Thermal Break Strategies for Cladding Systems in Building Structures

Thermal Break Strategies for Cladding Systems in Building Structures

The project will investigate the structural and thermal performance of improved thermally broken assemblies that bridge building envelopes in steel-framed structures to enhance the energy efficiency of a broad range of steel building structures. Examples of such assemblies include cladding shelf angle assemblies, supports for rooftop equipment, and support for cladding projections such as exterior light shelves, canopies, or shading devices. The project includes studying thermal break strategies such as the incorporation of fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) shims between exterior elements and their steel attachments. The research will include ensuring the use of FRP or related technologies within steel connections is safe and effective. The resulting options for designing thermal breaks will help mitigate the unnecessary loss of energy in steel structures and will open a new range of products for use in the building industry. Structural engineers and building owners will benefit from the results of this research through having cost-effective options for mitigating the loss of energy in steel buildings. A final report will be issued at the project completion, in keeping with a complete dissemination plan, which will include a discussion of all key methodologies and results from this project.

  • Grant Details

    Project
    Thermal Break Strategies for Cladding Systems in Building Structures
    Grantee
    Northeastern University
    Category
    Exterior Wall Systems
    Subcategory
    Sustainability
    Grant #
    04-12
    Award Amount
    $195,000
    Grant Period
    July 2012 - June 2015
    Grant Status
    Complete
    Principal Investigators
    Professor Jerome F. Hajjar
    Industry Champions
    Mark D. Webster - Simpson, Gumpertz & Heger, James A. D'Aloisio - Klepper, Hahn & Hyatt
    CPF Allies
    American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC)
  • Resources / Downloads