Mechanical equipment screens are roof- or ground-mounted panels that form a visual obstruction and hide mechanical equipment from view. They are also known as vision screens or louvered equipment screens.
These screens’ main objective is to enhance architectural beauty without impairing the functionality of the mechanical apparatus it covers.
In areas with rigorous building codes, architectural screens could be necessary. Mechanical equipment screens are a great method to enhance the appearance of your building’s façade, regardless of local requirements.
Louver Fashion
In comparison to solid wall screens, louvered equipment screens are a better choice since they provide lateral airflow into the mechanical equipment area. The blades of these screens’ louvers resemble those of a conventional ventilation louver.
They can be spaced to allow for more (or less) views between the mechanical louvers and open areas. They come in vertical and horizontal forms. Extruded aluminum is used to make Rooftop screens because it allows for greater personalization, produces dramatic edges and sharper lines, and generally appeals more to architects.
Unique Designs
Metal screens can be created to meet the aesthetic needs of the architect without sacrificing the product’s functioning. This adaptability makes it possible to design stunning structures in a variety of architectural styles while simultaneously guaranteeing the safety and privacy of the people and objects inside.
Slats on louvered equipment screens can be oriented in several different ways, whether the screen is on the ground or a rooftop, to best block equipment from line of sight. In addition to painting and anodizing, screens can also be colored and polished in other ways.
Screens For Mechanical Equipment – Location
Architectural equipment screens are typically either ground- or roof-mounted.
Screening Mounted On The Roof
• The architectural steel structure must allow the rooftop equipment screen to attach.
• It’s necessary to assess rooftop mechanical equipment from all feasible viewpoints to decide how much screening (if any) is required.
• Degree of inverted blades point upward and block sight from below.
Ground Mounted Screening
• Ground-mounted mechanical screens come in a range of alternatives, but it might be difficult to blend them in with the surroundings of the building. To soften the appearance of the vision screen and suit the surroundings, think about including hardscapes and green escapes.
• Take into account the viewing angle for the screen. Depending on what you want (and don’t want) people to view, you can change how the louver blades are made. To better meet the demands of the project, louvers can be fitted as slats, pointing downward or upward, or “sight proof” chevron designs can be used.
• Ground-mounted screens offer complete security, preventing any unintentional or intentional public access to the equipment. A screen could include hinged doors and panels. Hardware and padlocks can be used to secure your devices for increased security.
How To Install Architectural Screens For Your Site’s Structure And What To Consider
Make sure your screen has enough support from a steel framework and that the effects of wind and snow have been taken into account. Consider purchasing professionally engineered roof screening for added security.
Visibility
Mechanical screens can be easily modified by engineers based on the level of visibility needed at your site. The majority of vision screens typically allow for at least 50% openness. To allow for greater or less visibility, the blades can be positioned differently.
Design
To ensure that your mechanical equipment screens comply with the local design codes, check with your engineer.
Because they allow engineers and architects to guarantee building functionality while keeping architectural aesthetics, mechanical equipment screens are becoming more and more popular.