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Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2024-07-12 Origin: Site
Structural Sealant Glazing (SSG) has become a staple in modern architecture, offering a sleek and robust method of glass installation. However, choosing the right structural silicone sealant for SSG installation is a critical task that requires a nuanced understanding of the materials and processes involved. This article aims to guide interested readers through the complexities of sealant selection and application in SSG installations.
The choice of sealant is not merely a technical specification; it has profound implications for the aesthetics, performance, schedule, installation process, and warranty of a project. Historically, two-component sealants were reserved for factory fabrication due to their requirement for sophisticated pump equipment and regular quality control calibrations. However, advancements in sealant technology have brought about new options for field installations.
One-component, self-priming, neutral cure, structural silicone sealants have a proven track record of success over two decades. They are favored for their simplicity and reliability in field installations. However, the cure time for these sealants can extend from 14 to 30 days or more in colder climates, impacting the project timeline and necessitating careful quality control measures.
On the other hand, two-component sealants, traditionally impractical for field use, have seen a resurgence with the development of fast-cure formulations. These new sealants claim to offer equal performance to their shop-applied counterparts without the extended cure times of one-component sealants. However, their relatively short track record and the challenges posed by field conditions have led to a mixed reception among installers.
One of the critical concerns with current two-component sealant formulations is their fast skin-over times, especially in hot weather. This can lead to issues such as hard edges, fissures, and gaps in the joint, affecting both the aesthetics and structural integrity of the seal. The slow pump speed of two-component sealant guns can exacerbate these issues, necessitating multiple workers to apply sealant to the same panel simultaneously.
Given the complexities and potential issues with both one-component and two-component sealants, performing pre-construction mockups is essential. These mockups allow contractors to identify and resolve quality issues before full-scale production begins, ensuring that the chosen sealant performs as expected under actual field conditions.
Installing the sealant from the building's interior after the new Insulating Glass Unit (IGU) is placed in the opening offers a more reliable method. It allows for continuous inspection and immediate repair of any issues, ensuring a high quality seal.
Some installers may opt for a 'blind' or 'smash' seal, where sealant is applied to the existing frame, and the IGU is pressed into place. This method lacks the ability to gauge the continuity and adhesion of the sealant, and it does not allow for interior access for quality control measures. It should be avoided, especially in hot weather when the sealant may skin over before the IGU is in place.
Always follow the manufacturer's installation procedures and quality control requirements. Use only proven techniques that have been validated through successful quality assurance documentation and quality control testing. Installers with experience in shop-fabricated SSG systems may find field installations present unique challenges that require additional attention to detail and robust quality control measures.
The margin between success and failure in SSG installations can be slim, even to the experienced installer's eye. It is crucial to perform regular quality control testing, such as pull tests and deglazes, to ensure the structural integrity and longevity of the sealant joint.
Choosing the right structural silicone sealant for SSG installation is a multifaceted decision that involves considering the project's specific requirements, the sealant's performance characteristics, and the conditions under which it will be applied. By understanding the nuances of sealant selection, performing pre-construction mockups, and adhering to best practices in installation and quality control, architects and contractors can ensure the success and longevity of their SSG installations.
