How to Design the Connection Joints Between UHPC Curtain Wall Panels and Steel Frame Keels?

The design of connection nodes between UHPC curtain wall panels and steel frame keels must follow four principles: "clear force transfer, reliable corrosion protection, adjustability, and seismic adaptability." Bolted connections or hanger connections are adopted as the core methods, achieving stable joining through embedded steel plates, anti-corrosion treatment, and flexible gaskets. Through BIM optimization and patented technologies, Qinglong achieves a connection node safety factor ≥1.5, with zero node failure cases across multiple landmark projects.

I. Core Connection Methods: Adapted to Different Load Scenarios

The connection method should be selected according to panel weight and load characteristics. Bolted connection: suitable for heavy panels (weight >500kg) or load-bearing positions; stainless steel bolts (M12–M16) fix the embedded steel plates of the UHPC panel to the steel frame keel, with bolt spacing ≤1.2m; Qinglong's bolted connections provide pull-out resistance ≥6kN and suit large sculptures and oversized panels. Hanger connection: suitable for standard panels (weight ≤500kg), using stainless steel hangers (angle bracket type and support plate type) that are welded or bolted to the keel; Qinglong's hanger connections are easy to install and allow fine adjustment of deviations (±3mm). Flexible connection: in earthquake-prone areas, a "hanger + elastic gasket" connection is adopted, allowing ±5mm displacement to release seismic stress; Qinglong's flexible connection nodes meet a seismic fortification intensity ≥7.

II. Key Node Design Elements: Corrosion Protection, Adjustment, Seismic Resistance

Detail design determines the long-term stability of nodes. Corrosion protection: embedded steel plates (stainless steel 304/316), bolts, and hangers are all anti-corrosion treated; steel frame keels are hot-dip galvanized (thickness ≥85μm); Qinglong uses 316 stainless steel + fluorocarbon coating for coastal projects, delivering an anti-corrosion life ≥20 years. Adjustable design: hangers or bolts are provided with reserved adjustment holes (elongated holes, aperture ≥12mm) to facilitate leveling and plumb adjustment during installation; Qinglong's adjustment holes allow ±5mm fine adjustment, improving installation accuracy. Seismic design: shear pins or limit blocks are set at nodes to restrict excessive displacement while retaining a certain degree of deformability; Qinglong's seismic nodes have passed shaking table tests and meet 8-degree seismic requirements.

III. Qinglong's Node Optimization and Project Practice

Technological innovation and field verification enhance node reliability. BIM optimization: BIM software simulates node loading and installation paths to avoid stress concentration; for the double-curved panel nodes of Qinglong's Guangxi New Media Center project, stress concentration was reduced by 30% after BIM optimization. Patented technology: an integrated "embedded steel plate + stiffening rib" design improves node anchoring strength; this Qinglong patent increases node pull-out resistance by 25%. Project cases: the public art components at the Shanghai Astronomy Museum (weighing over 700kg) use bolted connection nodes with a safety factor of 1.8 and no loosening over long-term use; at the Shenzhen Pingshan High-tech Zone Comprehensive Service Center, hanger connection nodes achieved installation precision ≤±2mm with flat, even joints.