What is the best tensile fabric?

PVC Coated Polyester: PVC coated polyester can be a great material choice for both permanent and temporary tensile fabric structures. PVC coated polyester is known for its excellent strength, flexibility, translucency and affordability compared to PTFE coated glass cloth and ETFE.

Is tensile waterproof?

Tensile fabric offer many benefits, such as high UV protection, 100% waterproofing and high durability. They are a stylish alternative to a polycarbonate roofed canopy and create a stunning architectural feature to an area.

What is the durability of tensile fabric?

The membrane material itself can withstand within the range of -40o C to +700 C.

Warranty for the fabrics is usually about 25 years (minimum lifespan).

SOME OF THE TENSILE FABRICS USED

All fabrics will stretch when pulled in opposite directions to create tension however, some fabrics exhibit different characteristics. There are currently four types of fabrics that are used today for tensile fabric structures:

PVC Coated Polyester Fabric

This is a cost-effective fabric having a 10 to 20-year lifespan. It has been used in numerous applications worldwide for over 40 years and it is easy to move for temporary building applications. PVC meets B.S 7837 for Fire Code.

PVC Glass Fabrics

This material is used for internal tensile sails, such as features in atriums, glare control systems, with a minimal need for maintenance. PVC glass fabrics meet B.S 476 Class 0 for Fire Code.

PTFE Coated Glass Fabric (permanent structures only)

This has a 30-year lifespan and is completely inert. It does not degrade under ultraviolet rays and is considered non-combustible by most building codes. PTFE meets B.S 476 Class 0 for Fire Code.

ETFE Foils (permanent structures only)

This is used in inflated pillow structures where thermal properties are important. The foil can be transparent or fritted much like laminated glass products to allow any level of translucency.

What are the advantages of tensile structures?

Tensile fabric structures are distinguished by the tensioning of a membrane system, which is typically accomplished with wire or cable. They are lightweight compared to other types of construction, but extremely strong, providing protection from all the elements