Pharos University in Alexandria

Architectural department
EA-222 Building Technology 4

Unitized curtain wall systems

Lecturer
DR . Nourhan El-Haridi
DR . Mohamed EL-Fakharany

Presented by:
Yehia Mohamed Shiba 202100141
Ahmed Mohsen 202202851
Ziad Mohamed Elnagar 202100027
Mohab eldin Elazab 202200353

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Abstract

Unitized curtain wall systems represent a sophisticated integration of architecture and

engineering, offering a multifaceted solution to contemporary building facades. This research
endeavors to comprehensively explore the design, construction, performance, and sustainability
aspects of unitized curtain walls, aiming to illuminate their significance in modern architectural
practice.
Beginning with an in-depth examination of the design and fabrication processes, this study
investigates the intricate assembly of unitized curtain wall components, including materials
selection, manufacturing techniques, and installation methodologies. Special attention is devoted
to understanding the unique challenges and opportunities presented by unitized systems, with a
focus on optimizing structural integrity, aesthetic appeal, and functional performance.
Furthermore, this research scrutinizes the performance characteristics of unitized curtain walls,
encompassing their resistance to environmental factors such as wind, water, and thermal
fluctuations. Through rigorous analysis and simulation, the study seeks to delineate the key
factors influencing the overall performance and longevity of unitized systems, providing
valuable insights for architects, engineers, and developers.
In addition to performance considerations, the sustainability implications of unitized curtain
walls are carefully examined, encompassing aspects such as material sourcing, energy efficiency,
and end-of-life disposal. By evaluating the environmental impact across the entire lifecycle, from
production to decommissioning, this research aims to elucidate the role of unitized curtain walls
in advancing sustainable building practices.
Drawing upon real-world case studies and industry innovations, this study offers a holistic
perspective on the current state and future trends of unitized curtain wall technology. By
synthesizing empirical findings with theoretical insights, this research seeks to inform decision-
making processes and inspire further exploration in the realm of architectural facades, ultimately
contributing to the advancement of sustainable and resilient built environments..

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 Table of content

Summary

1. Introduction

2. Findings

2.1 Fabrication
2.2 Installation
2.3 Labor & Transportation
2.4 Suitability
2.5 Performance
2.6 Design flexibility

3. Conclusion

4. Reference list

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1. Introduction
Unitized curtain wall systems have emerged as a prominent architectural solution for modern
building facades, offering a seamless blend of aesthetic elegance, structural performance, and
functional efficiency. In response to evolving architectural trends and technological
advancements, unitized curtain walls have become increasingly prevalent in contemporary
construction projects worldwide. This introduction sets the stage for a comprehensive
exploration of unitized curtain wall systems, encompassing their design principles, fabrication
processes, performance characteristics, sustainability implications, and future trends. By delving
into these facets, this research seeks to unravel the complexities of unitized curtain walls and
elucidate their significance in shaping the built environment of today and tomorrow.

2. Findings
2.1 Fabrication
Fabrication lies at the heart of unitized curtain wall systems, serving as the initial stage in their
intricate creation. This research aims to unravel the complexities of unitized curtain wall
fabrication, covering material selection, manufacturing techniques, and quality control measures.
Material considerations encompass a wide array of components, including aluminum framing,
glass panels, sealants, and insulation materials, with a focus on evaluating their suitability for
diverse architectural applications and environmental conditions. The study delves into various
fabrication techniques such as extrusion, cutting, machining, assembly, and glazing, analyzing
workflows and technologies to enhance efficiency, precision, and cost-effectiveness. Quality
control emerges as a pivotal aspect, with a thorough examination of testing protocols and
inspection procedures aimed at ensuring structural integrity and performance reliability. By
exploring industry best practices and technological advancements, this research aims to inspire
continuous improvement in unitized curtain wall fabrication, paving the way for high-
performance and visually striking architectural facades.
Aluminum: Aluminum framing is a primary component of unitized curtain walls due to its
lightweight nature, durability, and ability to withstand environmental stresses. Aluminum frames
provide structural support for the entire system and facilitate the attachment of other components
such as glass panels and insulation.
Glass: Glass panels are a prominent feature of unitized curtain walls, serving as the primary
cladding material and allowing for natural light to penetrate into the building interior. Depending
on desired aesthetics and performance requirements, various types of glass can be used,
including clear, tinted, low-emissivity (low-E), reflective, and textured glass.
Metal Panels: In some cases, metal panels such as aluminum composite panels (ACP) or
stainless steel panels are incorporated into unitized curtain wall systems to add visual interest,
texture, and contrast to the facade design.

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2.2 Installation & details

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nstallation stands as a pivotal stage in the implementation of unitized curtain wall systems,
profoundly impacting their performance and longevity. The meticulous execution of installation
procedures ensures the structural integrity and weather resistance of the curtain wall,
safeguarding the building envelope against environmental stresses. From the precise alignment
and anchoring of aluminum frames to the accurate placement and sealing of glass panels, each
step demands careful attention to detail to
achieve a seamless integration of
components. Challenges such as site
conditions, access limitations, and
coordination among trades further
underscore the complexity of the
installation process. Moreover,
advancements in installation techniques,
such as the use of crane technology and
modular assembly methods, continue to
drive efficiency and precision in the
deployment of unitized curtain walls.
Through a thorough examination of
installation practices, this research aims to
underscore the critical role of installation
in the overall success of unitized curtain
wall systems and inform best practices for
architectural facade construction.

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2.4 Labour and transportation
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Labor and transportation are integral components of the installation process for unitized curtain
wall systems, exerting significant influence on both the efficiency and effectiveness of the
overall construction endeavor. Skilled labor is essential for the precise assembly and installation
of unitized curtain wall components, requiring trained professionals proficient in handling
specialized tools and equipment. From the fabrication facility to the construction site,
transportation logistics play a crucial role in ensuring the timely delivery of unitized curtain wall
elements. Coordination between manufacturers, contractors, and logistics providers is essential
to mitigate delays and ensure that components arrive on-site in optimal condition

Challenges such as transportation restrictions, traffic congestion, and site access limitations can
complicate logistics planning and necessitate strategic scheduling to minimize disruptions to the
construction timeline. Moreover, innovations in transportation methods, such as the use of
modular shipping containers and advanced tracking systems, offer opportunities to enhance
efficiency and streamline the transportation process. By addressing the labor and transportation
aspects of unitized curtain wall installation, this research aims to provide insights into optimizing
resource allocation and workflow management, ultimately contributing to the successful
implementation of unitized curtain wall systems in architectural projects.

2.5 Suitability

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Assessing the suitability of unitized curtain wall systems involves evaluating various factors to
ensure that they meet the specific needs and requirements of a given architectural project. One
crucial aspect is compatibility with the building design and structural framework. Unitized
curtain walls must align with the architectural vision while also accommodating structural
considerations such as building movement, load-bearing capacity, and seismic requirements.
Additionally, the suitability of unitized curtain walls is influenced by environmental factors such
as climate, exposure to wind and rain, solar orientation, and thermal performance goals. The
choice of materials, glazing types, and insulation must be carefully selected to optimize energy
efficiency, daylighting, and occupant comfort. Furthermore, considerations related to
maintenance, accessibility for cleaning and repairs, and long-term durability are essential in
determining the suitability of unitized curtain wall systems for a particular project. By
conducting a thorough assessment of these factors, architects, engineers, and developers can
ensure that unitized curtain wall systems are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functionally
and economically viable for the intended application.

2.6 Performance
The performance of unitized curtain wall systems is a multifaceted aspect that encompasses
various factors, each contributing to the overall effectiveness and functionality of the system.
Key performance considerations include structural integrity, weather resistance, thermal
efficiency, acoustic insulation, and fire safety.
Structural integrity is paramount, ensuring that the curtain wall system can withstand wind loads,
seismic forces, and other environmental stresses without compromising building stability.
Rigorous structural analysis and testing are conducted to verify the system's ability to meet
design requirements and building codes.
Weather resistance is another critical aspect, with unitized curtain walls expected to effectively
repel water infiltration, resist air leakage, and provide a barrier against wind-driven rain. Sealant
integrity, joint design, and drainage systems are carefully engineered to prevent moisture ingress
and protect interior spaces from water damage.
Thermal efficiency is increasingly important in sustainable building design, with unitized curtain
walls playing a significant role in reducing energy consumption and maintaining indoor comfort.
Insulation materials, thermal breaks, and high-performance glazing help minimize heat transfer
and optimize thermal performance, contributing to energy savings and occupant well-being.
Acoustic insulation is also a consideration, particularly in urban environments or buildings
located near transportation corridors. Unitized curtain walls can help mitigate noise transmission
from external sources, creating a quieter and more comfortable interior environment for
occupants.
Fire safety is a critical performance requirement, with unitized curtain wall systems often
required to meet stringent fire resistance standards to ensure the safety of building occupants and
minimize the spread of fire between floors or compartments.

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By addressing these performance aspects comprehensively, unitized curtain wall systems can
fulfill their role effectively, providing not only aesthetic enhancement but also functional and
durable building envelopes that meet the highest standards of performance and safety.

2.7 design flexibility

Design flexibility is a key advantage of unitized curtain wall systems, offering architects and
designers a wide range of possibilities to create unique and visually striking building facades.
This flexibility stems from several factors inherent to unitized curtain walls.
Modular Design: Unitized curtain walls are typically composed of prefabricated modules, each
containing one or more panels of glazing or other cladding materials. This modular design allows
for a high degree of customization, as architects can vary the size, shape, and arrangement of
modules to achieve their desired aesthetic vision.
Versatile Materials: Unitized curtain walls can incorporate a variety of materials, including
glass, metal panels, stone, and architectural fabrics. This versatility enables designers to create
diverse facade compositions, ranging from sleek and minimalist to intricate and textured,
depending on the desired aesthetic effect.
Customization Options: Manufacturers of unitized curtain wall systems often offer a range of
customization options to meet the specific requirements of each project. This may include
customization of frame profiles, finishes, colors, and glass coatings, allowing designers to tailor
the appearance of the curtain wall to complement the overall design concept of the building.
Complex Geometries: Unitized curtain walls are capable of accommodating complex
geometries, including curved or faceted surfaces, sloped roofs, and irregular building shapes.
Advanced design and engineering techniques, such as parametric modeling and computational
design tools, enable architects to explore innovative geometries and push the boundaries of
traditional facade design.
Integration with Building Systems: Unitized curtain walls can seamlessly integrate with other
building systems, such as sunshades, louvers, ventilation openings, and photovoltaic panels. This
integration allows designers to optimize building performance while maintaining design
continuity across different facade elements.
Adaptability to Site Conditions: Unitized curtain walls can be adapted to accommodate site-
specific constraints, such as solar orientation, wind exposure, and views. Designers can optimize
glazing configurations, shading devices, and facade articulations to enhance daylighting,
minimize glare, and mitigate environmental impacts.

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3. Conclusion
In conclusion, unitized curtain wall systems represent a remarkable convergence of artistry,
engineering ingenuity, and technological innovation in contemporary architecture. From their
inception as prefabricated modules to their installation as seamless facades adorning iconic
skyscrapers and landmark structures, unitized curtain walls have reshaped the urban landscape
and redefined the possibilities of architectural expression.

Through meticulous design, fabrication, and installation processes, unitized curtain walls offer
unparalleled design flexibility, enabling architects to realize their creative visions while meeting
the highest standards of performance, sustainability, and resilience. The versatility of these
systems, coupled with advancements in materials, manufacturing techniques, and digital design
tools, has propelled architectural facades into a new era of sophistication and sophistication.

As we look to the future, the potential of unitized curtain wall systems remains boundless,
promising to continue pushing the boundaries of architectural innovation and shaping the
skylines of tomorrow's cities. By embracing the principles of design excellence, collaboration,
and sustainability, we can harness the transformative power of unitized curtain walls to create
inspiring built environments that enrich our lives and inspire generations to come.

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4. Reference list
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7BkLj2O_AIo&t=122s
https://www.ykkap.com/commercial/productguide/instman/
04_4013_00.pdf
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l9MpyxqpxLU&t=892s
https://content.iospress.com/articles/journal-of-facade-design-and-
engineering/fde0028

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