Unit and Mullion Curtain Wall System

A unitized curtain wall system and a mullion curtain wall system are two common types of curtain wall constructions used in modern architecture. Both systems provide weather protection, structural support, and aesthetic appeal but differ in design, installation, and performance characteristics.

1. Unitized Curtain Wall System

• A unitized system consists of pre-assembled modular units (panels) that are manufactured in a factory and installed on-site as complete units.
• Key Features:
• Prefabrication: Units are assembled off-site, ensuring higher quality control and faster installation.
• Large Panels: Each unit typically includes glass, spandrel panels, and framing, which are connected to the building structure.
• Quick Installation: Since units are pre-assembled, on-site labor is reduced, speeding up construction.
• Weathertightness: Factory-sealed joints improve water and air infiltration resistance.
• Structural Efficiency: Units are designed to accommodate building movement (thermal expansion, seismic activity).
• Cost: Higher initial cost due to precision manufacturing but may save on labor and time.

Advantages:

✔ Faster installation
✔ Better quality control (factory conditions)
✔ Improved weather resistance
✔ Suitable for high-rise buildings

Disadvantages:

✖ Higher upfront cost
✖ Requires precise measurements and planning
✖ Limited flexibility for on-site modifications

2. Mullion Curtain Wall System (Stick System)

• A mullion system (or stick system) involves individual components (mullions, transoms, and glass/panels) being assembled piece by piece on-site.
• Key Features:
• On-Site Assembly: Vertical mullions and horizontal transoms are installed first, followed by infill panels or glass.
• Flexibility: Easier to adjust and modify during installation.
• Lower Initial Cost: Less expensive than unitized systems but may require more labor.
• Customization: Allows for complex designs and irregular building shapes.
• Maintenance: Easier to replace individual components.

Advantages:

✔ Lower initial material cost
✔ Greater design flexibility
✔ Easier to handle and transport (smaller components)
✔ Better for low- to mid-rise buildings

Disadvantages:

✖ Slower installation (more on-site labor)
✖ Higher risk of installation errors (weathertightness depends on workmanship)
✖ More susceptible to air/water infiltration if not properly sealed

Comparison Table: Unitized vs. Mullion Curtain Wall

Which One to Choose?

• Unitized: Best for tall buildings, tight deadlines, and projects requiring high weather resistance.
• Mullion (Stick): Ideal for custom designs, smaller projects, and cost-sensitive applications.

Both systems have their place in modern construction, and the choice depends on project requirements, budget, and timeline. Would you like recommendations for a specific project?

Guangya Project Case: Hongkong International Airport
Product: Curtain Wall & Window Wall
Area: 7500㎡

EUT175A serie unit and mullion curtain wall system uses single glass and insulated glass, and the main profile wall thickness is 2.0mm. 

 

A unit mullion curtain wall system has several features, including:

Pre-assembled panels: The façade panels and metallic framing members are pre-assembled in a factory, then transported to the building site and attached to the building's load-bearing elements.

Multi-story vertical mullions: The system combines the pre-assembled panels of unitized systems with the multi-story vertical mullions of stick systems.

Quick and easy installation: The prefabricated panels can be quickly and easily assembled on site.

Quality control: The system ensures a high level of quality control for the curtain wall components.

Lower installation costs: The system has lower field installation costs.

Economic benefits: The economic benefits are typically realized on large projects or in areas of high field labor rates.

Variety of panels: The panels can be fully glazed, glazed with opaque panels, fully opaque in metal or stone slab, louvered panels, or other special modules.

 

Widely used in urban high-rise buildings, long-span buildings, special-shaped buildings, building lighting roofs, public buildings or building complexes.

EUT175A serie unit and mullion curtain wall system

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