When it comes to architectural design, tension fabric structures have emerged as a revolutionary alternative to traditional shading structures. What’s unique about tension fabric structures is the blend of aesthetics and functionality they offer.
That said, with the utility and beauty of tension fabric installations, the demand for high-quality fabric has never been higher. Below, we’ll delve into the intricacies of these structures and the importance of selecting the right fabric.
What are Tension Fabric Structures?
Tension fabric structures are architectural and engineering designs that use tension forces to create stable and lightweight structures. Tension fabric structures use specially designed fabrics and tensioned elements, like cables or membranes, to distribute the load and stress. These installations are similar to tension canopies, but are free-standing and do not require attachment to a building or structure. Tension fabric is also often used to fabricate Shade Sails.
Picture a giant canvas, stretched out and held firm by stainless steel cables or masts — that’s a tensioned fabric structure. But these aren't just fancy tents. They're permanent structures designed to withstand the elements.
Examples of Tension Structures
Everyday examples of tension fabric structures can be found shading playgrounds, recreation sites, parking lots, outdoor lounge areas, campus quads, and more. Famous examples of tension fabric structures include the award-winning Hartford HealthCare Amphitheatre installation in Connecticut, Luxembourg’s 2020 World Expo Pavilion in Dubai, the Munich Olympic Stadium in Germany, and Denver’s historic Union Station.
Brief History of Tension Fabric & Membrane Structures
The big brain behind these structures is Frei Otto, an architectural visionary. Inspired by nature, he looked at thin shell structures and the captivating hyperbolic paraboloid curvature. The result? Structures that use less material, are kinder to our wallets, and give Mother Earth a much deserved break.
Understanding Tension Fabric and What Makes it Unique
The specially engineered fabric used in tension structures, canopies, & shade sails promises tensile strength and extreme durability. These fabrics are designed to face the outdoors, be low maintenance, and have a very long lifespan.
But there's a softer side to it, too. The fabric has this neat trick of translucency. It lets in just the right amount of daylight, lighting up spaces below while also offering shade from those harsh UV rays.
Types of Fabric: Industry Leading Tension Fabric Manufacturers
When it comes to tension fabric structures, choosing the right type of fabric is critical. Here's a closer look at the industry’s four leading options:
Polytex® & Comtex® Shade Sail Fabric
Polytex is a medium-duty knitted shadecloth made from HDPE, giving it a strong, yet stretchy, structure. Its “Raschel Knit” design means it won't easily tear, even if it gets a bit roughed up. Polytex is ideal for small to medium tension fabric structures.
Comtex is also a knitted shadecloth made from HDPE but is meant for medium to large structures, providing heavy-duty performance with a proven history of longevity under even the harshest conditions & elements. Both Polytex and Comtex fabrics are trusted to shield UVA and UVB rays, and come with a solid fire safety rating, meeting NFPA-701.
Commercial NinetyFive 340
Commercial NinetyFive 340 isn't just another outdoor shade sail fabric, it's a jack-of-all-trades & fabricator favorite for tension structures over parking structures, playgrounds, pools, and other shade applications.
Made from UV-protected HDPE, it offers a comforting shield from over 90% of UV rays and a high level of durability throughout the seasons. It's also a friend to the environment, free from lead and phthalates, and even recyclable. Plus, with a 10-year UV protection warranty, it's a choice you can trust.
SolaMesh® Fabrics
If you're hunting for top-notch shade sail fabrics, look no further than SolaMesh, a gem you'll find only at Trivantage®. This fabric has weathered the fierce sun of places like the Middle East and Australia, proving its mettle. Crafted from HDPE monofilament yarn, SolaMesh stands up to UV rays, holds its shape, and is pretty low-key when it comes to upkeep.
With its generous width of 118”, it's a dream for big projects, be it shade sails or bespoke awnings. Whether you're jazzing up a patio, park, or playground, there are 19 lively colors to choose from, like Ocean Blue or Lime Green. To make it even better, a solid 10-year warranty backs each shade.
Architec 400® Shade Sail Fabric
Architec 400 is a 400 GSM High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) shade sail fabric formed through a combination of monofilament yarn and Polyfab’s Ovalon™ monofilament yarn.
It offers maximum strength, minimal stretch, and UV protection of 90 percent and greater. A fantastic option for shade structures as it is durable and comes in a variety of colors and textures.
Partner with Trivantage for Your Fabric Needs
Navigating the world of tension fabric structures can be intricate, but with Trivantage by your side, you're in expert hands. Our curated selection ensures you have access to the best fabrics in the industry.
The fabrics we offer promise durability, style, and eco-friendliness. Let's bring your vision to life with the perfect fabric blend. Contact us today to explore our extensive range and get personalized recommendations — we're here to support you and your team every step of the way.
