Experience the Fusion of Form and Function at the University of Texas’ Moody Center with Solarban® 70 Glass by Vitro Architectural Glass!
The University of Texas at Austin’s Moody Center arena is a true masterpiece of design and engineering. Boasting a sweeping 360-degree curtainwall design, this 15,000+ seat venue is an architectural marvel that combines aesthetic appeal with energy efficiency and sustainability.
To achieve this unique design, the architects turned to Solarban® 70 clear glass from Vitro Architectural Glass. This high-performance glass, along with smaller portions of Solarban® 70 Solargray® glass, provides solar control, a color-neutral aesthetic, and exceptional views into and out of the arena. As a result, the Moody Center has earned LEED® Gold certification and is saving close to 14% in energy costs compared to similar buildings.
The glass modules used in the curtainwall design are tall and thin, ranging from 40 to 50 feet by 105 to 123 feet. With a visible light transmittance (VLT) of 64% and a solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) of 0.27, Solarban® 70 clear glass is perfect for accommodating the unique shape of the three different aluminum-framed captured and structural silicone glazed curtainwall systems that encircle the facility.
Dean VanLith, Vice President of Dynamic Glass, praised the precision and attention to detail required to complete the project successfully. “The geometry of the oval façade required precise fabrication and tagging of aluminum frame parts and the glass panels,” he said. “Fortunately, we had a very detail-oriented and thorough project manager, Tristar Glass fabrication manager and superintendent, as well as top-notch glaziers.”
Aside from the curtainwall design, the Moody Center’s 70,000 square foot wood canopy is a standout feature. Cantilevering over the entrance, it provides shading and enhances the venue’s aesthetic appeal.
Other notable design features include under bowl ventilation, making it the second arena in the country to use this system, and customized fabric-wrapped aluminum frames that can fold into the ceilings and close off the arena’s 5,000-seat upper bowl to reduce HVAC costs and create a more intimate setting for smaller events.
The Moody Center arena is a true testament to the power of design and engineering. To learn more about Solarban® 70 glass and other products from Vitro Architectural Glass, visit www.vitroglazings.com.
Source: Vitro Architectural Glass with additional information added by GlassBalkan
