Abstract
Glass curtain walls are comprehensive systems including glazing, frame, structural sealing and gasket. These components for unitized and non-unitized (stick-built) systems are technologically sophisticated and work together as a complex dynamic system. The intricate design has to account for structural deflections, thermal properties, acoustic performance, moisture control, fire and smoke protection, among others. Therefore, the design and installation of these components should be conducted as unique process to provide all the described building performance. One of the most critical aspects is related to noise insulation design. On the one hand, research on sound transmission loss in curtain wall systems is conducted through field tests. Although providing the best results, there are very expensive and their findings apply to the specific structure analysed. On the other hand, computational approaches are generally conducted through theoretical Statistical Energy Analysis (SEA) models or theoretical sound isolation prediction simulations. Both methods do not provide reliable solutions and do not include dedicated mathematical models. A third computational approach can be adopted, based on architectural acoustic modelling and Transfer Matrix Method. The aim of this paper is to determine the transmission loss of a curtain wall by means of this approach. The limits of these simulations are investigated in comparison with laboratory results.