Thinshell is made of a 2¼" thick concrete skin attached to a metal stud frame system that achieves the beauty of precast mixes and can do so at a lower cost and lighter weight than traditional precast.
Panel Description
Architectural Precast Concrete Thinshell panels consist of a 2 1/4" thick solid concrete skin attached to a steel stud frame system. The frame is typically made from 4" deep tube steel members. The overall thickness of this system is typically 7 1/2". Studs are typically placed at 2'-0" on center and typically have 3/8" diameter galvanized steel pins welded to the steel frame. These pins are embedded in the 2 1/4 inch concrete skin which is reinforced with steel mesh. The entire concrete skin and frame system weighs approximately 32 pounds per square foot. The maximum size of a Thinshell panel is determined by material properties, project requirements and shipping limits.
Architectural Design Capabilities
Architectural Precast Concrete Thinshell Panels are limited to flat wall type surfaces. In some cases small bullnose projections can be used, but add more weight and cost to this system. Thinshell is cast with a conventional precast mix (White cement; 1/2" to 3/4" aggregate; sand; and a color additive to achieve the Designers desired look). There are few limits to the colors that the designer can choose from and all of our designs are custom made for each individual project. Thinshell gives the designer the option to choose between a light or heavy sandblasted finish. A heavier blast will expose the aggregate in the mix and can produce a different color/texture affect. Multiple colors in the same panel is an option.
Willis Construction has been providing Architectural Precast Concrete building panels and products for the construction industry since 1979. Willis Construction is dedicated to providing Owners, Architects, and General Contractors with the design and engineering expertise necessary to meet the building challenges of today and the future. The quality, durability, and long life of Architectural Precast Concrete, Thinshell, and GFRC (Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete) systems provide a wide range of design options for virtually every type of building. Contact us to decide which system would be best suited for your next project.
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