Window and Facade Magazine Middle East Jan-Feb 2019

Volume 1 | Issue 3 January - February 2019

Face to Face Benjamin Piper, Partner, Design Principal, Killa Design

1 WFM | JAN - FEB 2019

CREATIVE CURTAIN WALLS: SYSTEMS & DESIGNS Discussion on the best suitable solutions for the building faรงade requirements and recent changes happening in the faรงade industry.

INDUSTRY SPEAKS Agnes Koltay, Faรงade Consultant & CEO, Koltay Faรงades

System solutions System solutions for every for every

building type building type Sustainable solutions for every building.

Sustainable solutions for every building.architects, specifiers and Together with our network of partners, Togetherinvestors, with ourSchüco network of partners, architects, specifiers and delivers tailored products for newbuilds and renovations, designed to meet individual user needs in all climate zones. investors, Schüco delivers tailored products for newbuilds and renoinvolved is supported a comprehensive range of servations,Everyone designed to meet individualwith user needs in all climate zones. vices at every stage of the construction process. Windows, doors Everyone involved is supported with a comprehensive range of serand façade solutions from Schüco meet the highest requirements in vices atterms everyofstage ofcomfort the construction Windows, reducing doors design, and security, process. whilst simultaneously and façade highest requirements in CO2 solutions from Schüco meet thewww.schueco.ae terms of design, comfort and security, whilst simultaneously reducing CO2 www.schueco.ae 2 WFM | JAN - FEB 2019

PREFACE A Win-Win Situation for Façade Industry in the Middle East The façade industry is one of the most important and fastest growing industries in the Middle East. The industry is expected to grow manifold in the next few years. A report of Grand View Research states that in 2025, the total value of façades projects in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Oman and Bahrain will exceed USD 10.7bn, with an additional USD 10.2bn accounted for windows and doors only.

According to the report, Saudi Arabia tops the list of best-performing markets, with a 6.8 percent CAGR, and façade projects expected to reach a value of USD 5.9bn by 2025. In the UAE, the façades projects, valued USD 2.3bn in 2017, will reach more than USD 3bn over the same period, with a 3.8 per cent CAGR growth, and 33.5 per cent growth in absolute terms.

Dubai is also getting prepared for the Dubai Expo 2020, which will accelerate the growth of urban development projects across the Emirate. The boost in urban development projects will automatically expedite the growth of the façade industry.

It is the best time for the façade companies to grasp the opportunities and grow their business further. The façade companies are bringing new technologies and innovative products in the market to stay ahead of the competition.

So, it is not wrong to say that it is a win-win situation for the façade industry.

In this edition, the cover story discusses various aspects one should look into while choosing façade systems, and the best suitable solutions for the building façade requirements. We have interviewed many well-known names of the industry who share their knowledge and experience on the topic. We are also presenting a few special articles and interviews of the experts from the industry, who have shared their views on the latest technologies, trends and the future opportunities in the façade industry in the Middle East.

Enjoy reading this edition, and we welcome your feedback and suggestions.

Team WFM

1 WFM | JAN - FEB 2019

CONTENTS Effective Curtain Walling For Efficient Buildings

9 19

Ali Khalaf, Managing Partner and Director, Reynaers Middle East WLL Article Courtesy: Reynaers Aluminium / Reynaers Middle East

Façade Fire Safety Objectives, Challenges and Way Forward Aaron McDaid, Principal, Design Confidence, Dubai

Glass Balustrades – Transparent Design: Hidden Problems Andy Dean, Head of Façades, WSP, Middle East

Interview with Agnes Koltay, Façade Consultant & CEO, Koltay Façades

24

FACE TO FACE

Interview with Benjamin Piper, Partner, Design Principal, Killa Design

38

PRODUCT WATCH

41

14

INDUSTRY SPEAKS

COVER STORY- Creative Curtain Walls: Systems & Designs

33

4

BRAND WATCH

42

BUZZ Front Cover Credit: https://www.katarahospitality.com Back Cover Credit: ESC Aluminium Systems Published by: F and F Middle East FZ-LLC

MIDDLE EAST

Co-Founders: Syed Ahad Ahmed Amit Malhotra

Marketing & Operations: Aradhna Kohli me@wfm.co.in

Subscription & Circulation: Lipi Sahai lipi@wfm.co.in

Editorial: Renu Rajaram renu@wfm.co.in

Kapil Girotra kapil@wfm.co.in

Studio Design: Ting Works LLP

DISCLAIMER: With regret we wish to say that publishers cannot be held responsible or liable for error or omission contained in this publication. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek expert advice before acting on any information contained in this publication which are very generic in nature. The Magazine does not accept responsibility for the accuracy of claims made by advertisers. The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced in any form or context without the permission of publishers in writing.

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SOUDAFLEX 41XS

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Curtain Wall Systems Effective Curtain Walling For Efficient Buildings

Ali Khalaf Managing Partner and Director, Reynaers Middle East WLL Article Courtesy: Reynaers Aluminium / Reynaers Middle East

Ali Khalaf is an accomplished strategist with over 20 years of experience, leading a rapidly growing business in the aluminium systems industry within the construction sector. Currently, he is the Managing Partner and Director, Reynaers Middle East WLL - the local subsidiary of the leading European specialist ‘Reynaers Aluminium’ engaged in the development and marketing of innovative and sustainable aluminium solutions for doors and windows, curtain walls, sun screening and others. Ali has in-depth knowledge and expertise of aluminium systems, having previously worked in the same line of business with key players in the industry.

Ali, a mechanical engineering degree holder, is a leading business development expert. He serves and supports Reynaers Middle East in achieving market leadership in the region.

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Curtain wall is a building envelope that intends to support only its own weight and withstand the effects of environmental forces such as wind. It is not intended to assist the structural integrity of the building. There are two main types of curtain walling construction: “stick” and “unitised”.

In stick construction, the curtain wall frame is constructed mainly on site with mullions and transoms supporting glass, spandrel panels, metal panels and brise-soleils, connected piece by piece.

Each mullion is usually supported by the floor or perimeter beams.

In unitised construction, on the other hand, the curtain wall is composed of large units that are assembled in the factory, shipped to the site and erected on the building. Aluminium profiles are used to form the frame, which is normally one storey high.

Opening vents, glazing and infill panels are built into units before being transported to the site. As with stick construction, each unit is usually supported by the floor or perimeter beams.

Key Elements of Curtain Walling Systems Stick curtain walling systems: Stick curtain walling systems are versatile and allow for the integration of other systems, such as sliding doors and windows.

They tend to be less specialised and can be built by all types of fabricators as they are not dependent on having a large factory. However, stick systems do require multiple steps to erect and seal the wall, which means more time is spent on site – an approximate rule of thumb would be that 70% of the work is carried out on site, with 30% in the factory.

This incurs further costs, such as labourers’ time.

Unitised curtain walling systems: For unitised curtain walling, about 30% of the work being done on site, while 70% is carried out in the factory. The complete assembly of the units in the factory brings a number of benefits, which are: • I mproved quality control • Concurrent manufacture and site preparation units can be assembled while the structural frame is being built. The façade can also complete a floor at a time, allowing parallel internal work • Quicker installation, requiring less manpower on site • No need for scaffolding • Can be installed from the interior of the building.

This is ideal for high towers or building sites where there is a tight footprint • Less space is needed on site for layout is the another advantage

©Reynaers

Reynaers Middle East’s (Reynaers Aluminium) project utilising both stick (CW 50 bespoke solution) and unitised curtain wall (CW 86 bespoke solution). Project name: Four Seasons Hotel, Bahrain Bay (opened in 2015), Architect: Skidmore, Owings & Merril LLP

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Boulevard Heights - A Reynaers project utilising the CW 86-MF

Another advantage of unitised systems is that, unlike stick systems, they do not transfer impact noises from floor to floor or horizontally from room to room. This is because the unitised panels are separated by linking gaskets. The different materials (i.e. gasket to aluminium), become acoustically excited to different levels, thus creating a full separation at the junctions between units. The increased use of factory assembly introduces other important considerations, including the following: • T he workshop must be adequately equipped to handle finished elements • Additional transport is required to get finished elements to the site • Additional equipment is required on site for installation of the modules

©Reynaers

Design Considerations Unitised façades offer a number of design options. They can integrate opening elements, such as top-hung and parallel opening windows, both of which can also be motorised for ease of operation. Sun-screening systems, spandrel panels and other infill panels can also be included. Aluminium is typically used for façade frames because of its strength and stability. It is also highly durable, moisture and corrosion-resistant and 100% recyclable.

Mullions in a unitised system tend to be slightly larger, because they use to have an open section, compared to the tube-shaped mullions used in a standard stick system.

There are a number of options for frame finishes, including anodised aluminium and RAL powder coatings.

In terms of glazing, the specification can create different aesthetic effects. These include:

©Reynaers

Render of CW 86-MF (corner section)

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• M odular glazing, which holds the glass using picture-frame-effect glazing beads • Structural sealed glazing, where the glass is structurally bonded, giving a continuous glazed appearance to the façade Various levels of thermal performance are offered, from standard to high insulation options. All variations are thermally broken, but in high thermal insulation options the additional performance can be achieved by inserting fiberglass reinforced polyamide strips in a skeleton structure to create multiple chambers.

©Reynaers

Unitised façades offer a number of design options

Legislation and Testing The recognised industry standard for curtain wall in the UK is the standard for systemised building envelopes (SSBE) from the Centre for Window and Cladding Technology (CWCT). CWCT is an industryfunded information provider and trainer in the field of building envelopes and glazing. It publishes both standards and guidance. SSBE incorporates BS EN 13830:2003 curtain walling, product standard, and other relevant performance standards and building regulations. The CWCT standard covers the performance specification, testing, inspection and assessment of building envelopes constructed from systems of components, which includes: • Curtain walling • Rainscreen cladding • Composite panel systems • Slope glazing •Window walls •Glazing screens The CWCT standards for air, water and wind resistance are based on environmental conditions found typically in the UK. If specifying in other countries with a different climate, modifications must be made for e.g. a variety of standards can be applied in the Middle East including European and American standards depending on the country dynamics and climatic conditions.

Air Permeability The air tightness test measures the volume of air that would pass through a closed window at a certain air pressure. The peak test pressure is determined by the specifier based on one of the classes in BS EN 12152: 2002 curtain walling, air permeability, performance requirements and classification.

The specifier must decide the level of airtightness required for a particular building. A higher test pressure may be specified if a more airtight building is required.

Water Penetration Resistance Water tightness testing involves applying a uniform water spray at an increasing air pressure until water penetrates the window. The peak test pressure is determined by the specifier based on one of the classes in BS EN 12154:2000 curtain walling, water-tightness, performance requirements and classification.

The specifier must decide the level of water resistance of a particular building based on the degree of exposure to the weather. For example, in a coastal location, they may wish to test to a higher peak pressure.

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In terms of glazing, the specification can create different aesthetic effects

©Reynaers

©Reynaers

Air permeability, water penetration resistance and wind resistance tests are performed on curtain walls to ensure effective installation

ŠReynaers

Unitised curtain walling can be installed either from the interior of the building using a beam on the floor above, or from the outside using a crane

Wind Resistance

Conclusion

The wind load resistance is a measure of the profile’s structural strength and is tested by applying increasing levels of air pressure to simulate the wind force. The performance requirements with regards to wind resistance of curtain walling are listed in BS EN 13116:2001 curtain walling, resistance to wind load.

The curtain wall is an integral part of any building exterior. Curtain walls work as a shield to protect the exteriors of the buildings from water, air and it also slows down the process of fire spread, hence it provides a longer life to the building. Curtain wall systems are well equipped to deal with the requirements which enhance the living and working environment of a building.

Due to the many diverse elevational layouts and variations within curtain wall installations, it is not considered practical to structurally classify the large variety of curtain wall systems and purposedesigned constructions.

Installation Unitised curtain walling can be installed either from the interior of the building using a beam on the floor above, or from the outside using a crane. The installation team must be safely connected to the structure via a harness.

The modules are transported to each floor level, lifted to the correct position and installed onto each floor slab. This involves hooking them onto brackets which are secured to the main substrate and levelled using jacking bolts.

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There are several options of curtain walling systems available in the market. To choose the best solutions out of the available options becomes a tricky task sometimes. The selection of the curtains walls totally depends on the requirements of buildings that may vary according to the different weather conditions.

Some projects with specific architectural design need tailored solutions for their façade. Quality curtain walling systems available in the market are robust, thermally efficient and strong and complies with the highest standards in energy efficiency and security.

Fire Safety Façade Fire Safety Objectives, Challenges, and Way Forward

Aaron McDaid, Principal, Design Confidence, Dubai

About the Author: Aaron McDaid is currently working as the Principal in Design Confidence’s Dubai office. As part of the senior leadership team, Aaron brings strong technical skills and enthusiasm to project teams to deliver coordinated solutions. Aaron has a Master’s degree and honours degree in Fire Safety Engineering and has published several scientific papers in the field of fire safety. He has given guest lectures on fire engineering at several universities around the world and is passionate about improving current understanding of fire safety science.

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Yesterday is not ours to recover, but tomorrow is ours to win or lose

– Joel Osteen.

In the last decade or so, rapid urbanisation has been witnessed throughout the world, thereby pushing developers to utilise space efficiently by building increasingly taller towers. 2014 was a landmark year, which saw the completion of 97 skyscrapers (height more than 200 meters) across the world. Buildings are getting taller and being completed at a faster rate than ever before. With buildings going higher, the issue of life safety becomes even more pertinent.

Forms of egress and fire compartmentation are crucial to surviving high-rise fires.

The complete section pertaining to façade and external wall covering system design has been refreshed in the UAE Fire and Life Safety Code of Practice – 2018 with an aim to raise the standard for supplemental materials and reduce the cladding’s combustibility and flame spread.

It is the desire of every architect and engineer to design and build a tower which is distinct among others in terms of design and appearance. New façade and external wall covering system design comes with new fire safety challenges in terms of flame propagation and spread from one storey to another storey of the building. There have been many recent fires witnessed around the world.

External wall cladding and façade system arguably played a supporting role to the flame propagation in all the recent tower fires. These incidents lead us as fire engineers, fire prevention authorities, building designers and product manufacturers to look deeper into the façade and external cladding system design to improve the system design, local legislation, code requirements, materials used, installation methodologies, inspections of an installed system, and maintenance in order to altogether have a better

and fire-safe system. Towards this purpose, the complete section pertaining to façade and external wall covering system design has been refreshed in the UAE Fire and Life Safety Code of Practice - 2018 with an aim to raise the standard for supplemental materials and reduce the cladding’s combustibility and flame spread. This also requires a combination of small-scale and full-scale fire testing to ensure the safest cladding in the world to be used in UAE. Codes and Standards In the Middle East, building codes are largely influenced by American code and standards such as the International Building Code (IBC) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Put simply, a “Code” specifies where a type system is required, where a “Standard” sets out how to design that system. For example, NFPA 5000 building code Specifies Sprinklers in a high-rise building.

The sprinkler system must be designed to NFPA 13 standard for sprinkler design.

In Dubai, the primary building “code” is the UAE Fire Code. This building code is the primary basis for the design of all buildings. This code provides designer detailed design guidelines for where a given system is required and what standard it needs to be designed for. For smoke control systems, the UAE Fire Code requires systems to be designed standards such as NFPA 92.

Fire Safety for Different Building Heights Firefighting strategies vary for different building heights. Typically for low- and mid-rise buildings, external building fire-fighting can be accomplished.

However, when the building heights increase, so do the challenges. It is generally considered, and widely understood that typically internal fire-fighting takes place in or around 23m due to ladder restrictions of high reach fire trucks. This is further emphasised in the UAE Fire Code in regard to emergency fire vehicle access.

Left: The transition from external to internal firefighting, Right: UAE Fire Code high-rise EVA requirements

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Package of fire protection measures

Fire Safety Principles for Typical Modern Building Building codes typically cover a vast array of different requirements related to buildings. However, fire safety principles largely remain the same internationally given the nature of fire dynamics, these can be distilled into the following key points:

• A single fire incident is considered at any one time (design assumption) • Acts of arson not considered i.e. multiple ignition sources (design assumption) • Design should contain the fire within the room of origin (design criteria) • Design should typically provide two routes to escape in most circumstances (design criteria) • The distance should be limited to travel distance to a safe area (design criteria) • A single fire scenario should not block multiple escape routes (guiding principle)

Typically, a building fire strategy will include a wide number of fire protection measures as part of the standard building measures. These are illustrated as follows: Façade Fire Safety Objectives Of the key fire safety principle mentioned above, similar principles of fire safety can be considered for the external building envelope as follows:

• O bjective 1 - The design should prevent external fire spread to other buildings • Objective 2 - The design should prevent internal fire spread within the building • Objective 3 - The design should prevent external fire spread from outside building • Objective 4 - The design should protect escape routes

The façade fire safety objectives mentioned above are part of the overall fire safety objective of the building. While the building fire safety objective focuses on both fire suppression and compartmentation, the façade fire objective focuses on limiting the spread of fire from one building to another, one floor to another, etc. For an effective building fire safety, all the packages of protection shall go hand in hand. If not contained in the compartment, fire escalates horizontally on the floors and, vertically via the vertical openings, communicating spaces, façades, and external wall coverings.

In case of a curtain wall system, the floor-tofloor fire spread has been worked by many fire engineers and researchers in the past. From a fire dynamics perspective, we know that flames emitting from an external window can extend higher than 5 meters above the top of windows. Analysis of fire compartment experiments (Thomas and Heselden, 1972) helped to more fully understand the physical phenomenon of ventilation-controlled fire.

Ventilation-controlled fire represents the scenario where a fire burning in a building breaks the window glazing, permitting hot gases to flow out the top portion of the opening. A portion of the hot gases is unable to burn inside the room due to limited air (ventilation-controlled) but, upon movement to the exterior, encounter sufficient air entrainment, allowing the hot fuel gases to burn outside the building. The result is a flame projecting out and upward from the window. The exterior building detailing, articulations incorporated as elements of façade and structural floor plate changes can all impact the flame propagation and associated corrective and radiant heat exposure to the façade.

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Apart from the floor-to-floor flame spread, there is fire spread within the façade system as well via. combustible components (e.g. insulation), the ventilated air cavity located behind the cladding, the risk can be reduced by using, non-combustible or low-combustible elements.

The latest edition of UAE Fire and Life Safety Code of practice has made required and effective revisions pertaining to façade and external wall covering system such as Bituminous material not permitted on primary substrate, improved clarity in the façade related sections, also detailed roles and responsibility and stringent testing and certification requirements have been introduced. Requirements having to do with a cavity fire barrier, thermal barrier, openings (windows, doors, ventilation) flashing, openings on exterior walls, and perimeter fire barrier have detailed and improved. Core tests, the panel as product tests, and wall assembly tests have also been introduced. Core and panel to be tested against EN 13501-1 and ASTM D1929, and full-scale wall assembly to be tested against BS 8414-1 or 2 or NFPA 285 or FM 4881 or ISO 13785-2.

Floor to floor flame propagation through façades and external wall coverings has led to some devastating results in the past in the UAE and around the world. The risk of super high-rise building required consideration of several factors that include engineering design of the sprinkler system, fire department response capabilities, the occupancies, associated fire loads, building evacuation approach, and compartmentation features. With the appropriate evaluation of risk and associated factors, a correct façade and external wall coverings can be chosen.

Being at the forefront of super high-rise building design and development, UAE has revised its codes, standards, testing requirements, inspections and certifications to reduce such incidents in the future and hence, making our future safe here in the United Arab Emirates.

In order to define a successful faced fire strategy, we must first define an unsuccessful strategy or an unfavourable outcome.

From the unfavourable condition, it is possible to work back and design the façade to mitigate any potential fire spread path.

Façade fire safety objective 1

Façade Fire Safety Objective 1 The designer can address the potential external fire spread challenges to other buildings by either creating remoteness between buildings to avoid radiation or products of combustion and burning debris impacting adjacent buildings or by fire rating external walls near to adjacent buildings. The latter typically becoming cost prohibitive.

Façade Fire Safety Objective 2 The designer can address the potential internal fire spread challenges by establishing appropriate internal fire stopping protection to prevent fire and smoke spread from the room of fire origin to other parts of the building. The designer must also establish appropriate cavity barrier protection.

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Façade fire safety objective 2

Façade Fire Safety Objective 3 The designer can address the potential external fire spread challenges by establishing safeguards such as sprinkler protection, spandrels and appropriate façade specification.

Façade fire safety objective 3

Façade fire safety objective 4 (building discharge)

A further example of protecting escape routes includes firefighter lift lobby arrangement which allows firefighters the ability to set up a staging point within the firefighting lobby while the building occupant evacuates through the stairs.

The additional provision of smoke clearance within the corridors provides additional protection to the occupants within the early stages of fire development.

Conclusion In conclusion, façade fire strategy can be defined by four key objectives. Where these objectives are achieved the strategy can be considered successful. Failure to consider the façade fire safety objectives can result in an unsuccessful façade fire strategy. It is the responsibility of all stakeholders from the design to the operation, over the life cycle of the building to ensure the strategy is successful.

Façade Fire Safety Objective 4 The designer can address the potential risk to escape routes by ensuring the building architecture is in compliance with the fire code in regard to escape distances, number of routes and discharge.

In particular, reference can be made to a simple exit discharge arrangement for a high-rise tower to illustrate appropriate discharge.

Fire-fighter lift lobby arrangement

Corridor smoke control system

©Image Courtesy- Design Confidence

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Balustrades Glass Balustrades – Transparent Design: Hidden Problems

Andy Dean, Head of Façades, WSP, Middle East

About the Author: Andy Dean has over 30 years of experience in the building and construction sector, ranging from structural testing within the nuclear industry to fire testing and certification. Having established the Dubai Façade Technology Centre and Laboratory in 1997, and operated it for 10 years, he has deep knowledge of heavy structure testing and weathertightness testing of façades and building envelope systems and business life in the Middle East. Andy is also a Fellow of the Chartered Institution of Building and the Society of Façade Engineering (SFE) and has held chair positions in these and other organisations locally. As a façade consultant, he continues to provide input into the GCC codes and is a regular speaker in many technical conferences.

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Balustrades are all around us, and thankfully so in most cases. They are so ubiquitous that we take them for granted. They are present even in the simplest buildings and have been there for centuries. Think of an old-fashioned balustrade, and you will probably think of an old stone type, with the curved, and ornate baluster posts. Three aspects of these old designs are immediately apparent – they provided protection, they provided a view, and they were elegant. (The word baluster comes from the Greek balaustion meaning ‘wild-pomegranate flower’).

In modernity, this type of balustrade has frequently been replaced by one incorporating glass – all adequately providing the same function. But beware, for an element so common, their designs are surprisingly frequently inadequate – particularly in terms of their end functions. Arguably the simplicity and familiarity are the reasons for the mistakes made. So, let’s break this down – firstly by function, and then by components – hopefully revealing some of these overlooked issues along the way.

Function Aesthetics are important, but in the case of a balustrade, the functions are more important.

Balustrades are only installed if there is a functional reason for them to be present. Functional failure of a balustrade can be catastrophic and can even result in multiple fatalities.

The principle function of a balustrade is to provide protection from a hazard, most frequently from a fall. However, there is also separation – the subtle difference being that one of the purposes of the balustrade may be to guide rather than to protect – perhaps in a queue or directionally on a stair.

It may be important for a balustrade to allow ventilation, or conversely act as a wind break or a shield. Its purpose may be to provide privacy, or alternatively a view. And of course, its aesthetics must reflect the context of the building. Glass in balustrades, usually when combined with other elements, provides an excellent (if not unique) material to meet all the desired criteria.

There are some important particular characteristics that ensure the typical minimum protection performance. The most obvious is height – most commonly this is 1.1m from FFL (finished floor level) but higher in some jurisdictions. (It is also worth noting that the sill of a window becomes a balustrade, when the window is fully-opened.)

Generally, openings in the balustrade should not be such that a 100mm diameter sphere would pass through them (a dimension that is related to the size of an infant’s head). It should not be readily climbable – a barrier that is also a ladder

provides little protection where the young or (mis) adventurous are present. The practical combination of the non-climbability rule with the height rule is often overlooked. The regulated height may have to start from a climbable feature, which means the actual height is much higher.

UAE Fire and Life Safety Code of Practice – Balustrade requirements gaps more than 100 mm not acceptable

X = 1200 mm not acceptable

stepping feature within 760mm from finished floor level not acceptable

A> 1200 mm ACCEPTABLE

finished floor level

gap more than 100 mm NOT ACCEPTABLE (E)

Figure 1.16.b.: Balcony Railing Specifications

Naturally, the balustrade should be able to resist the required load, usually the people-load and the wind-load. These can vary depending on the application, and both codes and standards provide clear guidance on these (BS and ANSI are good examples). The most common mistake here is that the appropriate safety factors are either not applied, or applied improperly for the appropriate load type.

Other frequently-missed loading-related aspects include post-breakage safety and capacity, fixing methods, stress concentrations, handrails, and the thermal environment; but now we are getting into the realm of how the components behave, so let’s look at those.

Components The most significant component of a glass balustrade is, not surprisingly, the glass. The glass can be a panel within the system or the whole balustrade.

Glass selection in any aspect of construction is more complex than it appears. Glass has numerous characteristics, and modifying one of those often has an effect on another, including cost. As such, choosing the appropriate glass is an optimisation process.

For the glass used in balustrades, three characteristics are considered to simplify the selection, which includes – safety glazing, post-breakage safety and (in the Middle East in particular) the solar / thermal environment.

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©WSP ©WSP

Infill panel (supported by posts)

Full panel (self-supported)

Our next components are posts, rails, brackets and fixings. These may be the principle structural elements, such that the glass is only an infill panel, or there may be a structural collaboration between these and the glass. In glass terms, though, the stresses within the glass at the points of connection to the fixings, based on the fixing arrangement, are often the critical aspect.

Speaking of stresses, turning our attention to the base channel, we find two issues that we should vigilantly watch out for.

The first is the differences between calculation and reality. Many calculations assume a uniformly distributed load, indicating that the base channel captures the glass evenly along its length. The associated stress profile may look like this.

The stress pattern on an evenly supported panel (UDL)

©WSP

Annealed glass and heat-strengthened glass, in their monolithic form, are not ‘safety glasses’. The former (annealed) is susceptible to the thermal cracking in the Middle East in any case. Fully tempered (FT) glass is a safety glass, but if it shatters - it offers no post-breakage capacity. It is also susceptible to spontaneous breakage from Nickel Sulphide (NiS) inclusions, and minor damage often results in the whole pane shattering. For these and a few other reasons, laminated glass is essential – at least two layers of glass bonded to a plastic interlayer (which is usually a soft and flexible PVB but can be provided in a harder, less flexible ‘structural’ form).

This offers some post-breakage safety in the event of one pane breaking. FT glass, although the strongest kind of commonly-available architectural glass, loses all its structural integrity on breaking (in addition to its NiS issue). Consequently, where loads allow, we tend to use heat-strengthened laminated glass as our configuration of choice in the Middle East. Where a higher design load necessitates the use of FT glass, a structural interlayer can be used, providing post-breakage support. However, this still does not fully alleviate the NiS problem. Once everything is in place and considered, a common (perhaps conveniently) overlooked issue is to consider an environment of 50°C when evaluating the structural performance. The various plastic interlayers available behave quite differently at that temperature, compared to the more frequently used 20°C.

Magnification: 1.00 Time: 1.00000(s) Lf:

Capped glass balustrade, also with handrail

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1.000 Packages: 1 Layers: 1 deform. w

Glass deflection check: Since actual deflection of 17.05mm < 1245mm/65= 19.15mm or 25mm allowable, thus PASS!

The reality may be that the glass is actually fixed in particular locations with wedges, packers, or bolts.

Consequently, the actual stress pattern may look much less even, with hot-spots that hadn’t been predicted in the calculation.

This can be a function of improper workmanship on site, where the designers have intended an installation in one way and the site team has built it in another way, incorrectly packed and adjusted it, or just installed it ‘how they have done it before’.

The second watch point is related to the first and is highlighted in BS 6180.

BRITISH STANDARD

BS 6180:2011

Figure B.2 Typical clamping systems for free-standing toughened glass balustrades (continued)

C) Alternative clamping system Key 1 Glass 2 High modulus sealant 3 Hardwood, extruded silicone S/H 850 or epoxy polysulphide compound 4 Setting block 5 Continuous 12mm thick angles

The figures extracted from the standard show highmodulus sealant used (2) with non-continuous packers (3) and inserted at particular locations for alignment. The combination provides an effective distribution of stress along the base. What often happens is a (less expensive) low-modulus weatherseal is used – the consequence being that the stresses are transferred more locally into the packers, causing point loads not anticipated by the designers and not represented in the calculation.

An alternative may be to use grout, which sets to provide an even contact with the glass, and then a weatherseal can be used to cap it off. This may not be possible if the balustrade is not horizontal.

Our final component of note is the handrail, and there are as many questions as there are configurations.

• Does it contribute to the structure (has that been modelled)?

• How is it connected to the glass and how does the load, therefore transfer (stresses at the connection points)?

• How many panels is it connected to (it should be more than one – preferably at least three)?

• Is it protecting you from the glass, or the glass from you (possibly both)?

• What is the location of the handrail (inside, on the top)?

• What shape is it (if it is flat does it encourages a cup, phone or ashtray to be left on it – until of course that item is knocked off)?

• Is it bare metal located outside (if so, it may reach skin-burning temperatures in the summer – an aspect that may be lessened if the metal is coated)?

• Is it capped?

Solar-degraded interlayer –1 year-old (there is a misalignment)

d) Alternative clamping system Key

Excerpt from BS6180:2011 – noting the use of high-modulus (stiff) sealant

©WSP

1 Glass 2 High modulus sealant 3H ardwood, extruded silicone S/H 850 or epoxy polysulphide compound 4 Setting block 5 Continuous 12mm thick plates

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The ‘capped’ question was kept to last because it has several factors. Architects often favour balustrades with no features at all – and understandably so – the elegance of the unobstructed view. However, this is not without its problems. Some interlayers, when left exposed, absorb water or crack or delaminate or are just difficult to clean.

The exposed edges of adjacent uncapped glass panels are virtually impossible to consistently align acceptably, and even where they are aligned, the upper corners can form a sharp edge.

Over time, chips and shells are common, creating even sharper edges, and are made more likely to occur because of the misalignment and exposure. This obviously presents a potential cutting hazard to a hand.

This is exacerbated when the top edge of the glass is not horizontal, such as on a stair. One corner of the glass will be an acute angle, creating a piercing point, or a chance of catching clothing – potentially throwing the descending person off balance.

©WSP

Capping the glass with a simple, small channel can alleviate most of these issues, and can even enhance the aesthetic – particularly over the long term. It may even create a greater level of comfort, a feeling that there is no railing or balustrade can be quite disconcerting for many people.

Delamination in glass – 2 years old installation

It is clear that in spite of centuries of design and installation, there is still too much evidence of incorrect design and poor installation. The information offered above may not cover every event or condition, but knowing to look for the issues will hopefully take us a long way towards an installation that will be durable and practical, and most importantly provide its safety function in every case.

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©WSP

©WSP

Capped glass on stairs to protect from the piercing / snagging hazard caused by the acute angle

INDUSTRY SPEAKS “Innovation Needs an Opportunity”

Agnes Koltay Façade Consultant & CEO, Koltay Façades

Agnes Koltay holds a Masters in Architecture (Hungary, USA) and also a Masters in Façade Engineering (UK). She has worked with award-winning architects, such as Zaha Hadid Architects in London; and in international engineering offices, before starting her own façade engineering consultancy, Koltay Façades, in 2011 in Dubai. Koltay Façades is well-known for their capability to work on large scale developments, high-rise projects, and complex geometry buildings. Agnes has been based in Dubai, UAE since 2005, and worked on numerous iconic projects. Agnes was ranked 91st on the 2013 Construction Week Top 100 in the Middle-East. In 2018, she was awarded the Big Projects 2018 “Woman of the Year” and Koltay Façades was awarded the Middle East Consultant Specialist Consultancy Company Award.

She delivered over 20 conference speeches all over the world in the past 5 years and regularly teaches sessions at universities. Agnes is chairing the jury for the 2019 CTBUH Façades Awards in China.

Agnes Koltay, in an exclusive interview with Window & Façade Magazine, shares her views about the latest innovations in façade design. Excerpts…

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Could you please brief our readers on the history and objective behind the formation of your company?

I have been attracted to high-rise buildings since about age eight when my father brought home an issue of National Geographic Magazine with amazing fold-out page photos of famous American skyscrapers. During my architectural studies, I oriented more towards actual technical solutions, and façade engineering is the best discipline to interlace conceptual architectural aesthetics with hardcore technicality. I was not particularly dreaming of my own consultancy business, I was enjoying projects while working with multidisciplinary engineering firms. At the time when I arrived in the UAE in 2005, the speed and magnitude of construction and the level of progress kept me excited. I worked on Festival City towers, various Sheikh Zayed Road buildings, towers in Marina and so on, and over the years I had to take a growing part in management. Until one day in 2010, I went for a three-week vacation to Yemen, a country with beautiful nature and very unique traditional architecture - but no data signal. Not receiving 80+ corporate emails a day on my Blackberry gave me time to think and consider future directions. One thing I found, was the longing to fully dedicate myself and the team to façade engineering, and shape our ways to suit the best to this particular discipline. In large companies, it naturally happens that smaller disciplines enjoy lesser attention within the organisation. I envisaged a small boutique firm, which is dedicated to bringing value to engineering projects via technical expertise, innovation and passion. I wanted to select the projects we work on. Being an architect, I understand the language and appreciate good design. And if you really want something, the best way is to do it! I tendered my resignation upon my return from Yemen. After an additional three and a half months break with intense travel, Koltay Façades got registered in Dubai, the city that I feel is my home.

Could you please tell us about a few of your latest prestigious projects and the innovations you made?

We basically have three distinctive categories of work: full envelope design for large developments of high-rise towers or other megaprojects, complex freeform geometry buildings and structural glass structures. The later one is very engineering demanding specialty, but gives the largest freedom and opportunity to innovate and develop unprecedented solutions. We work closely with the research teams of a number of major suppliers, who are keen to get involved in new ideas. Freeform geometry is something we gained a reputation for,

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through projects like “Opus” or “Museum of the Future”, and many others. While parametric design tools are widely available in an architectural software range translating it to mass production during manufacturing has been a missing chain piece.

Recently, more and more fabricators have adopted fully computer instructed manufacturing methods, where using 1 file for 100 panels does not cost less than using 100 different files to machine 100 panels.

This is revolutionising the industry and we are ahead of it connecting architectural concepts to current edge technology. And for the first category, we work on remarkable iconic buildings like four towers over the large podium at Fountainviews, Sky View and its newest tourist attraction observation areas. We have handed over Burj Vista earlier last year. We are working on two tall hotel projects in Marina: Jumeirah Gate and Meydan Beach Hotel, also on several buildings in Business Bay. We started our Singapore office 2 years ago and are growing there: we have just finished the design phases of 14 buildings for a university campus in Singapore, as well as a highrise hotel tower in Vietnam. In 2018, we worked on several European projects too, including the tallest building in Hungary by Foster and Partners.

The Opus, Business Bay, Dubai - Two 20 story towers connected by a bridge, with the inner façades forming a seamless fluid glass surface, resembling melted ice.

Undoubtedly one of the most challenging projects in the region, Koltay Façades was using advanced 3D computing technology and building on their earlier experience and research work in freeform glazing methods to deliver this project

What are your views about BIM technology?

Are there any challenges faced in using the BIM Technology? What other software innovations do you foresee to impact the profession?

It has been a slow process in the industry, for both architects and engineers, towards fully utilising the unique capabilities of BIM, and to wait until BIM platforms are developed to a level where it eases our work. At the current stage, BIM offers opportunities that were unheard of at 2D ages. At first, improvement of structures - MEP coordination was targeted and achieved. Then it is used to provide a useful information framework for facility managers and enable smart building solutions. We look forward to future stages of BIM development, where faรงade specific aspects can get the focus. Currently, for preaward design stage, we still find geometry specific parametric scripting methods more powerful when it comes to automatisation or analysis, and still find non-model based software cater more to detail

Dubai Design District - Project completed in 2015, after only 14 months. Koltay Faรงades delivered Design and Built faรงade specifications and construction stage supervision. The project consists of 11 buildings with heights varying 5 - 12 floors

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drawing needs. However, we rely heavily on BIM for input information and we cooperate intensely at early phases for a correct and strong foundation of the envelope design in the BIM platform. BIM-based documentation aids faรงade contractors well with ease of keeping track of quantities. Another interesting area of software development is virtual reality and augmented reality applications of the BIM model, with an extremely wide range of potential use, ranging from marketing purposes to actual site inspections, where the inspector can overlay the approved design with reality on site. And talking about our cyber future, we are also hopeful and excited about drone technology and its possible applications in external faรงade inspections, both during construction and during regular maintenance cycles, subject to development of specific and adaptable smart scanning systems.

Burj Vista Towers, Downtown Dubai - Koltay Façades involvement was from schematic design stage throughout the construction stage for both façade engineering and façade access; a project running from 2013 to 2018

Downtown Dubai is full of Koltay Façades projects, The Address Boulevard Hotel - 72 floors & 370 meters tall, is another one. The façade is fully unitized curtain wall system and the hotel also features large revolving doors of 4.5m diameter and 6m in height

What are the several parameters to keep in mind while designing an innovative façade?

Innovation needs an opportunity. We need to adopt a very open-minded, out-of-the-box general approach to notice or find these opportunities - and the developer has to be on board for it. It does not necessarily mean extra budget or extended design phase, it just means a bit of risk-taking when trying something that has not been tried many times before. We have a good mental library of new international approaches, trends, materials, systems, etc., collected from conferences, companies, research labs, and our own work, waiting for the right project opportunity. However, not every building needs innovation or offers the opportunity of innovation, and this should be clarified at the beginning before any design has been proposed. A clear brief and mutual understanding, and alignment of client interest with design direction are critical for the success of any project. Good architecture and good engineering is not defined by its level of innovation or fanciness, but rather whether it is meeting the client’s aim in an optimal way.

What are the changes you see in façade designing over the years?

We have seen designs departing from strictly uniform, repetitive units towards unique shaped elements. We also have noticed a varied level awareness of the life cycle maintenance cost and value of reputation cost.

Certain aspects cannot be rectified later, for example, the sound insulation properties of fixed glazed façades cannot be improved without replacing the glazing with thicker insulated glazing units. Other aspects may only be improved at a larger cost, for example rectifying careless installation of waterproofing. It is easier to get these things correct during construction than to deal with the potential ongoing maintenance and reputation loss later.

How easy or quick was the rendering process of the final façade design vis-a-vis a decade back?

While software products helped speed up the documentation phase, client and industry expectations equally increased with them, both in terms of the expected level and amount of documentation, and shorter design programme times. The change is gradual. So maybe the difference is not as big within a decade as within say the past 30 years. The challenge here is definitely the shorter design programmes, as a large part of our work is a mental process, which is sequential, and includes trying multiple options and directions to find the optimum design. This cannot be speeded up to a large degree as we are still humans, so the design may suffer from unrealistic programme durations. As Warren Buffett said, “You cannot produce a baby in a month by getting nine women pregnant”.

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What were the biggest milestones for 2018?

It has been a very eventful year and definitely the year of wider international focus. After starting our Singapore office in late 2016, it is growing now and in August this year, we moved into a large permanent office in Suntec City. We also work on several projects in Europe now. Our Azerbaijan projects are intense on the site and we travel frequently to oversee it. We spoke, chaired and contributed at several conferences in the UAE, Singapore, Germany, UK, Belgium, Italy, Vietnam and Indonesia. We have got ISO certification this year, as we are not that small anymore. We also got awarded as the “Specialist Consultancy Company of the Year”, and I was honoured to receive the award of “Woman of the Year” in the field of construction. I was also invited by CTBUH to chair the jury for their newly introduced Façade Engineering Award. And, of course, many great achievements of projects, including the successful handover of the iconic Burj Vista towers in July 2018.

Vida Residences, Dubai - Image is taken from the nearby construction site of Imperial Avenue (190m tall) featuring the 58-floor tall Vida Residences. For both projects, Koltay Façades has provided façade engineering and façade access consultancy from the early design stages to construction stage

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Where do you see your company in 2020?

We are a true Dubai born company and we hope to continue supporting UAE projects as our core business. However, we are responding to demand from abroad, and setting foot in other continents.

Our growth is only limited by the speed of finding talented colleagues, as our work can only be as good as our people. We are proud to have very high levels of internal communication and understanding, a really good and strong team, with real teamwork, even between our international offices. We are also very diverse with 18 different nationalities of 32 employees. I am really happy to come to work with my colleagues every day.

What do you see as the main challenges faced by your industry?

Façade engineering is a relatively new discipline compared with architecture or structural engineering, hence not as well defined. Expectations of our scope, the minimum level of deliverables, limits of involvement, and the related level of remuneration may range widely depending on the previous experience of the requesting party. ©All the photos are taken by Agnes Koltay, Koltay Façades The two towers of Sky View - 54 and 60 floors, are connected by a 3 storey steel sky bridge which has an infinity pool at the top. Koltay Façades are currently overseeing the construction, but they have been involved since the early design stages

Cover Story Creative Curtain Walls: Systems & Designs Façade is one of the most crucial parts of a building and adds a visual outlook as an effect on the entire building’s design. A building façade has many layers to protect the exterior of the building, providing it sustainability, at the same time it’s identity. Façades should be aesthetically pleasing and its exclusivity is the requirement of the present era. Curtain wall and cladding are the integral part of a façade system. With the right choice of façade, by keeping in mind the materials’ durability, sustainability, compatibility and suitability, safety and availability, the look and lifespan of the entire building can be transformed. The right material gives a perfect façade.

For this cover story, we interviewed a few top names from the Middle-East’s façade industry to help our readers in choosing the best suitable solutions for their building façade requirements. The experts have also shared their views on the recent changes happening in the façade industry and their expectations for the coming years. So, here are some tips for picking the right façade materials and systems:

©Marwa Mohamed Photography, Dubai

Damac Paramount, UAE Schüco provided ASS 50, lift and slide & bespoke Male and Female unitized curtain wall system

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Parameters to be Considered While Deciding Type of Façades

Alastair Common, Technical Manager, Schüco Middle East Windows & Façade Systems LLC

Firstly, façade of a building depends on the design intent of the architect, which is often simply narrowed down to either an external capping or SG (structural glazing) joint between the glasses. Then, of course, we must understand key factors such as the structure, building movement, thermal, acoustics and performance specification requirements. With this information, we can decide on the most suitable types of façade to take into consideration, says Alastair Common, Technical Manager, Schüco Middle East Windows & Façade Systems LLC. According to him, the other main factor would be the geometry of the building; often, we see buildings with a unique design and complex geometries. This must also be taken into consideration during the planning and implementation of the types of the façades.

Nikolas Mykoniatis, Operations Manager, ESC Aluminium Systems, explains that the key parameters deciding the type of façade are the specifications that are received from the consultant, the design of the façade, the height of the building, and the budget of the project.

Nikolas Mykoniatis, Operations Manager, ESC Aluminium Systems

Eng. Jafar Haddadin, Commercial Manager, Vistawall International

Jafar Haddadin, Commercial Manager, Vistawall International, believes that the façade is the first thing that draws anyone’s attention on a building.

The first impression does matter, as it affects and highly influences the overall image of the building. Along with the architectural aesthetics and its local planning environment that might affect the building appearance, it is important to consider the interior function and the scale of the building in selecting the right type of façade in order to achieve specific energy efficiency and thermal comfort. one of the most important factors in selecting the type of façade is the financial investment in the project. Unfortunately, most of the stakeholders’ concern is the initial cost or the investment, which might be lower, but the maintenance cost and energy efficiency of the façade may afterward be significantly high.

Eye catching façade design that influence the overall image of the building - Spimaco Tower - Riyadh

There are several parameters that should be considered while designing a curtain wall system for a building, observes Common, which include architectural intent of the façade, wind pressure, and project specifications. Previous experience is crucial. Knowing which system to design, or not to design, is often based on previous experience. Testing is equally important. Implementing tried and tested systems will obviously help to ensure durability and sustainability. Engineering is Important to ensure that what is being designed is safe and fit for purpose. If a façade is not correctly engineered, then durability and sustainability will clearly be jeopardised.

Mykoniatis opines that when we start to design a new façade system for a building, we need to consider some basic factors. Some of them are the repeated variable wind loads and climatic conditions. These factors affect the longterm structural and infiltration performances of a façade.

©Vistawall International

Parameters for Designing a Curtain Wall System for a Building

Haddadin believes that before designing a curtain wall system, there is a need to understand the three main functions of the curtain wall. The functions include weather barrier to prevent air infiltration and water penetration, building insulation (exterior to interior and between floors) against fire and smoke, thermal and acoustic, and the third one is light transmittance to the interior space.

Haddadin also mentions that along with these functions, we need to consider the physical loads imposed on the curtain wall such as wind loads, seismic and blast loads to ensure the durability and sustainability of the curtain wall. Other key factors that need to be considered when it comes to designing a curtain wall are the fabrication simplicity, the installation scheme, and the subsequent maintenance. Workmanship can enhance the performance of the curtain wall.

Criteria to Select Between Stick and Unitised Systems In Common’s opinion, a stick curtain wall system is ideal where the building movement requirements are less stringent and would be appropriated for low to mid-rise projects. With stick systems, you also have considerably more work to do on site, all the materials must be installed as individual pieces (mullions, transoms, spandrels, glass etc.), not to mention that external access is a must, whether it be via scaffolding, cradles, mast climbers etc. Whereas, unitised systems are more commonly implemented on high rise towers where there will be higher levels of building movement. Unitised is also more suitable when the geometry is more regular and repetitive for panel optimisation. Furthermore, the unitised

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panels must be preassembled in the factory and delivered to site. The panels can then be installed from inside the building in order to eliminate the need for external access.

Some basic criteria to select between stick and unitised system are the time (regarding the installation) and the height of the structure. Usually, stick systems takes 3-times more installation time than a unitised. Unitised system is well suited for cases where there is a requirement for large volume of prefabricated panels. The unitised system is composed of large glass units that are created and glazed within a factory and then sent to construction.

It is more apt in the case of higher labour costs (thereby shifting the labour to a more cost-effective factory workforce), and where higher performance is needed (for wind loads, air permeability etc.) i.e., for taller structures, says Mykoniatis. If your project doesn’t suit the criteria for a unitised system, your other option is to use a stick system. Most low-rise structure buildings use stick curtain walls.

©ESC Aluminium Systems

According to Nikolas Mykoniatis, to ensure the sustainability of a curtain wall, we need to know a few basic rules: • Aluminium extrusion must use alloy 6063 to BS EN 755–1 (60 years).

• For coating, we can have the following options - Anodising to BS 3987, minimum 25 microns thick, 30 years or more of service life.

- Polyester powder coating to BS 6496, minimum 40 microns thick, 5-25 years of service life - Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF or PVF2) minimum 25 microns thick, 20 years or more of service life.

• The glass has an expected service life well in excess of 60 years.

• Gaskets and sealants are often the shortest-life components. Non-cellular EPDM gaskets to BS 4255 have an expected service life 15 to 30 years or more. Sealants should comply with ISO 11600, with evidence from manufacturers for durability.

• A neutral cure type silicone sealant has an expected service life of 5-20 years.

Armada Tower - Dubai

Haddadin too agrees that for low-rise buildings or buildings with small areas of installation where external access is easy, the stick curtain wall will be more cost effective as it will lower the shipping cost and have minimal pre-fabrication, besides the lower material cost because of using fewer components.

However, the long duration in the installation progress needs to be considered as well.

Aspects like high-quality pre-fabricated panels, the installation speed, and the ability to design the system to be installed without using the main crane are all advantages of a unitised system.

Aluminium - As an Efficient Curtain Wall Material

Selection of Cladding Material

The early curtain walls were made with steel frames. Steel, however, is 3-times heavier than the aluminium, and is far less flexible when it comes to designing. Aluminium, on the other hand, is an extremely flexible material due to the fact that it is lightweight, it can be easily extruded to almost any shape depending on the required design. The design complexity in the shapes of Aluminium profiles and its function is nearly unlimited. In regard to the finishes, almost any colour with different interesting types of finishes can be applied to aluminium, not to mention that it is a non-corrosive material by nature. Hence, aluminium is by far the most suitable material for curtain wall systems, and will remain to be so for many years to come, mentions Common.

According to Mykoniatis, the criteria for selection of cladding material is based on the design of the façade. Nowadays all the cladding material has high specs and the only limit is the imagination of the architect, he adds.

Unitised curtain wall is more likely to be used in continuous and wide installation areas - W-Hotel - Doha

©ESC Aluminium Systems

Haddadin says, “With the price advantage and the design flexibility, aluminium is considered as one of the most preferred materials to be used in the curtain wall. Its lightweight and availability will reduce the overall cost of the building”. As a corrosion resistant, durable and recyclable material, aluminium wins over other materials. Moreover, it is easy to apply and a variety of finishes, types and colours, makes the aluminium a leading curtain wall material.

In addition to architectural aesthetics, building design, regulatory requirements, and all the other technical factors, it is important to consider a cost-effective material and its availability (for both the material itself and for skilled and experienced installers). Moreover, the durability of the system, it’s compatibility with other cladding systems used in the same building and their maintenance requirements are also important factors to be considered in the design stage, explains Haddadin.

Royal Rose- Dubai

©Vistawall International

Factors Escalating the Performance of Façades In Common’s view, the curtain wall has to be carefully studied during the design stage to take into consideration all of the performance criteria such as air and water tightness. The system must be designed to ensure that there is effective pressure equalisation and weatherproofing of the system.

The façade must be Wind resistant and must be structurally sound which could be determined via calculations. While for the thermal and acoustic requirements, the combination of aluminium, glass, insulation, and other materials within the curtain wall must all be calculated together. All of the mentioned points can then be verified via thorough performance mock up testing to ensure that the curtain wall is fit for purpose.

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©https://www.kfshrc.edu.sa/en/home

the slimmest system available with mullions and transoms only 35mm in face width. Also, another system with integrated/concealed vent within the system, in which any vent framing is not seen at the internal part, just only the line of mullion and transom are visible”, says Common.

According to Mykoniatis, solar technology for façade and glass systems are the latest technologies that all system suppliers are required to focus on. We must have “green” buildings, and we should be using thermal break profiles in order to “save” energy.

Mykoniatis highlights few factors, which are needed to achieve good performance for a façade system.

The factors include: designing of an efficient profile, correct water drainage system in order to achieve a good water penetration performance, efficient gaskets, and well-designed connector (connection between the column and the transom). He believes that the correct combination of these factors can provide better performance.

For Haddadin, high performance in the construction sector is determined by the energy efficiency during the operational stage. It depends on all the stages from design until the execution. The first step in the design stage is to understand the type of the building and it is functioning. The designer needs to study the building energy profile and determine the wall-to-window ratio while integrating the right sun shading devices if needed. Also, choosing the right material and façade system and all its components will have a great impact on the façade performance.

Haddadin adds that nowadays, most of the projects have a commissioning stage to safeguard its workmanship, durability and all the other environmental required performance.

New technologies can be considered to enhance the performance of the building envelope, like the self-cleaning system, which reduces the operation and maintenance cost, and the night time natural ventilation system, which is applicable in the double skin façade, which can reduce the cooling loads of the building in the hot climate regions.

Latest Technologies in Curtain Wall Systems Common noted that the trend is often to see less aluminium. “In recent years, we at Schüco, have developed and introduced into the market

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©https://www.katarahospitality.com/

King Faisal specialist hospital, KSA Schüco’s FWS 50 & FWS 50SG with bespoke bullnose capping were used in this project

Haddadin believes that the kinetic façade will be the future, where the curtain wall will be a non-static item. It will adopt to its surrounding climate and environmental conditions to manage light, air, and energy more efficiently.

Katara Towers, Qatar Schüco provided bespoke male & female unitised curtain wall system at straight façade and bespoke UCC semi-unitised system at sword façade and ASS70.BE.VI, ASS70.HI lift-and-slide at balconies

Thermal Performance of Curtain Wall System According to Common, the thermal requirements are constantly increasing in the industry. “At Schüco, we have a huge array of systems which can accommodate from basic thermal requirements to super insulated systems”, he says. It is very important not just to consider the thermal performance of the glass, but the curtain walls and the glass as a complete system.

Especially in this region, the thermal performance shows an important role, and thus needs to calculate all the materials (aluminium, glass, insulation, back pans, etc.) to measure the rate of heat transfer based on the requirement in order to reduce the cooling load of the air conditioning.

Mykoniatis opines that the aluminium is one of the primary framing materials of curtain walls. Curtain walls, however, also have problems, such as lesser thermal efficiency and moisture condensation, especially in countries where there are four seasons like Greece, because of wide glazing windows and metal frames that have high thermal conductivity.

Factors Affecting Failure of Curtain Wall Systems

Zawaya Walk Mall- Dubai

©ESC Aluminium Systems

Common explains that failure of curtain walls can occur due to several factors: poor design, engineering, fabrication and installation. It is critical that the process is well managed from start to finish, ensuring successful implementation of the curtain wall. The input, support, checking, verification, approval etc, from the system supplier can significantly help to mitigate risk. “It is common practice for us at Schüco to check and stamp our customer’s shop drawings, provide factory and site, inspections and training. Having the system supplier on board throughout all phases of the project can be a huge benefit to the client team,” adds Common.

Furthermore, insulation efficiency is more important in high-rise buildings than in low-rise buildings Nowadays we are using Low-e double glazing plus thermal isolators between the profiles (column/transom and pressure plate). These solutions reduce heat loss and prevent condensation in cold weather, or to minimise heat gain and air conditioning cost in hot weather.

Haddadin mentions that the curtain wall industry has come a long way in improving the building envelope insulation throughout the year. Back in the 1940s and 50s, double and triple-glazed insulating unites were prompted after the wide use of single-pane glass. With the inert gas or a vacuum seal between double-glazed panes and low-E coating glass, and by replacing the traditional aluminium spacer with the warm-edge spacer, the thermal performance of the curtain wall was significantly improved.

Moreover, cutting-edge computer technology and thermal mock-up tests, makes reviewing the thermal performance of the façade easier.

On the other hand, a higher level of insulation requirements in the new building codes to maximise the thermal comfort and minimise the energy usage in heating and cooling equipment puts additional pressure on the façade designer to think out-ofthe-box and be more creative.

The main reason for failures, as per my experience, is the quality of the installation, says Common.

Many times, the installers don’t follow the system suppliers’ guidelines regarding the fabrication & installation procedure. In order to save time during the fabrication, often they avoid certain procedures, for example, to make all the drainage holes, or they don’t install silicon on the specific joins that system supplier recommends, causing failures in water penetration or air permeability performance of a curtain wall system, says Mykoniatis.

Haddadin believes that the common causes for failure of a curtain wall system are wind load issues, perimeter anchoring issues, and wavering from the system manufacturer’s instructions during the fabrication and installation stages.

While there are many factors responsible for the failure of the curtain walls, most of them are preventable. In the first stage, a proper system needs to be selected after in-depth technical study to ensure that it will withstand the project and it is surrounded conditions. However, we are experiencing many failures nowadays due to lack of workmanship performance.

©Vistawall International

Using stick curtain wall for low-rise building with small installation areas where installation access is easy - Arzanah Hospital - Abu Dhabi

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“Coming up with the Best Solution at the Most Feasible Price is Always a Challenge”

Sandy Dweik, Vice President and Chief Consultant, Thomas Bell-Wright International Consultants (TBWIC)

What are the key parameters you consider while designing a façade?

The design process starts at the concept stage where we study the project’s function, aesthetics, location and surroundings. Those aspects comprise the key parameters, which we consider throughout the design process. So, if we consider the function, for example, we notice that the design for residential, office or mixed use has a great impact on the project image and façade. This is mixed with the aesthetic intent which is an important driver. So, while many projects tend to blend in with the surrounding fabric, other buildings, especially the public ones like museums or airports compete to be unique and stand out.

In addition to visual, the aesthetic design intent, the location and the surroundings will affect the technical aspects we consider such as the climatic treatments, noise reduction and privacy requirements. This guides us to map out all the possibilities and limitations, and then we work closely with the architect during schematic and detailed design to translate them into a set of design and performance requirements that will guide us to choose suitable systems and materials.

What are the difficulties you face when designing a façade?

Coming up with the best solution at the most feasible price is always a challenge. With the rise of material prices and the cost of labour, we are always looking for smart designs with high quality. The lack of clarity in design intent is also a difficulty that we sometimes face. Many decisions are made throughout the project based on the interaction between the façade consultant and the architect and those decisions result in having the final design of the façade. Therefore, the process in which the project is running is just as important as the technical aspects and capabilities of the team.

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©Thomas Bell-Wright International Consultants (TBWIC)

Is laboratory testing required for each project?

Shams Gateway District, Abu Dhabi, Third party quality assurance and testing

The industry also faces the challenge of adapting to new façade materials that are being developed.

Artificial materials may provide a more lightweight and cheaper solution, however, they provide some uncertainty due to the lack of a proven track record.

The design team must study these materials carefully and prescribe the correct testing to ensure the material can be used.

The availability of many tools such as BIM based design has facilitated this process and made it more integrated into our experience.

What are the latest trends in curtain wall design?

We have noticed many trends that came up throughout the years in the design of curtain walls from simple straight and vertical curtain walls with repetitive modules to complicated shapes and designs.

While the trends in the previous façades were related to structural challenges such as long spans and frameless façades, we have recently seen different trends which are related to more sustainable and green façades.

Many of the buildings we work on have new nontraditional materials integrated into curtain walls to add colour, texture and interest. The latest trend deviates from the typical aluminium and glass look to adopt other materials such as coloured concrete panels, ceramic panels, terracotta and GRC. This has resulted in more interesting coloured and textured panels that are used as spandrel infills or shading projections to façades.

Laboratory testing validates the design of the curtain wall system and makes sure it complies with the project specification. It is also referred to as preconstruction testing because you get the full benefit of it if it is conducted prior to installation on site. Many errors are avoided at the site because of laboratory testing and verification prior to starting installation at the site. Therefore, it is better if such discrepancies are discovered at an early stage before the system is installed wrongly on site.

Many systems are tested and verified, however, projects are not all the same and each curtain wall is unique in its design. In each laboratory test we conduct, a new lesson is learned that benefits the project and its team. As façade consultants, we review any modifications that are applied during the preconstruction testing and make sure they are implemented at the site by inspecting the installed work periodically.

What is the best timing to test the façade at a site?

Site testing is also an important tool that enables us to verify that the design team is installing the system at the same workmanship level as installed during the preconstruction test. It also confirms that any modifications applied during the preconstruction test are implemented correctly at the site. We usually recommend conducting site testing early during the installation phase and if possible periodically throughout the project.

While preconstruction testing can include a large array of tests, site testing is limited to few tests that can be implemented on site. So, for example, the building movement tests cannot be implemented at the site since it is not possible to move the slab edge at the site. Also, the dynamic water test is hard to implement on site due to the difficulty of moving the airplane engine and propeller which generate the wind during the laboratory test.

New site tests are introduced to verify compliance with green building regulations such as the whole building air infiltration test. This test enables us to measure air leakage throughout the whole façade of the building. Of course, the lower the leakage the more efficient the building envelope is considered.

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How do you ensure the façade is built properly and that quality is kept consistent throughout the construction process?

I believe a good project can only be delivered in case we have the proper specification in place at the design stage and a comprehensive tender package that explains the design intent in full detail, both aesthetically and technically.

The façade specialist should specify the right materials and systems for the right application, climatic condition and location. This is the most important step that will guide all parties throughout the construction stage.

Good quality should be the responsibility of all parties at the site. The contractor should have a robust quality control plan to monitor all stages of fabrication and installation and the consultant should make sure that such a plan is actually in place and is strictly implemented.

In your opinion, what are the most common factors responsible for the failure of curtain wall systems?

Cutting costs without proper value engineering is the mother of all mistakes. There should be a façade specialist on board from the beginning to provide the right advice in case the project budget is limited.

Proceeding with a lower budget for the full package that is not studied properly results in getting bad quality systems and installation. In many cases, the results of such a setup end up in a malfunctioned façade that costs more than the original price to fix.

A façade consultant is able to guide the project team through the design and execution of the façade.

During the design stage, the façade’s performance for structural, weather, acoustic, thermal and fire safety must be considered. The project documents must provide a clear picture of what is desired in

©Thomas Bell-Wright International Consultants (TBWIC)

Wafra office building, Abu Dhabi, Technical consulting and third party quality assurance

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order for the contractor’s to execute the project properly. During the execution of the project, the façade consultant will review the contractor’s shop drawings and calculations as well as inspecting the field installation. A successful project must rely on a chain of design, tendering, manufacturing, installation and quality control. A weak point along this process can result in the façade system failing.

What are your expectations for future façades?

We are living in a very creative and interesting era in terms of construction. The need for speed is apparent everywhere and I think that will reflect on many aspects including construction.

Revolutionising the sources of power can result in less expensive small modules that can be tapped into robotically to speed build many prototypes. This has been achieved already through 3D printing and I hope to see new similar innovations that involve a faster design and building process.

The construction industry should also consider to be more harmonised with the environment and try to contribute positively to climatic change. The way we design and occupy our building should be thought of in further depth to try to make this world a better place for future generations.

What developments have you seen in the Middle East market?

Throughout the last twenty years, I have seen the Middle East market develop into a high quality market that follows best practices. However, I believe there is still some room for improvement, particularly in the way that projects are managed.

One of the biggest challenges at the moment is to satisfy the demand in the market for affordable housing without compromising quality. Creating a sustainable market where all parties can contribute to reach this goal is, quite challenging, but with a lot of hard work, I believe this can be achieved.

face to face “The Ambition and Scale of the Local Market has Made UAE a World Leader in Façade Systems”

Benjamin Piper Partner, Design Principal, Killa Design

Ben Piper has held senior roles in a variety of global practices, including Gensler, Halcrow, Atkins, Perkins+Will and Killa Design in designing hospitality, residential and mixed-use developments in the Middle East, India, China, the US and the UK. He holds several technology patents from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology based on his research in the field of computational design tools. As a LEED Accredited Professional, Ben is deeply committed to sustainable design and has implemented numerous energy, water and waste saving principles into his LEED Platinum rated design work. Ben has won a variety of awards for his projects and he is regularly invited to speak about his design work at major conferences and universities around the world.

Here are the excerpts from his recent interview with Window & Façade Magazine…

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Museum of the Future, Dubai (under construction) Image Courtesy: Killa Design

Tell us about your practice and design approach?

Killa Design is a boutique firm of 60 architects, engineers and supporting staff. We seek out projects that push the boundaries of contemporary design and we aim to go beyond expectations in all that we deliver. We develop and design projects that are culturally and contextually sensitive and are sustainable in their approach.

What inspired you to become an architect?

I have always been interested in a wide variety of fields spanning art, engineering, anthropology and natural science. Architecture was a way for me to keep up a broad range of interests and apply them in an artistic field that is also respected as a profession.

Concept Design, Aykon Tower, Dubai Image Courtesy: Killa Design

What is your inspiration while designing?

The composition of a façade in on one hand is very pragmatic; one needs to consider optimising external views, maximising internal daylighting levels and the performance of the building envelope all while meeting the budgetary requirements of the project. On the other hand, façade design is a very artistic process in which the qualities of the façade are ‘composed’ in much the same way that an artist may compose an abstract painting. While the process is less constrained, there are still many factors that need to be considered in the design of a façade including the proportion, the psychological impact or ‘feeling’ of the materials.

We are often requested by our clients to look at alternative façades compositions that give very different qualities to the building design. We may, for example, explore a more vertical or more horizontal composition, a more classical or more contemporary ‘feeling’ in the façade - all through the use of different materials, details, proportions and geometry of the façade.

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VIDA Marina Project, Dubai (under construction) Image Courtesy: Killa Design

Please highlight your projects featuring very innovative and different kinds of façade and fenestration designs.

By definition, the façade is the most visible part of a building design; it is literally the face of a building. For this reason, the quality and refinement of a building’s façade have a huge impact on how the building is perceived. But the design of the façade goes far beyond purely aesthetic dimensions. It has a huge impact on the overall thermal and acoustic performance of the building and ultimately the comfort of the building’s inhabitants depending on how it responds to the surrounding environmental context.

For example, the façade of the forthcoming “VIDA Marina” project was based on a desire of the client to create a contemporary Miami style of building. In order to create this quality, we used simple white panelised surfaces, timber accents, floor to ceiling glazing, external shading louvers and large balconies that serve as transition spaces from inside to outside.

The “Office of the Future” explored a façade design that resulted from the smooth curvilinear forms of the building. We are currently working on a project where the client is keen for us to explore contrasting façade options that are contemporary, classic and industrial in their form - each with their own unique blend of materiality and detailing.

Could you please tell us about the latest façade and cladding technologies and materials available in the UAE market and those you used in your projects?

It is a real privilege to work as an architect in the UAE because it supports such a vast range of façade specialists, designers and suppliers in the local market. The ambition and scale of the local market have led to the region being a world leader in façade systems and technology, and there is a huge amount of local expertise and insight into the world of façades. We have used many façade systems from the local market in our designs and we are proud to support local industry in this way.

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SRG Tower, Dubai (exterior aerial) Image Courtesy: Killa Design

Please brief on technologies you have used in your projects in the recent past.

We are using a variety of technologies in the design of our façades ranging from composite curved panels constructed from glass reinforced plastic bonded with curved stainless steel cladding elements, to robotically fabricated glass fins to hand-rendered finishes. In order to bring such approaches, we need to work handin-hand with the suppliers to develop clever and cost-effective solutions to complex design and construction problems.

What key factors to be considered while designing and installing fenestration?

Depending on the project, there are many key factors to be considered in the design of fenestration. The view out from a window and the sunlight coming through the window are the starting points. But one may also consider how natural ventilation is achieved, the safety of the design from the perspective of users and small children. Clearly cost is often the determining factor in the final selection of a given system.

Address Jumeriah Gate, Dubai (under construction) Image Courtesy: Killa Design

What are your views on the future façade and fenestration technologies as well as materials?

I believe that it is a matter of time until we have fully responsive glazing façades that can adapt to varying solar exposure. As we can see, these advancements happening through the use of new material such as sage glass. I believe that as digital display technology will become increasingly cost-effective, we will see an increasing number of buildings that make use of embedded digital displays that can allow for the live and dynamic adjustment of a building’s façade.

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How can intelligent façade bring in the greenhouse effect and also restricts the intensive use of air conditioning?

The orientation of a façade clearly makes the biggest difference in terms of how it can be used to either capture or deflect solar thermal energy. If a façade is required to do both of these things at different times of day or year, then it must necessarily be a responsive façade. A responsive façade can either use solid state technology such as sage glass to adapt its performance or it can employ mechanically responsive systems such as dynamic louvers or shading screens.

How do you go about choosing the material of façade and cladding?

It is often a gut feeling, a personal choice when choosing the material qualities of the façade.

Office of the Future, Dubai Image Courtesy: Killa Design

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Sometimes something glassy with stainless steel accents, sometimes something earthy with timber and stone. Sometimes one might opt for bright colours or sometimes for a dark and impenetrable black. While the choice is personal it is also in response to the client, their aspirations and the architect’s interpretation of these aspirations in architectural form and appearance.

What is your advice for young and upcoming architects?

Try to broaden the range of design tools in your repertoire so that you can choose the right tool for the job. Try to always know why you are designing in a particular way – why you are designing something in a particular way is more important than how or what you are designing.

Product Watch Effisus Unveils ‘A2 Class’ Fire-rated Waterproof Membrane Effisus has recently unveiled a non-combustible waterproofing breathable membrane for façades. It is a highly differentiated alternative to the combustible breather membranes currently used on façades everywhere. Effisus FR membrane was tested in accordance with EN 13501-1 and has obtained an ‘A2 class’ classification. It is also in accordance with ASTM E84 and has obtained ‘A class’ (or ‘class 1’) classification.

It is CE certified according to EN 13859:2 - flexible sheets for waterproofing.

The Effisus FR membrane is a wall lining waterproofing membrane that is vapour permeable (diffusion open) and is highly tear resistant. It guarantees optimum protection for the structure behind the external cladding against wind, dampness and driving rain. It is permeable to

vapour diffusion, but 100% water tight and wind tight.

It has an exceptional UV resistance and is suitable for façades with open or closed joints. It comes with a large range of accessories that allows its easy installation on the most demanding projects.

Effisus provides excellence in weatherproofing solutions for the building envelope construction segment, maximising building performance and its lifetime. The product primarily focuses on optimising the needs of each project, supported by extensive consulting services. The company aims to leverage strong partnerships in order to achieve efficient sustainability from start to finish.

For more enquiries, contact: alexandrapinto@upwaysystems.com.

Firefighters now have a strong ally in protecting buildings from fire with the new Effisus FR – A2

Non-combustible fire resistant EN 13501-1 - class A2, ASTM E84 - class A

Effisus FR ‘A2 class’ fire resistant membrane is available in rolls of 1.07m width and 93.45m length

38 WFM | JAN - FEB 2019

Product Watch SchlegelGiesse Launches C.H.I.C. 130 Concealed Hinge System The world of aluminium window is evolving towards an aesthetically and technologically advanced window, with ultra slim profiles and concealed hardware.

SchlegelGiesse decided to embrace this trend in 2016 and launched C.H.I.C. - its first range of concealed hardware featuring a 180째 opening, allowing to create a new type of window boasting a frontal section with a slim profile and hinges which are entirely concealed within the profile. In 2018, Giesse decided to extend its line-up of concealed hardware and added a new version with a maximum load capacity of 130 kg, catering for a broader range of building requirements. C.H.I.C. 130 is perfectly in line with the 100 kg version. There are no extra component parts, but simply a set of newlydefined codes to give priority to one key feature that SchlegelGiesse has always refused to compromise on simple and quick assembly.

C.H.I.C. was not only designed with premium top-end buildings in mind. It also aims to meet the requirements of all situations which call for the installation of tilt-and -turn windows, combining a modern design with quick and simple installation, as well as the possibility of opening the sash to 180째.

SchlegelGiesse is the international division of Tyman plc, a company listed on the London Stock Exchange which supplies technologically innovative top-quality components for doors and windows.

For more enquiries, visit: www.schlegelgiesse.com.

C.H.I.C. concealed hardware

C.H.I.C. 100/130 is a concealed hinge system featuring a 180째 opening, a maximum load capacity of 100 or 130 kg, simple and quick assembly, 3D hinge adjustment (height, side and compression on the sash even once the window has been installed) and optimal storage characteristics because it completely does away with the need for additional finishing parts.

C.H.I.C. 100/130 is a concealed hinge system featuring a 180째 opening

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39 WFM | JAN - FEB 2019

Product Watch Axalta Introduces High Performance Thermoplastic Powder Coatings in UAE Axalta Coating Systems, one of the leading global suppliers of liquid and powder coatings, has completed a comprehensive portfolio of high performance thermoplastic powder coatings combining the highest level of corrosion protection, security and costeffectiveness for the operator as well as a simple and environmentally friendly application.

Example of a fencing coated with thermoplastic powder

Axalta engineered thermoplastic powder coatings are designed for toughness and chip resistance without a primer. They provide excellent corrosion protection and weathering resistance and can be sprayed electrostatically, or fluid bed dipped by Axalta’s specialised applicators. Axalta thermoplastic powder coatings are tough enough for lasting performance in a wide variety of aggressive environments and exterior applications, including outdoor furniture, light poles, sign posts, playground equipment, railings and stairways, fencing, cable grids, water transportation pipes, valves and fittings etc.

With the products Plascoat® PPA571, Abcite® 1060, Axalta’s thermoplastic portfolio covers the specific requirements of a large variety of application for the building industry and landscaping providing long lasting protection and proven performance. In addition to the numerous certificates and approvals, Axalta thermoplastic coatings rely on more than 20 years maintenance free references all around the globe, including the Middle East region. Lamp posts, street furniture’s, thousands of kilometres of fences or even manholes have been coated in the Middle East for years using Axalta’s outstanding products. Sandstorms, extreme temperature variations, UV exposures and high humidity could give any coating a hard time, but not for Axalta’s. After 20 years of service, the coating is still in place showing no damage at all.

The keys to the success are the advantage of a unique technology, easiness to apply, environmentally-friendly qualities (PVC & VOC free), and a local support of experts offering the best service and advice to their customers.

For more enquiries, contact: infome@axalta.com, +971 (0)4 821 7666 or visit: www.powder.axalta.com.

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Thermoplastic powder coating used for water infrastructure

Brand Watch fischer fixing systems Announces its Major Plans for 2019 fischer fixing systems, a fischer subsidiary founded in 2006 in the Middle East, has shared its major announcements for 2019 at a recently held press conference in Dubai. The company was started from a 2 member team with a visibility in 2 countries, now the company has expanded to 210 employees with a presence in 10 countries in the GCC in 2018.

The company’s announced plans for 2019 include: • To open a fischer experiential centre in Abu Dhabi to showcase all their innovative solutions • To start Klaus fischer award for best engineering and management student • Engineering support vehicle for staff who are on the job site - pilot unit is in the preparation mode • Introduction of ‘best engineering award’ for contractors • Expansion through wider range of products for MEP & façade contractors fischer’s fixing systems were implemented in various top buildings such as Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, King Abdullah Sports City in Saudi Arabia, Doha’s metro, The Etihad Towers in Abu Dhabi, etc. fischer also highlighted its major achievements to date during the press conference, which include: • I t recently acquired beam façade cladding where the company offers with the system ACT From left to right: Sven Haag, Managing Director, Asia, Middle East & Africa, Jayanta Mukherjee, Managing Director, Middle East & Africa, Wolfgang Pott, Head of Corporate Communications, fischer Group

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(advanced curtain wall technique) - an innovative, high-quality full system for the fixing of ventilated façades for architects and planners. Besides a better workability and economic advantages, the system ACT enables an outstanding architectural creative scope: ACT enables the usage of façade boards made out of Ashlar from 20mm thickness, as well as glass plates ESG and TVG from 6mm glass thickness.

• I nstallation system ‘Samontec’: With this range, fischer offers a system for a reliable guidance and fixing of all sorts of media lines in the building. Technology universal channels, brackets, connection-construction elements, clamps and installation accessories are very variable, combinable and versatile.

• fi scher firestop’s all products are tested to both European and international standards, with many achieving ETA (European technical approval) as well and UL (Underwriters Laboratory) accreditation.

The complete range offers systems for linear gap sealing, cavity barriers, membrane penetrations and service penetrations, with much more time saving and bespoke solutions. fischer is looking forward to continue its growth through customer focus, continuous improvement of all processes and with its skilled team.

Product demonstration at fischer’s press conference in Dubai

Buzz Meraas Completes Active-lit Façade at Dubai Arena Meraas has completed the active-lit façade at Dubai Arena, with the fully installed panelled structure. The work on external infrastructure and landscaping, including paving and parking spaces, are also under way, while the finishing touches are being made to the first of 46 hospitality suites.

Dubai Arena will have the capacity to accommodate more than 17,000 visitors and will be able to host many events all year-round. Located at City Walk, Dubai, Arena has been designed to host endstage, central and half-stage concerts, sporting events such as tennis, basketball, boxing, volleyball and ice hockey, and gala dinners, exhibitions and conferences along with all festival celebrations.

The scope of work included the completion of the roof, façade steel structure and over 80 percent of the roof catwalks (elevated service platforms common in major theatres and arenas). All the concrete, structural and the block works have been finished and the installation of Arena seating

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is underway, while the arena’s rigging equipment, scoreboards, lighting and sound system will start to be fitted from next month.

The complex roof structure of Dubai Arena weighs approximately 4,000 tonnes, equivalent in weight to that of seven A380 airplanes and is supported by two mega-trusses spanning the entire length of the venue.

In addition, lifts and escalators have been installed, and the remaining electrical and mechanical works are progressing on schedule. District cooling service provider, Empower, is due to commence tunnelling works under Sheikh Zayed Road to connect 3,600 tonnes of chilled water to the Arena, and DEWA has already connected power to the building.

AEG Ogden, an international management company, will manage the day-to-day operations of the Dubai Arena. The company has also provided their considerable design and technical expertise during the construction process.

Buzz Emirates Insolaire Showcases Coloured Solar Panel Technology and Projects at WFE Summit Emirates Insolaire LLC, a pioneer in solar technologies and a joint venture between Dubai Investments PJSC and InsOglass S.A., has showcased its range of sustainable, energy-efficient coloured solar panel technology along with examples of its project work at the World Future Energy Summit. World Future Energy Summit is the global industry platform on energy, clean technology and sustainability held in Abu Dhabi from January 14-17.

Emirates Insolaire highlighted a number of international and UAE-based projects at the event, including the completed kindergarten building for Dubai Municipality in Al Twar, ongoing Dubai Investments Real Estate projects at Mirdif Hills, and work for Dubai Investments Park tenants such as Carrefour. Other UAE projects in Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah were showcased, along with international projects in Switzerland, Austria, Denmark, Germany and Brazil.

Rafic Hanbali, Managing Partner at Emirates Insolaire, said: “All of our projects show the capabilities of Emirates Insolaire, the beauty, efficiency and durability of our product, and the growing interest in those sustainable solutions that we offer. It is important to highlight the difference that Emirates Insolaire can bring to construction projects in the region and around the world, as the world becomes more interested in creating a cleaner, efficient and sustainable future.”

Emirates Insolaire produces and distributes coloured solar glass and coloured photovoltaic modules using Kromatix technology, a unique patented product which provides a complete solar solution that can be adapted into any façade or roof of a residential or commercial building, and integrated into any architectural design.

Emirates Insolaire LLC showcased its range of sustainable, energy-efficient coloured solar panel technology at the World Future Energy Summit (WFE)

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