C-channel glazing prototype opens up a world of opportunities for curved glass projects

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A German designer has created an alternative to kiln-molded and u-shaped channel glazing for creating curved glass walls.

“c--c” by Holger Jahns is a prototype for a new type of channel glass which is designed to be fixed together at any angle and to create curves without gaps appearing between the panels.

Presented at DETAIL research lab, in Munich (01/2015) and at Glasstec 2014 in Düsseldorf (10/2014), c--c has been pitched as a more affordable option to the costly kiln-molded curving methodology, and a more design-flexible option than the traditional U-channel version.

The name derives from the shape of the outer contour of the glazed panel which is C-shaped on both ends.

U-channel glazing is a very popular and affordable way to create curves in glass, however due to its profile, as the curve gets tighter, gaps between the glass panels get larger. The curved profile of the c--c on the other means glass panels can be fixed together at any angle and create any curve without gaps appearing between the panels. (see comparison below)

ABOVE: When applied to a tight curve standard U-shaped channels develop larger gaps between panel.
BELOW: The contours of the c--c prototype means it can make tight and wide curves without gaps appearing between the panels.

Because of this profile, architects and designers can also alter the radius of their curve, even if materials have already been purchased, making c--c a potential player in the prefabrication market.

More info on c--c here.
Images: Jahns Holger. Source: Arch Daily