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 is the core technology of the curtain wall system, and its rationality directly affects structural safety and service life. Qinglong Group summarizes the design principles of connection joints into four key points: "clear force transmission, multiple lines of defense, flexible connection, and three-dimensional adjustability". In the Wuhan Han Show Theatre project, the omnidirectional joint system we developed successfully solved the complex connection problems of double-curved panels, achieving a perfect combination of art and technology. Refined joint design is the key to a safe and reliable curtain wall system.

The force transmission path of connection joints must be clear and definite to avoid stress concentration. Qinglong uses finite element software to analyze the stress state of joints, ensuring that loads are effectively transmitted to the main structure through embedded parts. The connection between hangers and keels should adopt a slotted hole design to allow adjustment for temperature deformation. The safety factor for shear bearing capacity at joints should not be less than 3.0, and the safety factor for pull-out bearing capacity should not be less than 2.5. In the Hainan typhoon zone project, we specially added anti-detachment clips to provide a second line of safety.

Flexible connection is an important measure for accommodating deformation. The elastic gasket system developed by Qinglong can absorb ±3mm of displacement, effectively relieving thermal stress and structural deformation. Connection bolts should be torque-controlled high-strength bolts to ensure uniform and reliable preload. For critical joints, we conduct physical pull-out tests to verify their ultimate bearing capacity. In the Yangshengtang Pharmaceutical Hangzhou Industrial Park project, digital archives were established for all connection joints, enabling full life-cycle management.

Three-dimensionally adjustable mechanisms are a standard configuration of modern curtain wall joints. Qinglong's adjustment system allows panels to be adjusted by ±10mm in the X, Y, and Z directions, effectively absorbing construction tolerances. After adjustment, locking devices are used to secure the joints and prevent displacement during use. In the Shenzhen Yirui Biotech Building project, we adopted laser positioning technology to control joint installation accuracy within ±1mm.

Anti-corrosion design guarantees joint durability. Qinglong selects appropriate anti-corrosion schemes according to different environments: hot-dip galvanizing for general areas, and stainless steel or fluorocarbon coating for highly corrosive coastal environments. Establishing a regular inspection and maintenance system is equally important; it is recommended to conduct a comprehensive inspection of the joints every 5 years to ensure the long-term safety of the curtain wall system.