TS EN 1999-1-1 – Design of Aluminium Structures

TS EN 1999-1-1 (Eurocode 9-1-1) sets the general rules for load-bearing aluminium members and is particularly relevant to façade profiles. Key technical clauses for façade engineering are summarised below.

1. Material Properties (Clauses 3 & 5):
• Characteristic values such as modulus of elasticity, yield strength and density are specified. Example: EN AW-6063 T5 profiles – E ≈ 70 GPa, f_0.2 ≈ 160 MPa (3.2.1).
• Post-weld strength reduction must be considered (5.2.3).

2. Section Classification & Resistance (Clause 6):
• Sections are classified 1-4 against local buckling (6.1).
• Façade profiles are usually Class 3-4, requiring effective-section calculations.

3. Stability & Buckling (Clause 9):
• Checks for axial, flexural and torsional buckling are given (9.2–9.4).
• Thin-walled members demand accurate k-factor selection.

4. Serviceability Limit States (SLS) (7.2):
• Deflection limits typically L/250 – L/500; for glazing support, flimit ≤ L/500 is recommended.

5. Durability & Corrosion (4.2):
• Aluminium is naturally corrosion-resistant but galvanic corrosion risk exists.
• Use isolating gaskets where dissimilar metals meet.

6. Welded & Bolted Joints (Clause 8):
• Bolt shear/tension capacities depend on grade and plate thickness (8.5).
• HAZ strength reduction must be accounted for in weld design (8.4).

7. Design under Wind & Thermal Loads:
• Wind actions are obtained from TS EN 1991-1-4; stresses and deflections are verified with TS EN 1999-1-1.
• Thermal expansion effects require allowance in anchors and joints.

Information is based on EN 1999-1-1:2007. Consult the full standard for detailed design and National Annex provisions.