One of the most common questions we get in regards to the
structural aspect of architectural precast is "How
do you connect the system to the structure, and what must
the architect/engineer consider? We will attempt to give
some basic instruction into the methodology that our staff
of professional engineers and drafters use in developing
connections for a typical project. Our goal is to guide
you to make wise choices when designing a project, especially
in the early phases of design, which will allow an efficient
and safe connection of a precast façade panel system
to your structure.
The initial decision of connection types will be predicated
to a large extent upon what your superstructure is comprised
of, that is, structural steel frame, cast-in-place concrete
or some other type of structure. Differing underlying structural
systems require different approaches to the design of the
connections to be used on the project. Rest assured that
our staff of professional engineers and drafting personnel
has the experience to meet your requirements regardless
of what structural system you choose.
There are generally two conditions that must be satisfied
to maintain a high quality precast-to-structure interface.
1) The gravity weight of the precast panel, and any superimposed
gravity loads carried by the panel must be transferred to
the structure.
2) Wind and seismic loads that act upon the precast panel
must be transferred to the structure.
The first of these two conditions is generally handled by
means of a bearing stub that projects from the back of the
panel which either bears directly on the supporting structure
or on special brackets provided by the structural contractor.
It is not good practice to use these "bearing"
connections to anchor the panel in any lateral fashion,
but rather they should remain "free". See our
connections page for some examples.
The second of these two conditions is generally met via
multiple "lateral" tie back connections. These
connections are designed to provide adjustability during
erection yet provide a positive fixed connection when final
adjustment has been achieved. See our connections page for
some examples.
Click on the link below to view a typical loading scheme
for a typical spandrel panel arrangement in PDF Format.
Typical Loading Scheme
