Stone curtain walls typically consist of a support framework made from materials like aluminum beams, steel structures, or glass ribs. They are not designed to bear the structural load of the main building but serve as an exterior cladding system. This distinction is important because it defines their role in the overall building design.
One of the most common installation methods for stone curtain walls is dry hanging. Although this technique may cost slightly more than wet bonding, it offers several advantages. Dry hanging is safer and more reliable, reducing the risk of stones falling, especially on high-rise buildings. In contrast, wet-bonded systems are more prone to efflorescence, which can dull the appearance of the facade. Additionally, wet installations have weaker resistance to freeze-thaw cycles, making them unsuitable for colder climates where ice formation can cause damage over time.
There are several benefits to using stone curtain walls:
1. Natural material with a luxurious and elegant appearance. It is durable, long-lasting, and adds a sense of grandeur to any structure.
2. Freeze resistance: When stone is exposed to moisture, it can withstand freezing temperatures without significant damage. Water inside the stone's pores expands when frozen, which can cause cracking if the stone is not strong enough to handle the pressure. Stones with fine-grained, well-cemented structures tend to perform better in such conditions.
3. High compressive strength: The strength of stone varies based on factors like mineral composition, grain size, and the uniformity of its internal structure. Dense stones with fine grains generally offer greater durability and strength under load.
However, stone curtain walls also come with certain disadvantages:
1. Using large stone panels for high-rise buildings can pose serious safety risks. In many cases, construction projects are awarded based on the lowest bid, leading to substandard materials and poor workmanship. Contractors may cut corners to save costs, compromising the integrity and safety of the curtain wall.
2. Design flaws are common due to a lack of expertise. Some architectural firms do not fully understand the complexities of curtain wall systems, resulting in poorly planned installations. In some cases, the design is done by the subcontractor rather than the original designer, leading to inconsistencies and potential failures.
3. Fire performance is a major concern. Stone curtain walls are not fire-resistant, especially in tall buildings. During a fire, heat can weaken the metal components, causing the stone to break off and fall, posing a danger to people below and complicating firefighting efforts.
In conclusion, while stone curtain walls offer aesthetic and functional benefits, their use must be carefully managed. Safety, quality, and proper design are essential to ensure long-term performance and minimize risks. Always follow engineering guidelines and consider the specific characteristics of the stone when planning and installing a curtain wall system.
NICE Series - an Integrated Solution for Elevators & Escalators
Monarch's Integrated Solution combines control intelligence & inverter drive in one compact package.
An innovative solution for OEM`s who value reliable state of the art performance at a highly competitive cost.
A NICE new comfortable experience from Monarch.
NICE3000+ Elevator High Performance Integrated Controller
Comprehensive Function Features
Direct-To-Floor
By the principles of distance, automatically generate the smooth curves from start of parking, no crawling and directly stop in the levelling position.
Optimum Velocity Profile Efficiency
The elevator controller will optimise the velocity profile based on the desired travel distance demand instead of floor number.
Advanced Door-Opening
Under the automatic operation state, the speed during stopping is less than 0.1 m/s and the gate signals effective, system shorts door-lock signal through advanced door-opening module and then opens the door ahead of time to enhance the elevator efficiency
Category Door Open Holding Set-Time
System can automatically identify different time to keep the open calls to open the door, instructions to open the door, the door to protect open, delay to open the door and to open the door inaccordance with the setting time.
Re-levelling
This may occur when the lift stops at the floor station, and a large number of persons or goods enter or leaves. The levelling fluctuates because of the elastic deformation of elevator Wire Rope and the rubber. System is allowed to run automatically at the relevelling speed to the levelling station with the door open.
Self-Rescue Levelling
The elevator is in its normal operating state, but doesn`t stop at the correct level. If it meets the safety requirements to run, the lift will automatically run slowly to the nearest floor area, and then open the door.
Emergency Inertia Rescue Mode
Applicable for permanent-magnet synchronous motors only. When there is a power failure, system will short-circuit the motor phases through its contactor and produce a restraining torque when in motion. Based on the elevator inertia, the elevator will slide slowly and controller will open the elevator door when it reaches levelling position.
Emergency Self-Rescue Time-Out Protection
When elevator is at balance load or rescue device power capacity is inadequate. Long rescue time lapse is expected and accident may occur. This function enables the system to self-disable the emergency operation.
Elevator Position Auto Calibration
Each time the elevator enters the terminal floor zone, system will self-calibrate the position counter with respect to the 1st slowdown limit switch so that elevator over travel operation will be eliminated.
Fire Alarm Rescue Function
Enable user to preset the elevator designated homing floor when fireman mode is enabled
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