Anchors
Anchors on facades are fastening elements that ensure the secure mounting of exterior cladding to the supporting structure of buildings. These anchors are critical for maintaining both the aesthetic and structural integrity of the building
Types of Anchors
Mechanical Anchors
- Steel Anchors: Made from stainless steel or galvanized steel. They provide high strength and corrosion resistance.
- Chemical Anchors: Made using chemical resins. They offer strong adhesion to hard surfaces such as concrete and stone.
Embedded Anchors
- Internal Anchors: Anchors embedded in concrete during the construction of the structure.
- Post-Installed Anchors: Anchors installed after the completion of the structure.
- Connection Details
- Specifications / Application
Applications
- Glass Facade Systems: Used for mounting glass panels. They can be made of steel or aluminum.
- Stone Facade Cladding: Used for mounting natural stones such as marble and granite.
- Composite Panels: Commonly used for mounting aluminum composite panels.
- Ventilated Facade Systems: Used in facade systems that increase energy efficiency by allowing airflow.
Fastening Elements
- Screws and Bolts: Available in various lengths and thicknesses. Made from materials such as steel and stainless steel.
- Anchors: Used on surfaces like concrete and brick. They can be plastic, metal, or chemical.
- Hooks and Clamps: Commonly used in stone and panel systems.
- Profile Systems: Usually made of aluminum or steel and ensure the proper alignment of panels.
Installation and Safety
- • Static Calculations: Each anchoring system must be designed with the loads it will bear in mind, and static calculations must be performed.
- Installation Instructions: Installation must be carried out according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Corrosion Protection: Protective measures must be taken against corrosion for anchors exposed to the outdoors.
- Periodic Maintenance: Regular maintenance and inspection are necessary to ensure the longevity of facade systems.
Standards and Regulations
- TS EN 1993 (Eurocode 3): Determines design criteria for steel structures.
- TS EN 1992 (Eurocode 2): Determines design criteria for concrete structures.
- TS EN 1090: Contains conformity assessment criteria for steel and aluminum structures.
Innovations and Developments
- Lightweight and Durable Materials: Anchors are becoming lighter and more durable thanks to new materials.
- Modular Systems: Modular anchor systems that allow for easy assembly and disassembly are being developed.
- Energy Efficiency: Anchor solutions compatible with innovative facade systems that provide energy savings are being developed.
Facade anchors and connection elements are critical elements of buildings in terms of aesthetics and safety. Therefore, the selection, assembly and maintenance of the right anchor system is of great importance.
Advantages of Facade Anchors
- Installation is fast and simple thanks to its adjustable structure in all directions.
- Small edge distance allows installation close to the edge or front end of the floor slabs.
- It has high carrying capacity for both horizontal and vertical loads.
- Special design and dimensioning can be made to suit various fixing applications.
