How do you add a robust railing to a special location without spoiling the view? Simple: by installing an Easy Glass Max glass railing system.
In 2016, Q-railing’s ultra-strong railing solution was installed in the recently renovated cruise-ship terminal at Puerto de la Luz in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria. It ensures safe public access while also allowing users to take in the waterfront setting.
Geographical benefits
Puerto de la Luz, which means Port of Light, lies at the intersection of several major sea routes. As a result, it is one of the busiest Spanish ports, playing a significant role in international trade. Impressively, it has connections with more than 500 other ports in 135 different countries.
Extensive renovation
To secure the port’s future as an all-weathers anchorage, and to help it cope with the growing number of tourists arriving on cruise ships, the Autoridad Portuaria de Las Palmas ordered an extensive renovation.
Work at the cruise terminal included installation of a glass railing system to protect embarking and disembarking visitors. Given its setting, on a raised walkway, the structure had to meet stringent international safety standards.
It also had to be capable of dealing with challenging coastal conditions, including salt spray. All this while still allowing members of the public to enjoy the view.
Sturdy railing
Romera y Ruiz Arquitectos had worked with Q-railing products previously, and were keen to do so again. For this project, they selected Q-railing’s Easy Glass Max glass railing, which allowed them to create a design with almost no opaque parts.
Local glass-working company Cristalería Cruz Perez S.A. installed 70 metres of balustrade, with a minimalist stainless-steel cap rail topping the glass infills.
Installing the glass railing system
Easy Glass Max was also a perfect choice from a safety perspective. The system is able to cope with line loads in excess of 5 kN/m. It complies with all relevant international safety standards and building regulations, as specified by the architects.
The base shoes are engineered for maximum safety, but remain extremely light. Made from aluminium, they can be moved around with ease. For extra convenience, the system is mounted using hexagon-head anchors, which let you make minor adjustments with very little fuss.