Challenge
For the WTC1, architects SOM wanted louvres that didn’t look like louvres, but required lots of airflow, low pressure drop and absolutely no water entry.
Solution
CS worked with SOM and the mechanical contractors to design and develop a custom, wind driven, A-rated louvre system specific for the project’s needs. Using elements from three different standard louvre models, CS created a new custom model that would supply the required free area and water resistance for the building’s HVAC system housed across 18 floors.
Providing air and stopping water – 100 storeys up
The CS louvres act as a reverse plenum to stop water. With no windows in front of them, the storm resistant louvres are fully exposed to the elements. The louvres are also angled back 18° and notched at the corners to match the building’s exterior skin.
Creating a concealed airflow system to work with the building’s monolithic design.
On the lower floors of the WTC1, a security grille is positioned 2.1 metres in front of the louvres and behind open glass panes. CS was able to prove the louvres’ performance by replicating the exact site conditions in our exclusive test chamber.
For the WTC1 project CS supplied:
- 18 floors of louvres
- 15,481m² of louvres
- 429 tonnes of aluminium
- 41,633 litres of coating
- 989,780 fasteners
