A survey of glazing system behavior in multi-story buildings during hurricane andrew

摘要: A focused survey of glazing system behavior in multi-story buildings the direct aftermath Hurricane Andrew was conducted. Seventeen and four building complexes were examined between 26 August 30 August, 1992. The surveyed spanned a 32 km (19 mile) distance from Miami on north to Cutler Ridge south. With few exceptions, systems performed poorly damage contents extensive. following specific observations made: (1) impacts windborne debris dominant cause glass failure; (2) wall anchorages sometimes failed; (3) prevention ‘blow-through’ after internal pressurization significantly mitigated storm interiors; (4) outer-lite-only failures occurred some insulating units. Results underscore vital importance maintaining integrity envelope during severe windstorm. Windborne must be considered design architectural systems, as proper framing members.