How Many Connection Methods Are There Between UHPC Decorative Components and the Main Structure? Connection Technologies and Applicable Scenarios Explained

The connection method between UHPC decorative components and the main structure directly affects installation stability and safety, and the appropriate method must be selected based on component weight, shape, service environment, and main structure type. Clarifying mainstream connection methods, technical key points, and applicable scenarios is key to successful project installation. Drawing on 28 years of installation experience, Qinglong analyzes the core connection technologies.

1. Dry-Hanging Connection: The Mainstream Choice for High-End Curtain Walls

Dry-hanging connection is the core method for UHPC decorative curtain walls, with advantages of removability, easy replacement, and no damage to components or the main structure. The core technology involves fixing UHPC components to pre-embedded steel plates on the main structure via stainless steel hangers (such as angle brackets and support arms), with elastic gaskets set between the hangers and components to absorb vibration and thermal deformation and avoid stress concentration. In the UHPC curtain wall project of the Yirui Biotechnology Building in Shenzhen, Qinglong adopted dry-hanging connection with an installation accuracy of ±2mm. Applicable scenarios include medium and large UHPC curtain wall panels (weight ≤500kg per panel) and the exterior walls of commercial complexes and landmark buildings. The main structure's load-bearing capacity requirements must be met, and connection points require mechanical calculations to ensure wind and seismic resistance performance meets standards. Dry-hanging connection reduces on-site wet work and improves construction efficiency.

2. Embedded Part Connection: The Core Solution Prioritizing Firmness

Embedded part connection achieves integrated casting of pre-embedded steel plates or anchor bars with the main structure, offering strong firmness and suitability for heavy UHPC components. During construction, embedded parts are first fixed to the main structure's rebar framework, and concrete is cast to form an integral unit. Connection holes are reserved during UHPC component production and fastened to the embedded parts with bolts. In the UHPC sculpture project over 3 meters tall at the Shanghai Astronomy Museum, Qinglong adopted embedded part connection to ensure load-bearing safety. Applicable scenarios include heavy components (weight ≥500kg) and load-bearing decorative components such as cornices and large sculptures. Connection strength is high and durability is excellent, but pre-embedding must be done in advance, the construction period is long, and embedded precision requirements are high (position deviation ≤±2mm), requiring BIM technology for precise positioning.

3. Grouting Connection: Balancing Concealment and Integrity

Grouting connection joins UHPC components to the main structure's pre-embedded sleeves via grouting material, offering good concealment and strong integrity. Pre-embedded rebars are set at the bottom of components and inserted into the main structure's pre-embedded sleeves; the gap is filled with high-strength non-shrink grouting material, forming a firm connection after curing. In the UHPC component installation for Yangshengtang Pharmaceutical's Hangzhou Industrial Park, Qinglong adopted grouting connection, with concealed connection points and a clean appearance. Applicable scenarios include indoor decorative components, small wall decorative panels, and molding components, especially suitable for projects with high requirements for appearance integrity. However, the grouting process requires controlling the fluidity and compactness of the grouting material to avoid voids that compromise connection strength, and more than 7 days of curing is required after construction before loads can be applied.

4. Adhesive Bonding Connection: A Convenient Solution for Lightweight Components

Adhesive bonding connection uses special structural adhesive to directly bond UHPC components to the main structure surface, offering convenient construction without complex machinery. Epoxy-based structural adhesive with bond strength ≥3MPa is selected. Before construction, the connection surfaces of the components and the main structure must be ground to remove oil stains and floating dust to ensure firm bonding. In a UHPC decorative molding project for a high-end residence in Nanning, Qinglong adopted adhesive bonding connection, improving construction efficiency by 30%. Applicable scenarios include lightweight components (weight ≤50kg), indoor decorative moldings, and small decorative panels; it is not suitable for outdoor or humid environments (additional protective measures required). Connection areas need regular inspection to avoid connection failure caused by structural adhesive aging, ensuring long-term use safety.