Kimmel Center
LNA Solutions provided the solution for the splicing of structural tube sections used in the arched trusses of the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, Philadelphia. The solution was achieved by using the cavity connectors, over 35,000 3/8" diameter cavity connectors were specified for the 8,800 splice connections of this expansive tube truss. The center, capped by a transparent folded plate-glass barrel vault is supported by structural tube, which extends the length of the structure. The cavity connectors were utilized because the design required a system to splice the tube sections together, be structurally sound, simple to use, cost effective and aesthetically pleasing. Cavity connectors are a unique product, which provided substantial cost savings for the fabricator and contractor by allowing the tube splices to be made without welding or through bolting, eliminating the need to drill extra holes for standard bolting and allowing the connections to be made without field welding.
As well as providing a safe and secure structural connection, the cavity connector design allowed the installation to be made with simple hand tools. The installation was completed easily without purchasing special tools, enabling semi-skilled labor to carry out the work. The cavity connector produced an extremely clean and symmetrical looking connection; the single side design eliminated the possibility of deformed tubes due to improperly torqued through bolts. In addition the structural engineer chose the cavity connector for ease of specification and the knowledge that it would perform to its published high load capabilities. As with all LNA Solutions products the cavity connector had to undergo physical testing to assure it's factor of safety of 5:1. ARCHITECT: Rafael Vinoly Architects PC ENGINEER: Dewhurst Macfarlane and Partners, in association with Goldreich Engineering, PC FABRICATOR: Helmark Steel / Falcon Steel
