ECW-50

Air permeability	UNE-EN 12152:02	Clase AE
Watertightness	UNE-EN 12154:00	Clase RE1500
Wind resistance	UNE-EN 13116:01	Apto (1500 Pa)

General description

The curtain wall systems are an alternative way of configuring the cladding of a building. Whether for complete facades or combined with traditional construction systems, a glass facade always delivers a special image. The light ECW-50 facade is a stick type system with 50 mm faced mullion and transoms and variable depths depending on requirements. Generally, it is the vertical components or mullion which are attached to the existing structure, whether in concrete, steel or any other type. The transoms or horizontal profiles are attached to the former, transmitting the wind and weight resistance required. The correct use of glazing on facades has countless advantages taking lightness of the facade to the limit. Nevertheless, many aspects have to be considered such as the correct choice of glass, the structural configuration, the fitting details and control of visual connection with the exterior. In this type of systems, of utmost importance is the anchor and fastening of the structure on the one hand, and of the framed transparent or opaque panels on the other. Fastening of panels Basically, the mission of the curtain wall structure is to hold the glass panes and panels which make up the facade. These can be transparent or opaque, depending on the requirements of the interior. The ECW-50 version fixes glass panes or panels with a cap system which keeps them attached to the building structure from the outside. On both sides, the panels are pressed together by rubber seals which ensure durability and impermeability.

Structure

The mullion fasteners have three-dimensional regulation to correct any deviations in the execution of the main structure; in this way, irregularities go unnoticed once the facade has been finished. The system has room for expansion of the aluminium profiles both in mullions and transoms to avoid tensions and undesirable noise especially in the warm months.

Design

In this regard, it is the trim cap which dominates the exterior design, concealing the entire fastening system and the joints between glass panes or panels. With its 50 mm facing and between 15 and 17 mm of depth, the finish and the shadows it projects are determining factors in the design. The curtain wall is increasingly used as creative feature, providing the visual lightness of glass and playing with the configurations and finishes to obtain the singularity required by the whole design.

Performance

ECW-50 has undergone strict tests to ensure all performance ratings and guarantee safety. The internal weep system and double perimeter gasket in EPDM has shown to be fully effective. Due to its configuration, any water seepage during service life flows along the transoms and falls along the mullions. From here, it flows out along the ventilation components or through a weep outlet in the lower part.