically determined according to panel size, support conditions, and wind load—generally 15-20mm for flat panels and 20-30mm for large panels or specially shaped panels.

Panel size is the primary factor in determining thickness. Standard panels (1.2m×2.4m) are typically 15-18mm thick, which satisfies most wind pressure requirements. In the Shenzhen Yirui Biotechnology Building project, Qinglong Group optimized panel thickness through finite element analysis, setting the thickness of large 2.4m×3.6m panels at 22mm with deflection controlled within L/250. Panel thickness is proportional to the square of the panel size and must be precisely determined through calculation to avoid excessive conservatism or insufficiency.

Support conditions affect thickness selection. Four-point supported panels can be 20%-30% thinner than two-way supported panels. In the Nanning Wuxiang China Resources MixC project, Qinglong Group optimized the support point layout, reducing panel thickness from 20mm to 16mm and saving 20% in material. Cantilevered panels require thickening at the cantilevered end, with thickness increased by 30%-50%. Connection point positions also need to be considered to avoid localized thickening caused by stress concentration.

Wind load magnitude directly determines thickness. In regions with a basic wind pressure of 0.5kPa, thickness can be reduced to 12-15mm, while regions with 1.0kPa require 18-22mm. In projects in coastal typhoon areas, Qinglong Group determined wind pressure distribution through wind tunnel tests and adjusted panel thickness accordingly, ensuring safety while saving material. This scientific thickness design enables UHPC curtain wall panels to achieve an optimal balance between lightweighting and safety.