Space Frames Uses And Advantages In The Construction Industry

In this post, we are going to discuss space frames their importance uses, and their advantages in the construction industry.

Introduction and Background

From 1898 to 1908 based on tetrahedral geometry, Alexander Graham Bell developed space frames for nautical and aeronautical engineering purposes. Later on, in 1943 Dr. Ing. Max Mengeringhausen developed MERO (MEngeringhausen ROhrbauweise) in Germany which was a space grid system to be used as space trusses in Architecture. Since then they are constantly under research and development making their design more efficient. Today they are being used in many major structures in the world Space frames are designed using a rigidity matrix. The deflection can be neglected if the joints are sufficiently rigid. In simple terms, they are widely used because they can cover or span a larger area with minimal internal support or columns.

They are usually seen at the Airport, Railway Stations, factories, or most importantly at the Stadiums. They are light in weight and their rigidity is high. This truss-like structure is constructed by interlocking the struts in a geometric pattern and its triangular frame design gives it the characteristic rigidity and makes it stronger. Flexing loads or Bending Moment in Space Frames are transmitted along the length in form of compressive and tensile load through each strut. Space frames are made from nodes and correlated members then these nodes and members are connected by bolts.

Types of Space Frame Structures

The Space Frame Structures are classified in two ways as shown below:

• According to Curvature

1. Flat Covers
2. Barrel Vault
3. Spherical Domes

• According to arrangements of its elements

1. Single-layer grid
2. Double layer grid
3. Triple-layer grid

Applications & Uses

Numerous researches were done to evolve and develop the use of space frames in architecture. Some of the uses are mentioned below.

• Lightweight.
• Covers a large span.
• Aesthetically pleasing.
• Requires minimal use of any kind of support or columns.

On the basis of the above benefits Space Frames are used in different kinds of structures:

• Commercial or Industrial buildings
• Factories
• Warehouses
• Aircraft hangars
• Exhibition halls
• Shopping malls
• Stadiums

Advantages of Space Frame Structures

1. Unlike cement, timber, or any other building material, space frames are easy to stack or handle.
2. Can be easily transported to the construction site.
3. They have good acoustic properties
4. Are more suitable for structures that have a larger span.
5. The installation process is very quick and easy compared to other materials.
6. As it is used for large-span structures, it doesn’t require any column or very minimal use of columns.
7. The cambering facilities are adjustable.
8. Have a high duration to depth ratio.
9. The transportation costs of space frames are very low.
10. They are lightweight and rigid.

Conclusion

In conclusion, space frames are light in weight and their rigidity is high. They can be used for longer spans