Subframe for glass-fibre reinforced concrete

Subframe for glass-fibre reinforced concrete

GRC, or glass-fibre reinforced concrete, is cement mortar reinforced with alkali-resistant glass fibres. Thin shells from about 10 to 12 mm thick can be cast into almost any shape: relief panels, curved elements, deep cornices, columns and large architectural features. GRC combines the look of concrete or stone with a fraction of the weight of solid precast.

Where it is used

• Sculptural facades with deep relief and curved forms
• Cornices, window surrounds and decorative details
• Large-format flat panels in smooth or textured concrete finish
• Restoration and new buildings that need historical profiles in modern materials

Subframe approach

Panels are fixed to a steel or aluminium subframe with anchors cast into the back, usually supported at several points on a stiffening frame. The ventilated facade subframe is designed to hold the panel weight, to allow adjustment in three directions and to accommodate the often irregular geometry of each unit. For relief and curved panels, the rail layout is drawn in 3D to match.

Design points

• Weight per panel can be high, so brackets and anchors are chosen from the stronger series.
• Fixing adjustments are essential, since cast elements have tolerance.
• Thermal and moisture movement is taken by sliding anchors.
• Check the joint design at panel junctions, which have to be waterproof and flexible.
• GRC is non-combustible, but the assembly on buildings above 12 m is reviewed in Georgia under Chapter 14 of the Building Safety Rules.
• In seismic Tbilisi, panel anchorage is verified for lateral loads.

Pricing is on request. Send us your drawings or models and we will prepare a subframe design and calculation.

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