How Can Large-Area GRC Curtain Walls Solve Thermal Stress Issues?

Temperature stress control in large-area GRC curtain walls is a key technical challenge in ensuring the long-term safety of the curtain wall system, requiring systematic solutions through scientific structural design, rational material selection, and refined construction control. In the 30,000-square-meter GRC curtain wall project at the Shenzhen Pingshan High-tech Zone Comprehensive Service Center, Qinglong Group successfully resolved temperature deformation issues on the super-large facade through the combined application of temperature stress calculation, deformation joint placement, and flexible connection systems. The project adopted a scheme with deformation joints every 20 meters, 30mm wide, with internal slidable expansion structures, enabling the curtain wall system to freely accommodate deformations caused by temperature changes.

Accurate calculation of temperature stress is the foundation of design. Qinglong uses finite element software to analyze the temperature field of curtain wall systems, taking into account the combined effects of solar radiation, ambient temperature, and material thermal properties. In the Hainan International Convention and Exhibition Center project, we determined a design temperature range of -5°C to +60°C based on year-round temperature monitoring data and calculated the maximum temperature deformation, providing a scientific basis for deformation joint design. The effects of the creep properties of GRC materials were also considered, enabling accurate prediction of stress relaxation during long-term use.

Proper placement of deformation joints is a key measure for releasing temperature stress. Based on curtain wall area, shape, and support conditions, Qinglong divides the curtain wall system into several independent thermal deformation units. The area of each unit is generally kept within 300 square meters, with deformation joints 20-40mm wide between units. The deformation joints are filled with elastic sealant and fitted with compressible backing material to ensure the sealant maintains effective sealing performance even at maximum deformation. At stress concentration areas such as internal and external corners, deformation joints are appropriately spaced more closely.

The flexible design of the connection system can effectively absorb temperature deformation. The GRC-specific bracket system developed by Qinglong features three-dimensional adjustment capability, allowing panels to undergo slight relative displacement during temperature changes and preventing excessive temperature stress within the panels. The connection between brackets and the framing adopts a slotted hole design combined with elastic gaskets, ensuring connection reliability while providing the necessary deformation space. In major projects, stress monitoring systems are also used to monitor temperature stress changes in real time.

Qinglong Group recommends establishing temperature stress monitoring records during the use of large-area GRC curtain walls, documenting stress change data across different seasons and times. These data not only provide a basis for maintaining the current project but also accumulate valuable experience for the design of similar projects. Through technical control throughout the entire process, temperature stress issues in large-area GRC curtain walls can be effectively resolved, ensuring the long-term safety and performance of the curtain wall system.