Solaglas Helps Student

Date: 18 September 2009
Source: Solarglas
BEng Civil & Structural Engineering undergraduate Paul has been investigating the effect of lateral torsional buckling of glass fins.

Glass fins are used on buildings to provide the structural support for ‘all-glass’ façades. Although some direction exists in an Australian Standard, there is currently no British Standard or Eurocode to deal with the phenomenon, so only limited guidance is available to structural engineers when designing glass fins.
 
Having worked with Solaglas Contracting as a sub-contractor providing drawing and surveying services for around five years, Paul approached the company for assistance with his dissertation. Solaglas Contracting agreed to provide Paul with the glass fins required to complete the practical laboratory tests along with access to its team of structural glazing experts.
 
Paul comments: “Solaglas Contracting has been extremely supportive and accommodating. I have been able to tap into their extensive experience to find out more about key issues and problems experienced with glass fins, both in production and on site.” Solaglas also put Paul in contact with consulting engineers Clear Structures, which provided Paul with design and technical expertise.
 
John Harvey, Business Manager of Solaglas Contracting’s London and Midlands division, based in Coventry, comments: “We were happy to help Paul with his research in any way we could and believe that companies have a responsibility to help and encourage those looking to work within the industry.”
 
Tim Davis, Associate Head of Built Environment, at Coventry University agrees: “It’s great for students to be able to access the knowledge and resources contained within local businesses and we are grateful to Solaglas Contracting for the help they have given Paul.”
 
Paul Johnson has completed his degree and is currently considering his options for further study.

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