Tensile and lightweight structures are renowned for their elegance and practicality and have become an increasingly popular choice in modern architecture. As well as being aesthetically pleasing, these structures exemplify engineering ingenuity, in part because of the unique properties of the materials used.
In this article, we will explain how the materials used in tensile fabric structures make them a suitable choice for a wide range of architectural applications.
Well-designed tensile fabric structures have the ability to withstand significant stress without collapsing. High tensile strength is essential, as these structures rely on tension to maintain their shape. Fabric strengths are designated by type from I up to VIII, with the larger the number the greater the tensile strength. Type I fabrics tend to be used in either small permanent or larger demountable structures, whereas the majority of permanent structures are designed with Type II, III, or IV fabrics.
Flexibility and elasticity are vital attributes of tensile fabrics to create the dramatic, swooping shapes characteristic of tensile architecture. The fabric must be stretched and manipulated into the desired forms without compromising its structural performance. The materials used in these structures are highly non-linear, as the rate of increase in deformation in not always in proportion to the rate of increase in applied load. Understanding how the fabric will behave is therefore a crucial part of the design of tensile structures and fundamental in being able to correctly prepare fabric patterns.
Since many tensile fabric structures are constantly exposed to the elements, resistance to ultraviolet (UV) light and extreme weather is crucial to ensure that fabrics retain their original appearance and do not degrade over time. Coatings are applied to the fabric base cloth to enhance the resistance to sunlight and weathering and are critical to ensuring longevity and maintaining the aesthetic appeal of the structure in the long term.
Tensile structure fabric materials are unique because they allow natural light to gently permeate their surface, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere within the space below. Natural light in a building is essential for a warm and welcoming environment, significantly enhancing aesthetics, reducing energy consumption, and positively impacting the well-being and productivity of the building’s occupants. This material property makes tensile fabric structures suitable for public spaces, such as walkways, atriums, sports facilities, shopping centres, and transport hubs.
At Fenton Holloway, we are one of a limited number of specialist consultants with the expertise and experience to successfully deliver tensile structure designs. For more information about our services, please email Neil Holloway at nholloway@fentonholloway.com