The outstanding feature of the system is the enormous spans of glass that can be achieved due to the structure being manufactured from steel profiles.
Derek Quinn, the specification manager of ASD Architectural, said ‘ The fact that the system gets its strength from steel enables much larger spans of glass than are possible with aluminium systems. It is simply not possible for aluminium to provide the same minimalist elegance of this system’.
The overall unsupported height of the façade at the Bentley garage is 7 metres with almost 2 metres between mullions. In addition, an extra challenge was the requirement to slope the façade outward at the top. ASD supplied the necessary technical support to Axion Structural Glazing who are an approved fabricator of ASD systems. The calculation of static and dynamic loading are critical in such designs to prove strength and performance.
Another largely unsold feature of steel, façades is the energy efficiency of steel in comparison to aluminium, due to the lower level of conductivity of steel to aluminium. The RP ISO hermetic 60system is also one of the best performers in weathering tests due to the rigidity of its profiles, and the built in technology of the system.
Derek continued, ‘ It is our plan to give architects greater freedom in the design of glazed facades and fenestration by pushing the boundaries of conventional design through innovation, strength and performance. Our steel and stainless steel systems include fire performance doors and façades, frameless façades, high security doors and screens, and door and window systems in stainless steel, bronze, brass, and cor-ten.’
Contact
Derek Quinn
ASD Architectural
0114 234 5287