When we talk about structural materials in general, we refer to all materials that are used in the construction of an architectural work. Specifically, as Directive 89/106 states and Interpretative Document No. 1 specifies, “A structural product is one that enables the work where it is incorporated to meet the essential requirement ‘Mechanical Strength and Stability’.” This requirement is considered fulfilled if, when installed in the work in question, it makes it possible to prevent the collapse of the work or any part of it, impermissible deformations, damage to other parts or facilities, or damage that is disproportionate to the cause that triggered it.
Structural glass shelters: the making
The construction of structural glass canopies is an extremely complex operation from a mechanical and engineering point of view, and requires the intervention of qualified professionals capable of performing all the complex calculations that can ensure their stability and resistance to stress. Indeed, it is essential in the construction of the support structure of glass canopies to carry out static verifications, either by means of appropriate tables or diagrams, or by means of FEM models on the basis of experimental data. Vetreria Re, which has been in the business of designing and fabricating structural glass works for more than 20 years, is also involved in the design and fabrication of structural glass canopies.