STRUCTURAL GLASS FACADES - USC School of Architecture

Size Limitation: Viracon, the largest US glass fabricator, limits tempered glass sizes to
84" x 165" or 96" x 144" (2134 x 4191 or 2438 x 3658mm); see Table 2-9. Sizes will
vary between fabricators.
Application: Tempered glass is used where maximum strength is needed to handle
global and local loads. It is generally the material of choice in point-fixed glass
applications.
6.2.3.2 Panel Type
Only the basic variations are included here. Laminated, insulated, and laminated-insulated
panels can come in multiple-ply configurations in response to various performance criteria.
Triple-insulated glazing is increasing in use for reasons of thermal performance. Laminated
glass in multiple-ply with varied ply thickness has demonstrated improved acoustic
properties, as has laminated-insulated panels in varied ply thickness. The use of glass as a
structural material, as in application as stair treads and landings, calls for multiple-ply
laminates of at least 3-ply and often 5-ply.
Monolithic
Description: Generally in the industry the term monolithic refers to single glazing; a
single pane of glass in application. Building codes however, sometimes also refer to
laminated glass panels as monolithic. The highest transparency with respect to a
frameless glass system on any façade structure type is provided by monolithic glazing.
The smallest butt-glazed silicone joint can be used with monolithic glass. Unfortunately,
single-glazing also provides the worst thermal performance.
Fabrication: Annealed monolithic panes are the most flexible in terms of machining. In
fact, all machining operations must be completed on annealed glass before any heattreatment.
The universe of glass coatings, discussed in a limited manner in Chapter 2,
250