Architectural curtain wall design

In architectural terms, "curtain wall" refers to any non-load-bearing external wall suspended on the floor surface, regardless of its structure or cladding material.


Generally, the architectural curtain wall usually refers to an aluminum frame system with glass, panels, shutters or occasionally with granite or marble.

The once-popular "I-beam" wall market penetration has declined. The vertical back member of the "I" or "H" shaped structure is placed in the opening of the site, and then the horizontal line is clamped to the vertical line.

Aluminum curtain wall is a dynamic component

Live-loading movement can cause upward or downward movement. For example, downward moving loads on the lower floor will cause the improperly designed curtain wall anchors on the upper floor to disengage, while the anchor wall remains static, while causing a "crush" effect on the lower floor.


Factors applicable to the basic speed pressure formula include:
Effects of wind gusts, internal pressure, building height, corner areas, exposure and partial closure


The building and its components are designed to withstand the wind loads specified in the code.
Calculating the wind load is important in the design of anti-wind systems, sliding, overturning and lifting.