According to tensile fabric structures experts and associations, Tensile membrane Structures or Tensile Fabric structures are characterized by tensioning the fabric or pliable material system (typically with wire or cable) to provide critical structural support.
Tensile Membrane Structures, also known as Tensile Fabric Structures, stand out for their unique design. These structures, whether permanent or temporary, serve a variety of purposes. They can be used as canopy structures for commercial or public assembly, temporary event structures, modular industrial construction, and even as landscape artwork. The key feature of these structures is their light and airy look, achieved by minimizing framing and utilizing the fabric's strength to maintain stability and equilibrium.
The versatility of Tensile Membrane Structures is evident in their various applications. These lightweight structures can be used as roofs, protective covers, shelters, skylights, advertisements, and/or identification for a wide range of venues. They can be tailored to suit different needs, from stadiums, arenas, and shopping malls to amphitheaters, bandshells, and stage covers. They are also used as tents and shade structures for airports and transportation depots.
Tension structures utilize technical fabric roof membranes, a combination of catenary cables and clamping systems, and minimal framing to create proportionally lightweight structures capable of spanning great distances. Tensile membranes are available in exterior-grade vinyl and woven fabrics and Teflon™ coated fiberglass. These translucent tensioned membrane structure fabrics carry seven—to twenty-year warranties.
Yes we design and fabricate tensile structures starting from 100 sq. ft. for private residences too
These unique and very attractive tensioned shade structures are suitable for the typical private residence. Depending on each project's overall size and scope, price ranges start from Rs 500/- to Rs 4000/- per sq ft
Today’s prices for engineered fabric tension structures are in the neighborhood of Rs. 600 per square foot, although prices have ranged from Rs 500/sqft to Rs 4000/sqft. (HDFE, PVDF coated PVC, PTFE, ePTFE, STFE, ETFE air-supported Structures, etc.). Every design is unique, and prices will vary depending upon the overall complexity of the project, size, design, engineering calculations involved, the scope of work, municipal codes & permit requirements, timetables, and other site logistics.
Upon full project discovery and disclosure, our professional staff will work with you to produce a fixed price for required engineering certifications. Once engineering certifications and materials are defined, a firm price will be provided for project management, manufacturing and installation services.
The frame and cables are typically constructed with steel. The cables will either be stainless steel or coated with a clear PVC finish to protect against corrosion. Cable terminations will exude an elegant style. The steel frame will be finished with a smooth layer of powder coat over a base of primer. An epoxy wet paint finish is recommended if the structure is located near a harsh marine environment.
The covers are usually made of high-tensioned architectural fabrics such as PTFE or PVC. PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) is a high-strength architectural fabric.It takes a minimum of 1 month to a maximum of 1 year, depending on the size of the project.
One Week for 3D design drawings from time of approved contract terms and receipt of deposit
Two to Three Weeks for engineering analysis and calculations from the time of design approval
Two weeks are needed for the stamped engineering report and drawings after completion of the engineering analysis. (on demand)
One Week for field measurements from the time of footing completion
One to Two Weeks for shop drawings after field measurements are surveyed
One to Two Weeks to order and receive materials after completion of shop drawings
Four to Eight Weeks to fabricate frame and fabric membrane after receipt of materials
One to Three Week to paint the frame after its fabrication is complete
Two Weeks to deliver and install the frame and fabric membrane
(12-14) Weeks Total*
*The schedule is based on a medium-sized project. Additional lead time may be required for:
Integrating tensile structures with regular buildings involves a strategic approach to combine architectural and structural elements seamlessly. They can be used as curtain walls either as building cladding for atriums or courtyards in intense solar regions or as shading systems in conjunction with glass curtain walls. They can be used as canopies that join on the outside of buildings to give flair at entrances and as covered walkways. They can be stand-alone pavilions that act as objects in the streetscape. They not only provide shelter but also introduce natural light and enhance the aesthetics of a building.
The natural states of pure tension and pure compression are the most efficient in building physics. This means the least amount of material is required to build these structures, saving the earth's precious resources for future generations. Tension structures are buildings that are being pulled rather than squeezed like compression structures. They require considerable foundations to hold them down but defy gravity in their forms and structure. This gives the Architect a whole new vocabulary of shapes and forms to work with. However, tension structures must always be in tension; if any part of the structure goes into compression, the structure loses strength. Almost all tensile structures have finite elements in compression, such as columns, portal frames, and truss arches.
This can vary depending on the design and specification of the materials and on other factors such as maintenance, cleaning, and location. Typically, a PVC membrane would last around 25-30 years, and a PTFE structure would last in excess of 35 - 40 years. Fabric technology, design, and manufacturing techniques are advancing all the time, and we’re seeing the lifespans of tensile structures increase.
Tensile fabric structures are inherently sustainable due to their material efficiency, which minimizes resource usage and environmental impact. They enhance energy efficiency by allowing natural light to penetrate, reducing the need for artificial lighting, and providing thermal regulation. Their adaptability and potential for disassembly and reuse contribute to extended lifespans, reducing the demand for new construction.
Various fabric materials are used in the construction of tensile fabric structures, each chosen for its specific characteristics and suitability for the intended application. Technospan Structures Pvt Ltd uses many types of Fbrics and foils types: PVC-coated Polyester, PVC-coated Glass Fibre, silicone-coated Glass Fabric, PTFE-coated Glass Fabric, STFE 50% transparent material for skylight Roofs; HDPE Knitted mesh fabric for parking and play area shades; ETFE foils- single-layer / Multilayer cushions, etc.
The design process is similar to conventional buildings; however, the design process for tensile fabric structures is specialized, emphasizing form, fabric properties, and unique engineering considerations. It is essential to have initial loads for the foundations early on during the Design Development Phase of the Project. This means the design of the tensile structures should start in Schematics or at the beginning of the Design Development Phase. The construction of the structure occurs off-site (since it is prefabricated), and is installed towards the end of a conventional building project. Installation on site generally takes a short period.
There are two basic building blocks of anticlastic tensile structures: the Saddle and the Cone. The Saddle is a hyperbolic paraboloid, meaning it is a surface made of two high points and two low points. The geometry of the surface is orthogonal or made by the warping of a rectangular grid. The Cone is like a volcano shape using a radial geometry created by radians and hoops to create surfaces. These two forms can be combined to create an infinite number of permutations, much like the circle and the square in classical architecture. Synclastic forms such as Domes and Flat panel membranes are also offered.
With a wealth of Design, Manufacturing and Installation knowledge and experience, we offer a fast and efficient turnaround of both large and product based Tensile membrane structures for all types of environment be it exterior, interior or exhibition purposes.
In the present environment, Tensile Fabric structures are recommended as they are aesthetically proven using the fifth building construction material which has the ability to take any desired shape with high level of reflectivity of heat. We are the most trusted suppliers of Tensile fabric roofing shades in India