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COPPER FOR INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE
2. Joining and Fabrication
There are various joining techniques possible with copper. These
include:
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Butt Weld |
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Bolted |
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Standing Seam |
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Lap Seam w/Fasteners |
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Flat Seam |
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Bolted Flange |
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Spline |
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Flush Lap |
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Batten Seam |
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Lap Seam |
When it comes to attaching the various copper and copper alloy
components together, a few tips will be of assistance:
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Standing, batten or flat seams, which were originally intended
for roofs, may also be applied to interiors as a wall treatment
creating unique and dramatic shadow lines. These systems do not
use mechanical fasteners, but instead rely on loose-lock interconnected
joints for their strength. There are many different shapes and
patterns that can be created using these types of seaming techniques.
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The copper wall, using angled batten-seam joints, is a key component
of this room.
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For a smooth finish, copper can be butt weld and the welds may
be ground down to appear flush too giving a seamless look. This
is especially important for large wall applications or any large
expanse of sheet material, for example a ceiling or multistorey
fireplace.
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In some cases, brazing, soldering or other welding methods can
be used to achieve certain designs. When considering techniques
using high heat input, consideration must be given to the possibility
of thermal discolouration of the metal. However, in some installations,
heat tinting has been used to create additional effects.
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| 4. |
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Blind mechanical fastening techniques can be used when formed
panels are installed in a predetermined pattern with the small
space between the panels forming a linear sightline.
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An interior ceiling system
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Using fasteners is a common joining method, especially for interior
applications where, for example, bolts can play a key role in
the aesthetic design of the structure. Decorative "bolts" can
be also used to reinforce a pattern or create a dimpled effect.
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The copper bar and fascia are striking features at this restaurant.
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The use of lapped seams and connections with exposed fasteners
again can create an unusual wall treatment that is quite reflective.
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Bonding of copper or a copper alloy to a substrate of another
material is not uncommon in interior applications. Difficulties
can result when the substrate and the metal expand and contract
at different rates, eventually resulting in delamination. This
possibility should be evaluated when considering this type of
system.
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Note: In the section on Fundamentals, additional important information
is provided on the compatibility of fasteners for use with copper,
brass and bronze. More information is also provided on dealing
with expansion and contraction.
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