The Spiderglass system, also known as the point-fixed glazing system or VEA, is primarily used for the construction of external facade cladding of significant dimensions, but it is also applied in creating glass walls to separate internal environments. One of the main advantages of the Spiderglass fixing system lies in the particular elasticity of the fastenings which, for the same sheet thickness, allows for the creation of much larger glazed surfaces compared to traditional fixing systems. This is achieved through so-called “rotules” or articulated bolts, which are stainless steel ball-joint bolts.
The Spiderglass Structures
These structures are created by anchoring safety glass sheets (laminated and/or insulated glass) to the load-bearing structure using elastic and point-like mechanical devices (the rotules) capable of absorbing any deformation of the sheet subjected to design loads. The rotules constitute the only point of contact between the glass and the supporting structure and, being very firmly fixed to the glass pane, they become an integral part of it and manage to follow all the deformations of the structure, providing it with its characteristic elasticity.
Thanks to these innovative technical features, the Spiderglass point-fixed system allows for numerous applications, ranging from the creation of canopies to vertical facades and building coverings. The main aesthetic and functional advantages of point-fixed glazing with the Spiderglass method can be identified first in the high elasticity of the structure, which allows it to resist mechanical stress without permanent deformation (and therefore without causing the sheets to break), and secondly in the absence of surface protrusions, as each rotule is inserted into specific holes that completely absorb them, ensuring a flush and seamless finish.
Rely on the Decades of Experience of Vetreria Re
Thanks to many years of activity in the design and creation of architectural glass elements, Vetreria Re is able to produce spider canopies and facades using the Spiderglass method, ensuring high resistance to stress and extreme elasticity. These physical characteristics prevent deformation and subsequent breakage of the glass panes, allowing for larger glass structures than traditional facade systems. By taking into account the limitations of the glass and the load stresses applied to it, it is possible to design and build structures that do not sag or settle under the glass’s own weight beyond design limits, significantly improving long-term comfort.
Depending on structural needs, the “spiders” and their underlying architectures can be made of various materials, the most common being stainless steel, die-cast aluminum, and iron. As for dimensions, Spiderglass facades allow for greater spans than traditional facade methods, provided that the space created at the joining point of the sheets is not excessive. Point-fixed glass technology enables the creation of curtain walls, steel and glass stairs, and external envelopes, as well as partitions, doors, canopies, parapets, balustrades, cladding, and urban furniture elements characterized by innovative design and advanced functionality. Made with safety glass featuring technical characteristics suitable for the stresses they must endure, the canopies and facades created with the Spiderglass system by Vetreria Re are works where engineering and architecture meet design and technology, while maintaining high standards of acoustic silence.