Frankfurt Airport, Terminal 3
POLYLAM vertical baffle system with a zigzag fold on the underside (approx. 39,400 running meters)
Dimensions: 40 mm wide and 150 mm high slats that can be slid or folded down, with a 200 mm module spacing; Material: galvanized steel; Finish: powder-coated in medium bronze; Perforation: RV-L6, with unperforated underside
Utility channel for integrating cameras, speakers, sprinklers, etc. (approx. 4,100 running meters)
Dimensions: Width: 186 mm, Height: 150 mm, Length: 3,000 mm; Material: galvanized steel; Finish: powder-coated in medium bronze
Raft ceiling for a custom climate ceiling (555 pcs.)
Dimensions: Width: 100 mm to 497 mm, Height: 39.4 mm, Length: 1,000 mm; Material: electrolytically galvanized steel; Finish: powder-coated in RAL 9016; Perforation: RV-L9, with black acoustic fleece
Rectangular metal panels as a custom Torsion Spring solution for a climate-controlled ceiling (approx. 8,000 m²)
Material: electrolytically galvanized steel; Finish: powder-coated in various colors; Perforation: RV-L6, with black acoustic fleece, partially unperforated
With Terminal 3, Frankfurt Airport is expanding its role as one of Europe’s most important international air traffic hubs. The new terminal combines functionality, comfort, and architectural clarity. The ‘Growing Beetle’ concept, developed by Mäckler Architekten, describes a modular terminal design that can be expanded in stages. Much like a beetle, whose body consists of clearly defined segments, the terminal is composed of individual modules that can be added to or adapted as passenger volume increases. This allows the airport to remain flexible and respond to future demands without significantly disrupting ongoing operations.
The concept of flexibility is also reflected in the ceiling systems realised by durlum. At the heart of the system is the POLYLAM vertical baffle ceiling, featuring a zigzag fold developed specifically for Fraport AG. Implementing this custom solution posed a particular technical challenge due to the design requirements. The baffles, powder-coated in medium bronze, add structure to the expansive terminal while also providing quick access to the ceiling cavity for maintenance and inspection work.
The system is complemented by service ducts integrated into the POLYLAM ceiling, which house technical installations and enable a functional and visually harmonious integration of the building services.
In addition, durlum supplied custom-designed raft ceilings and rectangular metal panels for the climate control ceilings in areas not accessible to the public, such as the Federal Police offices.
With these tailor-made solutions, durlum is contributing to making the vision of a future-proof terminal a reality.