University of Massachusetts, Integrated Sciences Complex

SGH provided consulting and structural design services for the faceted, three-dimensional curtain wall assemblies that surround the atrium and wrap onto the roof to provide a sloped glazing system.  We also assisted with the design of two sections that encapsulate stairwells at each end of the building.

For these custom systems, SGH proposed a steel plate mullion system, provided basis-of-design documents for this concept, performed preliminary analyses, and developed details for the mullion structure and associated connections to the building superstructure.  Our analyses and detailing accounted for differential movement between systems due to thermal, wind, and seismic loads.  We also developed a water management system for the enclosure that utilized a redundant drainage system with intermittent weeps to drain water at key points.

The project was publicly bid as a delegated design project, with the manufacturer responsible for final curtain wall design.  SGH remained involved during construction providing review of the final analysis and proposed detailing.  We assisted during the laboratory mockup testing and construction phases.  Our services included review of structural shop drawings, field performance testing, and quality reviews during the installation.