Building Construction Handbook, Eighth Edition

Simple support structure as viewed from the underside ~

vertical compression member

stressed fabric

reinforced gussets

peripheral support or ties

tensioned fabric

support cables

tensioned horizontal

cables secured

centrally to a

vertical support

plate

Fabric ~ has the advantages of requiring minimal support,
opportunity for architectural expression in colour and geometry
and a translucent quality that provides an outside feel inside,
whilst combining shaded cover from the sun and shelter from rain.
Applications are generally attachments as a feature to entrances
and function areas in prominent buildings, notably sports venues,
airports and convention centres.

Materials ~ historically, animal hides were the first materials used
for tensile fabric structures, but more recently woven fibres of
hemp, flax or other natural yarns have evolved as canvas.
Contemporary synthetic materials have a plastic coating on a
fibrous base. These include polyvinyl chloride (PVC) on polyester
fibres, silicone on glass fibres and polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE) on
glass fibres. Design life is difficult to estimate, as it will depend
very much on type of exposure. Previous use of these materials
would indicate that at least 20 years is anticipated, with an excess
of 30 years being likely. Jointing can be by fusion welding of
plastics, bonding with silicone adhesives and stitching with glass
threads.

Membrane Roof Structures