Drift performance of point fixed glass façade systems

Abstract

Glass façade systems in buildings are subject to racking actions caused by inter storey drifts from earthquakes and wind action. The performance of façade systems is dependent on the amount of imposed drift and the interaction of the glass panels with the façade structural support frames. There are two major concerns related to the glass façade system performance during and immediately after a seismic event; hazards to people from falling glass and the cost associated with building down time and repair. It was observed that earthquake damage to glass façade systems resulting from in-plane racking actions is increasingly common and yet there has been limited research published in this field. ..