Installation of GRC Components of Different Weights: Differentiated Solutions for Safety and Efficiency

GRC component installation requires "tailoring the approach to weight" — different weights correspond to dedicated installation plans, ensuring safety and stability while also accounting for construction efficiency. Qinglong Group, which has undertaken all kinds of projects from lightweight mouldings to heavy sculptures, has summed up over 28 years of practice an installation system covering the full weight range, adaptable to different project needs.

GRC components vary considerably in weight: lightweight components weigh ≤20kg per piece, medium ones 20-50kg, and heavy ones >50kg, so installation methods must be flexibly adjusted according to weight, dimensions, and installation height. In projects such as Shanghai Xinghewan and the Shanghai Astronomy Museum, Qinglong achieved a balance of safety and efficiency through differentiated installation plans.

Lightweight GRC Components (≤20kg): Adhesive Bonding + Anchor Nail Composite Installation

Lightweight components such as decorative mouldings and small window surrounds adopt a composite method of "special adhesive bonding + mechanical anchor nailing". The adhesive must be GRC-specific glue that complies with industry standards, applied evenly, with a bonding area of no less than 60% of the component's surface area. Anchor nails should be spaced no more than 500mm apart, with edge distances of no less than 40mm. In the Zhongshan Kaiyin New Town project, Qinglong applied this method to lightweight GRC railings and window surrounds, achieving efficient construction and secure installation with a 100% pass rate.

Medium GRC Components (20-50kg): Dry-Hanging Installation

Medium components such as standard curtain wall panels and decorative panels adopt dry-hanging installation, connected to the wall's embedded steel frame via hangers. Hangers are made of stainless steel or hot-dip galvanized steel, with a load-bearing capacity of at least 1.5 times the component weight. During installation, three-dimensionally adjustable hangers are used to precisely control the flatness and verticality of components, with tolerances of no more than ±2mm. In the Jiaxing Zhongguancun Shopping Center project, Qinglong used dry-hanging installation for the medium GRC atrium parapets, which proved convenient for both construction and later maintenance.

Heavy GRC Components (>50kg): Steel Frame Support + Multi-Point Fixing

Heavy components such as large reliefs, special-shaped sculptures, and long-span panels require dedicated steel frame support. The steel frame must first be installed, fixed, and pass acceptance inspection before component installation begins. Components are fixed to the steel frame at multiple points, with anti-corrosion washers set at connection joints to ensure even load distribution. In the Shanghai Astronomy Museum public art project, Qinglong fixed a GRC sculpture weighing over 700kg using a "steel frame + embedded steel plate + high-strength bolt" approach, simulating the lifting and installation procedures through BIM to ensure safe and precise positioning.

The core of the installation differences among GRC components of different weights lies in balancing safety and efficiency. For 28 years, Qinglong has consistently adhered to the "safety first" principle, formulating scientific installation plans based on component weight and combining advanced techniques such as BIM technology and 3D scanning positioning to ensure the installation quality of all component types. The application of differentiated installation plans not only guarantees project safety but also improves construction efficiency, creating greater value for clients.