Pressure-Cap Facade Systems

Pressure-cap facades and structural silicone glazing facades can be used in the same kinds of projects; the main difference is the external appearance and how the glass is held on the outside. In a pressure-cap facade, the glass is mechanically fixed with a pressure profile, and a decorative aluminium cap is visible over it. In a structural silicone glazing facade, these cap lines are not visible from outside, giving a more unified glass surface. Some professional facade systems can offer both pressure-plate and structural silicone glass retention on the same mullion-transom substructure.

Pressure-cap facade systems

A pressure-cap facade system is a curtain wall system in which the glass is mechanically fixed with pressure profiles onto a supporting structure made of aluminium mullion and transom profiles. The aluminium caps visible on the outer surface emphasise the horizontal and vertical lines of the facade, creating a more characteristic architectural appearance.

The glass surface is formed by the supporting profiles, gaskets, pressure profiles and outer caps working together. Depending on project requirements, different glass thicknesses, fixed sections and opening window solutions can be integrated into the system. Effective water drainage solutions are also part of the system design in pressure-cap facades.

Where is it used?

It is used for business centres, shops, showrooms, office buildings, hotels, commercial buildings, and architectural projects that call for large glass facades. It is particularly preferred in projects where the horizontal and vertical aluminium lines on the facade are meant to be seen as a design element.

Advantages

- The glass is mechanically fixed with pressure profiles.

- Horizontal and vertical facade lines can be emphasised with the outer caps.

- Makes it possible to create large glass surfaces.

- Different glass thicknesses and opening sash solutions can be applied.

- High-performance facades can be created with a thermally insulated system and suitable glass selection.

- Different forms and surface options for the cap profiles give freedom in architectural design.

Difference Between Pressure-Cap and Structural Silicone Facades

In a pressure-cap facade, horizontal and vertical aluminium cap profiles are visible on the outside of the glass. These profiles emphasise the modular lines of the facade.

In a structural silicone glazing facade, by contrast, neither the pressure profile nor the cap is visible from outside; mainly the glass surface and the joint lines between the glass panels are seen. This gives a simpler, uninterrupted glass facade appearance.

The two systems can also be used on the same building facade. For example, a structural silicone system may be used on the main facade, while the pressure-cap solution is chosen for sections to be given architectural emphasis. However, the junction details between the two systems, water drainage, glass loads and supporting profiles must be resolved together for the specific project.

Points to consider

Supporting mullion and transom profiles must be calculated according to building height, axis spacing, glass dimensions and wind loads. Glass thickness and type should also be determined according to facade dimensions and conditions of use. For water and air tightness, it is important that the gaskets, pressure profile, drainage channels and junction details are installed in line with the system manufacturer's technical requirements.