What Are the Connection Methods Between GRC Curtain Walls and the Main Structure?

The connection methods between GRC curtain walls and the main structure mainly include four types: dry-hanging connection, welded connection, adhesive bonding connection, and embedded connection. Each method suits different component types, load conditions, and installation scenarios. Qinglong optimizes connection joint design through BIM technology and, drawing on 28 years of project experience, ensures firm and reliable connections that meet the needs of various landmark projects.

1. Dry-Hanging Connection: The Mainstream Preferred Method for Curtain Walls

Dry-hanging connection is the most widely used connection method for GRC curtain walls, with the core advantages of being detachable and having clear force transmission. Connection principle: GRC components are suspended from the main structure (concrete walls, steel structures) via embedded parts and stainless steel hangers (angle brackets, support plates), with a 20-50mm gap reserved between components and the main structure for waterproofing and deformation compensation; Applicable scenarios: conventional curtain wall panels, large flat panel components, and high-rise projects. All 30,000㎡ of GRC curtain wall at Qinglong's Shenzhen Pingshan High-tech Zone Comprehensive Service Center adopts dry-hanging connection; Technical requirements: hangers are made of stainless steel 304/316, with spacing ≤1.5m and ≥4 hangers per component. Qinglong's hangers have a pull-out resistance ≥5kN, meeting wind load and seismic action requirements; Joint treatment: the gap is filled with insulation material + weather-resistant sealant, with exterior adhesive sealing. Qinglong's joints achieve a 100% waterproofing pass rate.

2. Welded Connection: A Reliable Choice for Heavy Components

Welded connection is suitable for heavy and irregularly shaped GRC components, offering high connection strength and strong stability. Connection principle: steel plates are pre-embedded in components and welded on site to the steel framework or embedded iron parts of the main structure for fixing, with welds transmitting loads; Applicable scenarios: heavy sculptures, large irregular components (weight ≥500kg), and areas with complex loading. Qinglong's public art GRC sculptures at the Shanghai Astronomy Museum adopt welded connection; Technical requirements: welds are fillet welds or butt welds with height ≥8mm; after welding, anti-corrosion treatment is applied (anti-rust paint + topcoat). Qinglong's welds pass non-destructive testing, with anti-corrosion coating thickness ≥150μm; Precautions: temperature is controlled to ≤100℃ during welding to avoid heat damage to GRC components. Qinglong uses a low-temperature welding process, keeping component surface temperature ≤80℃.

3. Adhesive Bonding and Embedded Connections: Auxiliary and Concealed Options

These two methods serve as supplementary connections for specific scenarios. Adhesive bonding connection: epoxy structural adhesive bonds lightweight GRC components (weight ≤50kg/m) to the main structure, suitable for interior decorative moldings and small hangers. Part of Qinglong's interior decorative moldings use adhesive bonding, with structural adhesive bond strength ≥3.0MPa; Embedded connection: grooves are reserved in the main structure, and components are embedded and fixed with grouting material, suitable for decorative moldings, copings, and other parts requiring concealed connections. Qinglong's decorative moldings at the Nanning Liyuan Hotel adopt embedded connection, with embedding depth ≥50mm and grouting material compressive strength ≥40MPa; Usage limitations: adhesive bonding is only suitable for dry indoor environments, while embedded connections require proper waterproofing treatment to prevent rainwater from seeping into the grooves.