(2756 products available)
Ready to Ship
Ready to Ship
Ready to Ship
A mullion and transom curtain wall is a system of exterior walls used in tall buildings. It consists of vertical elements called mullions and horizontal elements called transoms. This wall is designed to allow natural light to penetrate into the building while providing structural support and aesthetic appeal. Here are some types of mullion and transom curtain walls:
Aluminum Curtain Wall:
The aluminum curtain wall transom and mullion system are exterior walls that are not load-bearing. This means the walls support themselves instead of the building structure. They are usually made of lightweight aluminum framing with infill materials like glass, metal panels, or stone. This system is popular among high-rise buildings and commercial structures. This is because they offer a modern aesthetic design. They also provide high-performance weather resistance. The system's aluminum construction ensures that it is resistant to corrosion. Additionally, it requires little maintenance. The separation of exterior walls from structural columns allows for flexibility in design. More importantly, it enables the use of large glass surfaces.
Steel Curtain Wall:
Steel mullion and transom systems are similar to aluminum systems. However, instead of aluminum, they use steel framing. This makes them more robust and capable of accommodating larger spans of glass. Like the aluminum system, the steel system is also non-load bearing. They are usually anchored to the building's structural frame. Steel systems are often used in applications where a more industrial aesthetic look is required. They are also used where higher structural integrity is needed. For example, in warehouses or factories. While steel systems allow for thinner and more robust profiles, they may require more maintenance. This is because, unlike aluminum, steel is susceptible to rust and corrosion.
Stick-Built Curtain Wall:
This type of curtain wall is constructed on-site using individual pieces. These include mullions, transoms, and infill panels. The name stick-built comes from the process of building the wall system one stick (or component) at a time. This allows for greater flexibility in the arrangement and design of the wall. However, this flexibility comes at the cost of increased construction time. It also comes at the cost of potential on-site errors. The stick-built system is best suited for low to mid-rise buildings. This is because the construction method is often less efficient for high-rise structures. High-rise structures require more sophisticated and efficient construction techniques.
Unitized Curtain Wall:
Unlike the stick-built system, the unitized curtain wall is constructed off-site. It is built as a complete unit, including mullions, transoms, and infill panels. This construction method allows for high levels of quality control. It also allows for precision fabrication in a factory setting. The unitized system is then hoisted into place during the installation process. This helps to minimize on-site construction time. It also minimizes the potential for errors. This system is often used in high-rise buildings due to the efficiency of the installation process. The unitized system can significantly reduce the time required to complete the exterior envelope of the building.
Mullions and transoms serve as the framework for curtain walls, particularly for glass walls. Their main purpose is to support the infill, which consists of materials like:
The curtain wall's structural integrity heavily depends on the mullions and transoms. They bear the weight of the infill materials and distribute it to the building's structural elements. This ensures a stable and secure facade.
Mullions are vertical elements in a curtain wall system. Their main purpose is to divide and organize the infill panels. This creates a visually appealing and cohesive appearance. In addition, they offer structural support by transferring loads from the infill panels to the frame. This includes wind loads and gravitational forces. Moreover, mullions enhance the rigidity of the curtain wall. They minimize the flexing and bending of the infill panels. This leads to better overall stability.
Transoms are horizontal elements of a curtain wall system. Like mullions, they also divide and organize the infill panels to ensure uniformity and structural integrity. They also share similar structural support roles as mullions. However, transoms mainly carry vertical loads. Also, they help to create a continuous horizontal line of vision. This is particularly in the case of glass infills.
Whether mullion or transom, these curtain wall components have special features that enhance their functionality.
Mullion and transom curtain walls are widely used in commercial construction and some residential buildings. The scenarios include:
Commercial Office Buildings
Mullion and transom systems are commonly found in corporate settings, especially in high-rise office structures. These systems create a professional facade, allowing for ample natural light in interior workspaces. The geometric grid pattern formed by the mullions and transoms provides not only structural support but also a visually appealing aspect. The arrangement of these elements permits the integration of various materials, such as glass, stone veneer, and metal panels, catering to different corporate branding needs.
Hotels and Hospitality Venues
Hotels utilize mullion and transom systems to provide an attractive and welcoming exterior for guests. The combination of different materials through the mullion and transom framework creates a luxurious feel, while the transoms' horizontal lines offer a sprawling impression. Additionally, the curtain wall systems contribute to the building's energy efficiency by allowing the integration of insulated glass units. This feature is particularly important in maintaining a comfortable atmosphere for guests while minimizing energy expenses.
Retail Stores and Shopping Malls
Mullion and transom systems are common in retail stores to create an inviting front display that attracts customers. The large glass surfaces made possible by these systems allow passersby to see merchandise displayed inside the store. Additionally, the structure's versatility enables the integration of different facade elements, such as illuminated signage and decorative cladding, enhancing the store's visual appeal. In shopping malls, these systems create striking communal spaces that house stores, eateries, and entertainment venues.
Educational Institutions
Mullion and transoms are often seen in academic buildings to create a welcoming and light-filled learning environment. These systems allow the integration of high-performance glazing, which is vital for energy-efficient campus buildings. Furthermore, the durable construction of the mullion-transom systems ensures the longevity of the academic structures. In addition, the systems can be adapted to include school logos or unique design elements that foster a sense of community among students and staff.
Health Facilities
Hospitals and clinics utilize mullion and transom systems to create a soothing and secure atmosphere for patients and medical personnel. Large glass surfaces allow natural light to enter, creating a more inviting and comfortable environment for patients. Furthermore, these systems can integrate specialized glazing, such as switchable privacy glass or electrochromic glass, which changes tint to offer privacy or reduce glare.
Choosing the mullion and transom curtain wall system requires careful consideration of several factors. Here are some key factors to consider:
Building Design
The design of the building will significantly influence the choice of mullion and transom. For a sleek, modern design, a structural glazed curtain wall with hidden mullions may be appropriate. In traditional designs, visible mullions and transoms may be more suitable. The function of the building will also affect the choice. High-rise buildings will require a curtain wall system to provide structural support and wind load resistance.
Materials
The materials used for the curtain wall will significantly affect its performance, durability, and aesthetics. Aluminum is the most commonly used material due to its lightweight, durability, and resistance to corrosion. Anodized and painted finishes are used to enhance aluminum's aesthetic appeal and durability. Glass is another crucial material, and its type will affect the building's energy efficiency, aesthetics, and acoustics. Low-E glass is preferred for its energy-saving capabilities. Other glass types include insulated, tinted, and reflective glass.
Climate
The local climate should be considered when choosing a mullion and transom curtain wall system. In areas with high winds, a strong curtain wall system capable of withstanding wind pressure will be required. In hot climates, a curtain wall system with solar control glazing to reduce cooling costs will be appropriate. Similarly, in cold climates, a thermally broken aluminum curtain wall with low U-value will minimize heating costs.
Regulations
The local building codes and regulations will significantly influence the choice of mullion and transom curtain wall. These codes will dictate the performance requirements of the curtain wall, such as water tightness, air permeability, and structural integrity. They may also specify the materials that can be used, especially in fire-prone areas where non-combustible materials may be required.
Cost
The initial cost of the mullion and transom curtain wall and its long-term operating costs should be considered. While some systems may have a lower initial cost, they may require more maintenance or have higher operating costs over time. Therefore, it is essential to consider the life cycle cost of the curtain wall system.
Q1: What is the difference between a mullion and a transom?
A1: A mullion is a vertical element that divides and supports the curtain wall's glass panels. In contrast, a transom is a horizontal element that serves a similar purpose. Both structures provide structural integrity and aesthetic framing.
Q2: What is the purpose of a transom?
A2: Transoms are horizontal structural elements that divide large spans of glass in the curtain wall. They provide structural support by transferring loads to the mullions and the glazing above or below. Transoms enhance the rigidity and stability of the glass facade.
Q3: What is a mullion in a curtain wall?
A3: Mullions are vertical framing components in the curtain wall system. They support the metal framework and the glass panels. Mullions distribute loads from the glass to the building's structural frame. They also offer aesthetic division of the glass panels.
Q4: What is a mullion and transom curtain wall?
A4: A mullion and transom curtain wall is a non-load bearing exterior wall system. It consists of a metal frame with vertical (mullions) and horizontal (transoms) structural elements. The frame supports large spans of glass. The system encloses a building and protects it from external weather elements. The curtain wall system is attached to the building's floor.
Q5: What are the types of mullions?
A5: There are three main types of mullions. They include:
浙公网安备 33010002000092号
浙B2-20120091-4