The Kawneer 1600 Wall System®1 Curtain Wall is a versatile and high-performance architectural solution designed for mid-rise and low-rise buildings. As an outside-glazed, captured curtain wall system, it offers a blend of structural integrity, aesthetic flexibility, and functional adaptability. The system supports various configurations, including different sight lines, mullion depths, and optional features like steel reinforcement and rain-screen backpans. These characteristics make it a preferred choice for a wide range of commercial and institutional projects across the U.S., as demonstrated by its use in locations such as Bethesda, MD, Washington, DC, and California.
This article provides a detailed exploration of the 1600 Wall System®1, covering its technical specifications, product features, optional enhancements, and real-world applications. The goal is to equip architects, engineers, and construction professionals with the knowledge needed to understand the system’s capabilities and limitations.
Technical Specifications and Structural Design
The 1600 Wall System®1 is engineered to meet modern architectural and performance standards. It features a standard 2-1/2" sight line, with optional mullion depths of 6" (152.4 mm) and 7-1/2" (190.5 mm). These dimensions allow for a clean, monolithic appearance while accommodating various glazing and insulation requirements. The system supports both single- and twin-span configurations, with infill options ranging from 9/16" to 1-5/16" depending on the application.
The curtain wall is constructed using aluminum components, with the option for steel reinforcement to enhance structural rigidity in certain applications. This reinforcement is particularly useful in high-wind zones or seismic regions, where additional strength is required. The system’s design also includes concealed fastener joinery, which contributes to the seamless and uninterrupted appearance that is characteristic of modern curtain walls.
One notable feature of the 1600 Wall System®1 is its adaptability to different glazing methods. The system supports both dry and wet glaze techniques, offering flexibility in installation and maintenance. Dry glaze involves the use of sealants and gaskets to secure the glass without direct contact with the frame, while wet glaze uses a more traditional method involving adhesives applied directly to the frame.
The curtain wall also accommodates impact-resistant framing options in various widths, including 7-1/16" (177.8 mm), 7-13/16" (198.43 mm), 10-1/16" (255.58 mm), and 10-13/16" (274.63 mm). These options are particularly relevant in regions prone to windborne debris, where building codes require additional protection for openings. The impact-resistant configurations ensure that the curtain wall can withstand extreme weather conditions without compromising structural integrity or occupant safety.
Optional Features and Customization
The 1600 Wall System®1 offers a range of optional features that allow for customization based on project-specific needs. These include:
Steel Reinforcing: This option is recommended for projects that require enhanced structural support, such as those in high-wind or seismic zones. Steel reinforcement can be integrated into the mullions to increase rigidity and load-bearing capacity.
Rain Screen and Backpans: These components help manage water infiltration by creating a drainage plane behind the curtain wall. The rain screen acts as an outer layer that prevents water from entering the building envelope, while the backpan provides a secondary barrier and insulation.
Deep Profile Covers and Bull Nose Covers: These optional covers are used to create a more refined and finished appearance. Deep profile covers can be applied to the edges of the curtain wall to conceal structural components, while bull nose covers provide a rounded, decorative edge that enhances aesthetics.
Deep and Heavy-Weight Mullions: For applications requiring greater load capacity or thermal performance, deep and heavy-weight mullions can be used. These components are particularly useful in large-scale projects or those with complex architectural designs.
Profit$Maker® Plus Die Sets: These are specialized tools designed to streamline the manufacturing and fabrication process. By reducing the need for custom tooling, they can help lower production costs and improve efficiency.
Dual-Color Option: This feature allows for the application of two different colors on the curtain wall, either on the same panel or across different sections. It is particularly useful for creating visual contrast or highlighting specific architectural elements.
These optional features can be combined in various ways to meet the specific requirements of a project. For example, a building located in a hurricane-prone area might incorporate impact-resistant framing, rain screen backpans, and steel reinforcement to ensure maximum durability and compliance with local building codes.
Product Applications and Real-World Use Cases
The 1600 Wall System®1 is well-suited for a wide range of applications, particularly in low- to mid-rise buildings. Its versatility makes it an ideal choice for commercial, institutional, and residential projects. The system can be integrated with other Kawneer products, including entrances, GLASSvent® systems, and sun control solutions, allowing for a cohesive and functional building envelope.
Several real-world projects highlight the system’s adaptability and performance. For instance, the CW Harris Elementary School in Washington, DC, utilized the 1600 Wall System®1 in conjunction with custom GlassVents. The project involved the fabrication and shipment of knockdown (KD) components for field installation, demonstrating the system’s ability to support complex logistics and on-site assembly.
Another example is the EuroMotorcars facility in Bethesda, MD, which underwent a redesign in 2020. The project utilized the 1600 Wall System®2, along with shop drawings and engineering provided by LTS and installation by PCC. This case illustrates the system’s role in modernizing existing structures while maintaining architectural integrity.
In California, the High Desert Regional Health Center project incorporated the 1600UT curtainwall, 250T Doors, and Versoleil Sunshades. This combination of products highlights the system’s compatibility with other Kawneer offerings and its ability to meet diverse design and performance needs.
These examples demonstrate the system’s ability to accommodate a variety of architectural styles, from sleek and modern to more traditional designs. Whether used in a new construction or a renovation project, the 1600 Wall System®1 provides a reliable and aesthetically pleasing solution.
Compliance, Sustainability, and Certifications
The 1600 Wall System®1 is designed to meet or exceed industry standards for performance, safety, and sustainability. It has received several certifications and recognitions, including the Cradle to Cradle Certified® Bronze designation. This certification evaluates the system’s material content, recyclability, and manufacturing processes, ensuring that it aligns with sustainable building practices.
The system also complies with relevant building codes, including those related to windborne debris resistance and seismic performance. The AAMA 501.6 Seismic Test Flyer provides detailed information on how the curtain wall meets seismic requirements, making it suitable for use in regions with high seismic activity.
In addition, the system is covered by Florida Product Approval and Texas Department of Insurance Evaluation Documents, which certify its compliance with state-specific regulations. These documents are essential for projects in hurricane-prone areas, where building codes are particularly stringent.
The 1600 Wall System®1 also supports energy efficiency through its integration with thermal technology solutions. By reducing heat transfer and improving insulation, the system can help lower energy consumption and improve occupant comfort. More detailed information on thermal performance is available through the product selection guide and other technical resources.
Conclusion
The Kawneer 1600 Wall System®1 Curtain Wall is a versatile and high-performance architectural solution that offers a balance of structural integrity, aesthetic flexibility, and functional adaptability. Its design incorporates a range of optional features that allow for customization based on project-specific requirements, from structural reinforcement to impact resistance and dual-color finishes.
With its ability to meet modern building codes and sustainability standards, the system is well-suited for a wide range of applications, including commercial, institutional, and residential projects. Real-world examples demonstrate its effectiveness in both new construction and renovation projects, where it can enhance the building’s appearance, performance, and durability.
For architects, engineers, and construction professionals, the 1600 Wall System®1 represents a reliable and innovative solution that can help achieve both design and functional goals. Whether used in a low-rise structure or a mid-rise building, the system provides a high-quality, long-lasting curtain wall that meets the demands of today’s architectural landscape.