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Looking for tensile structures but not aware of their types?

Well, worry not! In this post, we shall discuss the different types of Tensile Structures. So, scroll down to read the full post.

Before we talk about the different types of Tensile Structures, let’s first know what tensile structures are.

What are Tensile Structures?

A tensile structure is a type of construction comprised of elements that only carry tension and no compression or bending. Most of these tensile structures are supported by tension or bending elements such as masts, compression rings, or beams.

Tensile membrane structures are most commonly used as roofs. Besides, they can also be used to construct sports facilities, warehousing and storage structures, and exhibition halls. The market is swamped with Tensile Structure Manufacturers, but you need to make sure that you choose the best.

Different Types of Tensile Structure Systems

Tensile construction systems are primarily classified into three types:

1. Membrane tensioned structures: In membrane tensioned structures, the membrane is held in place by cables, allowing for the distribution of tensile stresses through its form.
2. Mesh tensioned structures: The Mesh of cables holds the intrinsic forces and transports them to separate elements, such as sheets of glass or wood, in Mesh tensioned structures, hence the name.
3. Pneumatic structures: Pneumatic structures, a protective membrane is held in place by air pressure.

Types of Tensile Structures

Tensile Structure Manufacturer manufactures different types of structures for varied needs of the consumers. Here are the top seven types of tensile structures available:

1. Linear tensile membrane structures: Linear tensile structures are those in which all of the members are subjected to linear tensile forces. The compression members support these linear members, but the tensile members carry the majority of the loads. The following are examples of linear tensile structures:
   Suspension bridges
   Draped cables Trusses
   Trusses made of cable and so on
2. Three-dimensional tensile membrane structures: Three-dimensional tensile systems usually have anticlastic or synclastic doubly curved shapes. Because the opposing curves balance each other at every point on the surface, doubly-curved surfaces can be tensioned without distorting their form. Different types of three-dimensional tensile structures include:
   Bicycle wheel
   3D cable trusses
   Tensegrity structures
3. Surface-stressed tensile membrane structures: Surface-stressed tensile structures are tension-bearing members. A protective membrane is supported by air pressure in a Surface-stressed fabric structure, which is commonly used in building facades and dome tents. There are several types of surface-stressed tensile structures, such as Gridshell Fabric structure Prestressed membranes Pneumatically stressed membranes
4. Anticlastic or Synclastic Structures: Anticlastic structures, commonly known as saddle shapes, are those in which the curvature centers are on opposing sides of the surface. Anticlastic surfaces are hyperbolic paraboloids. In comparison, Synclastic structures have their centers or curvature on the same side of the surface. These are dome-shaped constructions.
5. Parallel Arch or Barrel Vault Structure: This curved structural form carries loads around an opening and transfers them around the arch's profile to abutments, jambs, or piers on either side. Arches are structurally very stable in compression because loads are distributed fairly evenly throughout their form. These structures are relatively inexpensive.
6. Conical Tension or canopy structure: Conical structures, as the name implies, have single or multiple masts. PTFE or PVC membrane is tensioned between a ring at the high point and the lower perimeter support columns in these structures. Cones are especially useful in areas where high rain or snow load regulations must be followed.
7. Cable net membrane Structure: Many Tensile Structure Manufacturers also provide 3D cable net and cable grid structures. These structures are effective, lightweight tensile construction solution. These designs are frequently used for protracted tensile membrane roofing applications, particularly in stadiums and other large spaces.

Conclusion

These are the various types of Tensile Structures. The majority of these structures are used to cover large areas, such as stadiums, event spaces, and halls. You can choose any of these structures based on your needs. However, you must make sure that you choose the best Tensile Structure Manufacturer for the job. A reputable Tensile Structure Manufacturer will always deliver high-quality results.