The Kawneer Clearwall curtain wall system is designed to provide an all-glass monolithic aesthetic for building facades. It utilizes toggle-based glass retention, offering multiple glazing options and interface methods. Installation involves screw spline and shear block joinery, with options for field or shop assembly. The system is applicable for low-rise applications, typically four floors or less, and is available with various finishes and optional features, including hurricane impact resistance. Full technical support is provided by 3M for applications utilizing 3M™ VHB™ SGT (structural glazing tape).
System Overview and Glazing Options
The Clearwall system is characterized by its ability to achieve a continuous glass appearance. Three primary glazing options are available, all employing a toggle-based glass retention system. These options include Clearwall® SS (screw spline), Clearwall® SB (shear block), Clearwall® SSI (screw spline interface), and Clearwall® SBI (shear block interface). Additional options include Clearwall® SSIT (screw spline interface tape) and Clearwall® SBIT (shear block interface tape).
The toggle assemblies capture glass units of varying thicknesses. Toggles can accommodate standard 1″ (25.4mm) insulating glass units attached with a shop-applied metal interface utilizing 3M™ VHB™ SGT. They also capture 1-1/8″ (28.6mm) insulating glass units with a recessed spacer, where the inside lite of the unit is directly engaged by the toggles. In this configuration, structural silicone is not required. Silicone compatible EPDM glazing materials are used to ensure long-lasting seals.
Installation Methods and Joinery
Installation of the Clearwall system benefits from screw spline joinery, which allows for shop assembly of ladder sections, thereby reducing field labor requirements. Two primary interface methods are utilized: screw spline interface (SSI) and shear block interface (SBI). Detailed drawings are available for Screw Spline (SSI) Typical Details at 7-1/2 in depth, Screw Spline (SSI) Corner Details at 7-1/2 in depth, and Screw Spline (SSI) Anchor Splice Details. Corresponding details are also provided for Screw Spline (SSIT) configurations. Digital files, including CurtainWall-Kawneer-Clearwall-SSISSIT.rvt and Curtain_Wall-kawneer-Clearwall.rvt, are available for use.
The system allows for a 5/8″ (15.9mm) exterior vertical and horizontal weatherseal sightline and a 2-1/2″ (63.5mm) interior metal sightline. The innovative toggle assembly eliminates the need for field application of structural silicone in certain configurations.
System Components and Compatibility
The Kawneer installation instructions list several systems for which instructions are available, including: 1600 LR, 1600 Screw Spline, 1600 Slope Glaze, 1600 System 1 & 2, 1600 System 3, 1600 System 4, 1600 System 5, 1600 UT, 1620, 1630 SS IR, 2000 Skylight, 2250 LR, 2500 PG, 2500 UT, Clearwall, FG501T, InFrame, Inlighten, IR-500 / IR-501, IR-501T / IR-501UT, Sunshade, and Trifab.
The Clearwall system also offers integrated entrance framing systems. It is compatible with air barrier and backpan applications and can be utilized with Profit$Maker® Plus die sets.
Finishes and Performance
Clearwall is available in Permanodic® anodized finishes and painted finishes, offered in both standard and custom color choices. The system has been comprehensively tested to meet the latest high-performance standards. It is also available with hurricane impact resistance for SSI and SSIT configurations.
Safety Considerations
While the products themselves are not inherently hazardous, potential hazards can arise during alteration processes such as cutting, welding, and grinding. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) provide detailed information on specific hazards and the necessary protective measures to be employed.
Optional Features and Applications
Optional features for the Clearwall system include air barrier and backpan applications, and compatibility with Profit$Maker® Plus die sets. The system is particularly well-suited for low-rise applications, specifically those of four floors or less, where a sleek, uninterrupted all-glass facade is desired.
Support and Resources
Full technical support is available from 3M for the application of 3M™ VHB™ SGT used in Clearwall® SSIT and SBIT configurations. A leading Kawneer distributor can assist with projects from start to finish, including take-off, estimating, project management, and installation, to ensure a positive and seamless process.
Conclusion
The Kawneer Clearwall curtain wall system provides a versatile solution for achieving a modern, all-glass aesthetic in low-rise building applications. Its toggle-based glazing retention system, combined with various installation methods and finish options, offers flexibility and performance. Proper installation, adherence to safety guidelines, and utilization of available technical support are crucial for successful project completion.