Twinfix provided a 21st century modular glazing panel system for the walls of the Millennium Dome. The lightweight glazing panels, a unique development of Twinfix's Multi-Link-Panel system, celebrate modern design and materials. Ideal for this futuristic showcase, it is dynamic and unrivalled in concept. Other competitive glazing systems were around, in one form or another, since the 19th century.

Instead of using a traditional glazing bar system comprising a base bar, glazing material and a bar cap, this modular panel system offers a unique 'fix and link' feature which allowed the installer to rapidly fit the panels onto a steel bow string truss structure.

The lightweight glazing panels are glazed with a combination of monolithic and multiwall polycarbonate. Each glazing panel combines an anodised aluminium frame with polycarbonate. Over 12,000 square metres of polycarbonate was used, including Lexan Exell D and Lexan Thermoclear. Some glazing panels were screen-printed with a silver horizontal pattern to improve the level of solar control. The overall effect is a pleasing coalition of glazing finishes that allows varied levels of natural light into the vast Dome.

At over 10m high and 1km long, the concave wall consists of over 2,000 panels in total, each measuring up to 3500mm by 1000mm. Specially designed concertina gaskets provide the finishing touch.

Fulfilling criteria set by the Richard Rogers Partnership, Twinfix designed the panels so that the system can be easily re-arranged or re-sited in the future. All elements of the system are recyclable.

More commonly specified in roof glazing applications at schools, leisure facilities and railway stations, Multi-Link-Panels offer a creative solution to problems caused by traditional glazing that has failed. The panels are installed very quickly, taking up to 50% less time than other systems.

Twinfix supply Multi-Link-Panels to individual specifications for each project. A variety of frame colours and glazing tints is available.