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Point Fixed Glazing System

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A point-fixed glazing system is a cutting-edge architectural solution that creates seemingly transparent glass surfaces for facades, roofs, and canopies. This innovative system moves away from traditional framed structures, utilizing specialized hardware to fix glass panels directly to a building's structure. The result is a sleek, modern aesthetic that maximizes natural light and offers unobstructed views.

Key Features and Components  〉

The core of the point-fixed glazing system lies in its unique hardware, which includes:

  • Spider Fittings: These are typically multi-armed stainless steel fittings that hold the glass panels in place. They come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate different design requirements and load conditions.

  • Bolts and Routels: Specialized bolts, often with rotating or articulated heads (routels), are used to connect the glass to the spider fittings. These allow for minor movements and prevent stress concentrations on the glass.

  • Glass Panels: The system uses toughened (tempered) or laminated safety glass. The glass is pre-drilled in the factory to allow for the bolt connections.

  • Support Structure: The spider fittings are attached to a secondary support structure, which can be made of steel, tension cables, or even glass fins for a truly minimalist look.

  • Sealants: High-quality silicone sealants are used to fill the joints between the glass panels, ensuring weatherproofing and allowing for thermal expansion and contraction.

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How it works  〉

The fundamental principle of a point-fixed glazing system is to transfer the loads from the glass panels (such as wind load and the weight of the glass itself) through the spider fittings to the building's main structure. The swivel or articulated nature of the bolt connections is crucial, as it allows the glass to flex under load, preventing the buildup of stress that could lead to breakage.

Advantages of Point-Fixed Glazing Systems  〉

  • Transparency and Aesthetics: By eliminating the need for bulky frames, this system creates a seamless and highly transparent appearance, enhancing the visual connection between the interior and exterior.

  • Design Flexibility: The system offers architects significant freedom in creating complex and visually striking glass structures, including curved and sloped surfaces.

  • Natural Light: The maximization of glazed areas allows for an abundance of natural light to enter the building, which can improve the well-being of occupants and reduce the need for artificial lighting.

  • Structural Efficiency: The use of specialized fittings and a well-engineered support structure ensures the safety and stability of the glass facade, even in the face of significant environmental loads.

Applications 〉

  • Point-fixed glazing systems are widely used in a variety of architectural applications, including:

  • Building Facades: Creating a modern and sophisticated building envelope.

  • Atriums and Skylights: Bringing natural light into the heart of a building.

  • Canopies and Entrances: Providing a lightweight and elegant overhead covering.

  • Balustrades and Partitions: Creating transparent safety barriers and interior divisions.

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