How to Design the Connection Joints Between UHPC Curtain Wall Panels and Steel Frame Keels?

The connection joint design between UHPC curtain wall panels and steel frame keels must achieve four major functions: "reliable load transfer, three-dimensional adjustability, deformation adaptability, and durability with corrosion resistance." Its core lies in anchor selection and joint construction. In large-scale projects, Qinglong Group commonly adopts a combined system of "aluminum alloy or stainless steel anchors + hot-dip galvanized steel keels": the anchors connect to the UHPC panels via pre-embedded stainless steel sleeves with an anchoring depth of ≥40mm; the anchors connect to the steel keels via slotted-hole bolts, enabling three-dimensional adjustment (adjustment range typically ±15mm); the joint design must account for thermal deformation, allowing the panels a certain degree of in-plane slippage. In the Nanning Wuxiang China Resources MixC One project, we adopted the patented "three-dimensionally adjustable hinged anchor," which enables UHPC panels to effectively release thermal stress while withstanding wind loads and seismic actions; all metal components are hot-dip galvanized or made of stainless steel, ensuring a service life equal to that of UHPC. Connection joints are the "joints" of the curtain wall system, and their reliability is vital to overall safety.

The connection between anchors and panels must ensure anchoring strength

Pre-embedded sleeves are the best choice; their tensile pull-out capacity must be verified by testing (safety factor ≥4). We use specialized installation tools to ensure precise control of anchor torque. Post-installed anchoring solutions must be used with caution and verified with on-site pull-out tests.

The connection between anchors and keels must facilitate installation and adjustment

The slotted-hole design allows adjustment in the X and Y directions, while set screws enable fine adjustment in the Z direction. We require that, after installation, the anchors must not be rigidly welded entirely to the keels; a certain movement allowance must be retained to accommodate deformation.

Anti-corrosion and insulation treatments are the guarantee of durability

Steel keels must be hot-dip galvanized (zinc coating thickness ≥85μm). When dissimilar metals come into contact (e.g., stainless steel anchors with galvanized steel keels), insulating washers (e.g., nylon washers) must be added to prevent electrochemical corrosion. All exposed bolts must be protected with sealant.

Refined joint design is where curtain wall safety shows in the details. Backed by years of structural design experience, Qinglong Group provides the optimal solution for every connection point.