Can curtain wall systems be installed in seismic zones?

Although the Gulf proper has low seismicity, projects near Iran’s Zagros fault or Turkey’s eastern regions require seismic curtain-wall design. Aluminum systems accommodate building movements via slip-track anchors and sliding shoe connections that allow ±25 mm movement horizontally and vertically. Thermal-break polyamide gaskets double as movement seals, maintaining weather-tightness during tremors. Glazing panels are laminated with PVB interlayers, preventing shattering under stress. Engineers run dynamic analysis per UBC 97 or Eurocode 8, verifying that deflections remain within mullion strength limits. Connection details are tested in shake-table facilities. Match ceiling suspensions to the same movement allowances at perimeter zones, ensuring aluminum ceiling panels remain secure during seismic events.