How Can UHPC Shaping Achieve Integration with Metal Components? Dissimilar Material Joining and Qinglong Group's System Integration Technology

The combination of UHPC shaping with metal components requires solving three major technical challenges: "material property differences, thermal expansion coefficient matching, and durability coordination." The core lies in designing rational "connection interfaces" and "stress release" configurations. Qinglong Group has successfully applied various connection methods, including the "embedded insert method, post-installed anchoring method, and hooking method," in projects such as the cantilevered canopy of the Shenzhen Yirui Biotechnology Building and the roofing system of the Hainan International Convention and Exhibition Center. For critical load-bearing joints, embedded stainless steel sleeves or anchor bolts are preferred; their embedment depth (typically ≥10 times the bolt diameter) and spacing are determined through finite element analysis to ensure a pull-out resistance of ≥5kN. In the Wuhan Han Show Theatre project, we achieved rigid connections by embedding ribbed steel plates in the UHPC and then welding them to the steel structure, ensuring the overall stability of the complex form. Scientific connection design is the guarantee of coordinated performance between dissimilar materials.

Embedded Connections Provide the Highest Reliability

Before UHPC casting, metal connectors (such as steel plates, threaded rods, and sleeves) are precisely positioned and fixed in the mold so that they are formed integrally with the UHPC. This method offers high connection strength and excellent reliability. The key is to ensure that the embedded inserts are accurately positioned (tolerance ≤±2mm) and firmly bonded to the UHPC. We use dedicated positioning fixtures and high-strength non-shrink grout to ensure that the interfacial bond strength exceeds the strength of the UHPC body itself. The embedded method is suitable for factory prefabrication with controllable quality.

Post-Installed Anchoring Offers Strong Adaptability

For on-site installation or renovation projects, post-installed anchoring techniques are commonly used, such as chemical anchors or undercut anchors. This requires drilling holes in the UHPC and injecting anchoring adhesive or applying mechanical expansion for fixing. This method is highly flexible, but it imposes strict requirements on drilling accuracy, hole-cleaning quality, and adhesive performance. Qinglong Group stipulates that post-installed anchoring work must be performed by trained and qualified personnel and verified through on-site pull-out tests.

Hooked and Flexible Connections Absorb Deformation

For non-load-bearing areas or areas where deformation needs to be released, hooked flexible connections can be adopted. Metal hangers are fixed to the main structure, and UHPC panels are hung onto them via slots or clips, allowing slight movements caused by temperature changes. This connection method avoids the restraint stresses associated with rigid connections and is particularly suitable for large-sized panels or regions with significant temperature variations. Our patented adjustable hangers enable fine adjustment in three dimensions, facilitating precise control of installation accuracy.