Structural glass assembly
The term 'structural glass' refers to a frameless assembly of glass where a portion of the structural load is taken by the glass itself rather than by a supporting frame. This can create a brighter enclosed space, a clearer view into and out of a space, and a feeling of 'lightness' compared to more massive conventional types of structure.
Types of structural glass assembly can include:
- Glass floors.
- Frameless glass roofs and rooflights.
- Glass balustrades and staircases.
- Glass walls and partitions.
- Lift shafts.
- Glass facades and canopies.
- Frameless windows (although not all frameless windows are structural).
- Shower enclosures.
Accurate glass specification and fixing details are essential for the safe and secure installation of structural glass assemblies. This might include glass fins and beams to give additional support to the structure, or the use of minimal or hidden fixings.
Composite structures may include elements of structural glass, supported by conventional structures such as cable nets, space frames, beams and columns and so on.
Structural glass typically has additional thickness and strength compared to conventional, framed glass assemblies. It is generally formed using toughened glass or laminated glass. Structural glass assemblies are typically bespoke and so can be expensive.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Big data from smart infrastructure
Timo Hartmann of TU Berlin introduces a themed issue of the ICE Smart Infrastructure and Construction journal.
Freedom of Information request reveals that taxpayers are footing the bill for Carillion's collapse.
Driven piles are used to support buildings, walls and bridges, and can be the most cost-effective deep foundation solution.
Australian landmark celebrates achievement of carbon neutral status five years ahead of schedule.
Non-material amendments can sometimes be necessary after planning permission has been granted. Find out more here.
Six things civil engineers could do to ensure the success of projects.
Dublin housing crisis restricts employers' ability to recruit, according to new U+I research.
Intricate inlays and beautiful patterns can be created with waterjet cutting.
Two historic quarries in environmentally sensitive areas were reopened to repair Exeter Cathedral.
The phrase ‘time at large’ describes the situation where there is no date for completion, or it has become invalid.