Attributes of Concrete and Steel Wall Panels

The SlenderWall system is a composite, lightweight wall system that takes advantage of the unique properties of steel and concrete to achieve a durable and aesthetically-pleasing façade system. Its exterior surface is 2-inches of reinforced traditional architectural precast concrete. The panel’s interior surface is 16-gauge, 6-inch galvanized or stainless-steel studs on 2-foot centers. The composite section of steel studs and high-strength architectural precast concrete provide the system with strength and stiffness to allow the system to resist hurricane level winds and seismic movement.

Securing the 2-inch concrete facing to the steel frame are a series of proprietary ThermaGuard connectors, which are insulated, epoxy-coated stainless-steel Nelson anchors. These connectors not only securely anchor the concrete facing to the steel frame, but also provide the means to allow the concrete to respond independently to thermal gradients with a ½-inch air space between the precast concrete and the stud frame. This reduces thermal transfer from the exterior to the interior of the building by as much as 25%.

In addition to the thermal transfer reduction, another proprietary technology, DuraFlex 360°, is utilized. This technology allows isolation of the exterior precast concrete skin from the structural stresses associated with wind loading, structural steel movement, expansion and contraction, and seismic movement. DuraFlex 360° is the only 2-inch wall connection that meets the AAMA 501.4-2000, Interstory Differential Movement, Vertical and Horizontal Displacement Test. The exterior 2-inch-thick architectural precast concrete face can be finished with a variety of textures, colors, shapes, applied products, or finishes. SlenderWall utilizes 5,000 psi concrete with either galvanized wire mesh and/or PVA fibers.