ALPOLIC™ NC/A1

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Fastening Systems

Fixing façade panels: Fixing systems for aluminium composite panels in rear-ventilated façade systems

Choosing the right fixing system is a key factor in the performance of a rear-ventilated façade system. It influences not only the safety and long-term durability of the façade cladding, but also the installation efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and architectural appearance.

Four fixing systems have proven effective for installing aluminum composite panels in rear-ventilated façades. These can be divided into concealed and visible fixing systems:

• Concealed fixing: Cassettes and structural bonding systems
• Visible fixing: Rivets and screws

The panels are typically installed onto a timber or aluminium subframe.

The most suitable fixing system depends on a range of factors, including building height, fire performance requirements, cladding material, subframe type, desired architectural appearance and the available budgetary framework. Each system offers specific advantages and is suited to different project requirements.

1. Concealed Fixing – Premium Aesthetics for High-End Façades

With concealed fixing systems, all fixing points remain hidden, creating clean, seamless façade surfaces that are particularly valued in high-end architectural projects. Cassette systems are the most established solution, combining outstanding façade aesthetics with high structural stability and precise installation. Depending on the project requirements, approved structural bonding systems can also be used.

Cassette System – Concealed, Stable and Premium

Principle:
Cassette panels are fabricated by folding the edges of the aluminium composite panels to form rigid cassette elements. These are then hung or mechanically fixed to the supporting substructure using concealed fixings. As no fixing points remain visible, the system creates a seamless, high-quality façade appearance.

Suitable for:
• Buildings with high design standards
• Office and commercial buildings
• High-rise buildings and projects exposed to high wind loads
• Refurbishment projects requiring clean and consistent joint lines

Advantages:
• Premium façade appearance without visible fixings
• High rigidity thanks to folded panel edges
• Suitable for large-format façade panels
• Excellent performance under high wind loads

2. Visible Fixing – Economical and Proven

With visible fixing systems, façade panels are mechanically fixed directly to the supporting substructure. These solutions are widely used due to their cost efficiency, straightforward installation and proven long-term reliability. Rivets and screws are the most common fixing methods.

Rivet Fastening – Economical, Fast, and Proven

Principle:
Blind rivets are among the most widely used fixing systems for aluminium composite panels. This visible point-fixing method offers an excellent balance of economy, reliability and installation speed.

Suitable for:
• Cost-sensitive commercial and industrial buildings
• Refurbishment projects
• Low- to Medium-height buildings

Advantages:
• Highly cost-effective fastening system
• Technically proven and durable
• Quick installation

Screw Fixing – Flexible and Ideal for Timber Substructures

Principle:
Screw fixing involves fastening the panels directly to the supporting substructure and is primarily used with timber substructures. As individual façade panels can be easily removed and replaced, this system is particularly well suited to demountable façade designs and projects where future maintenance or panel replacement is anticipated.

Suitable for:
• Façade with timber substructures
• New-build and refurbishment projects
• Residential buildings as well as small and medium-sized commercial buildings
• Projects with high requirements for replaceability

Advantages:
• Simple replacement of individual façade panels
• Ideal for timber support profiles
• Cost-effective and easy to specify

Which fixing system is suitable for your project?

Criteria	Cassette	Rivets	Screws
Appearance	★★★★★	★★★☆☆	★★★☆☆
Cost-Effectiveness	★★★☆☆	★★★★★	★★★★★
Substructure	Alu, Steel	Alu, Steel	Wood (primarily)
Substructure Spacing	High	Medium	Medium
Large Formats	Very good	Good	Good
Interchangeability	Good	Medium	Very good

Are you planning a new façade or a renovation? We will be happy to advise you on choosing the right fastening system.

More than standard: Exclusive ALPOLIC™ system solutions for façade fixings

Invisible and precise cassette fixing with EJOT® PEARLOCK

EJOT® and ALPOLIC^TM have collaborated to develop the innovative PEARLOCK keyhole fixing system. This patented system enables the invisible and precise fixing of façade panels made from ALPOLIC^TMaluminum composite panels and ensures a high-quality, uniform façade.

Learn more

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