Manufacturers of Architectural Tensile Structures

Architectural tensile structures are innovative, fabric-covered buildings that provide unique aesthetic and functional benefits. These structures are a type of construction that use tensioned fabric or pliable materials to create a strong, supportive structure. They are often used for roofs, and are known for their ability to span large distances. Architectural Tensile structures are generally lightweight and durable, making them an ideal choice for structures that require large spans and cantilevers. They can withstand extreme weather conditions and can be designed to meet specific environmental challenges

Here are some characteristics of tensile structures: 

• Structural support
  Tensile structures are supported by tension, and can be made strong enough to withstand severe weather.  
• Large column-free spaces
  Tensile structures can create large interior spaces without the need for columns. 
• Natural light
  The translucency of the fabric can allow natural light in, reducing the need for artificial lighting. 
• Corrosion resistance
  Tensile structures can be made resistant to corrosion, making them popular for use in waste and recycling buildings. 
• Pre-fabrication
  Tensile structures are easy to pre-fabricate.  
• Malleability
  Tensile structures are malleable and can be designed in a variety of forms, including saddle and cone shapes. 

Tensile structures are different from tensegrity structures, which use both tension and compression elements. 
Here's an overview:

Benefits

1. Unique architectural designs
2. Lightweight and flexible
3. Energy-efficient
4. Cost-effective
5. Quick installation
6. Low maintenance
7. Enhanced aesthetic appeal

Types

1. Tensioned membrane structures
2. Cable-net structures
3. Pneumatic structures
4. Air-supported structures
5. Retractable roofing systems
6. Fabric-covered frames

Fabric Materials

1. ETFE (ethylenetetrafluoroethylene)
2. PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene)
3. PVC (polyvinyl chloride)
4. Polyester-PES
5. HDPE Knitted mesh fabrics

Frame Materials

1. Steel (galvanized or stainless)
2. Aluminum
3. Fiberglass
4. Wood (treated or untreated)

Applications

1. Commercial buildings
2. Residential buildings
3. Hotels and resorts
4. Hospitals and healthcare facilities
5. Educational institutions
6. Government buildings
7. Retail stores and shopping centers

Key Components

1. Fabric membrane
2. Frame structure
3. Cables and tensioning system
4. Anchoring system
5. Foundation system (shallow or deep)

Software for Design and Analysis

1. Autodesk Revit
2. Rhino and Grasshopper
3. SketchUp
4. STAAD
5. ANSYS
6. LS-DYNA
7. Technet Easy Software- membrane analysis
8. DlubalRstab Software – steel analysis

Industry Standards

1. ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials)
2. ISO (International Organization for Standardization)
3. ASCE (American Society of Civil Engineers)
4. IFAI (Industrial Fabric Association International)
5. AISC (American Institute of Steel Construction)
6. Euro Code-03
7. IS Codes (Indian Standard Code) – BIS- Bureau of Indian Standards

Case Studies

1. TCS Amphitheatre – Chennai (INDIA)
2. Infosys UGR Food Court -Chennai (INDIA)
3. Delhi International Airport (INDIA)
4. Infosys Mangalore Amphitheatre (INDIA)
5. Kanha Shanti Vanam Ashram- Hyderabad (INDIA)
6. The Guggenheim Museum (Spain)
7. The Eden Project (UK)
8. The Amazon Spheres (USA)
9. The Singapore National Gallery (Singapore)
10. The Dubai Mall (UAE)

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