Space frame systems are a type of prefabricated construction used to span large openings, consisting of three-dimensional, highly rigid tubes and spheres. The economic and practical nature of this system is increasing its demand. Today, throughout the world, prefabricated space frame systems are used instead of prestressed concrete and classic steel roof constructions for spanning large openings such as factories, gymnasiums, and indoor swimming pools. Space frame system elements can easily span openings of all sizes, from 10 meters to 100 square meters.
Space Frame System Manufacturing
In space system manufacturing, ST 33 black welded pipe ends, cut with 1/5 precision using special saws, are fitted with specially shaped cones made of ST 60 hot forging, using gas shielded welding with the same precision. These cones, welded to the pipe ends, have holes drilled in them containing bolts suitable for the pipe, based on static calculations performed using computers. These bolts are hardened and galvanized. The bolts are screwed into the ball using galvanized nuts.
The balls are specially manufactured from ST 60 steel by hot forging. They can have various diameters such as 0.60, 0.90, and 0.130 mm depending on the angle. Drilling must be done with an accuracy of 1/10 of the total degree. Otherwise, the axes of the pipes and the axes of the holes will not align, and these two elements cannot be screwed together. After drilling, the balls are coated with 0.25 micron galvanization.
The system includes purlin elements that provide the necessary slope to the roof. These elements consist of box and pipe profiles and are manufactured at the required height according to the desired slope. The pipes and purlins are cleaned with metalfost, thinned with thinner, and then primed with maxifiller primer. Afterwards, they are painted with oven paint and left in an oven at 120 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes. This is the general process of producing the Space Frame System .
Space Frame System Features
Space frame roof systems differ from traditional roofs in many ways. These roofs offer significant advantages compared to traditional roofs. Space frame systems generally include the following features and advantages:
Economical: Space frame systems have a very short installation time. Because the installation time is so short, the increase in construction costs that may occur over time is eliminated, and there is no need for escalation. Space frame systems are much more economical than flat frame systems.
Aesthetics: Space frame systems add an aesthetic touch to structures due to their pleasing appearance. They can be finished with powder coating, galvanizing, nickel plating, or chrome plating. Nickel-plated or chrome-plated applications can be used decoratively in exhibition stands.
Compatibility with installations: Ventilation, air conditioning, electrical and other installation ducts can easily pass through the space frame roof in all directions. In addition, homogeneous lighting can be provided through the spheres in the lower section.
Easy assembly: Space frame systems are extremely easy to assemble and can be done entirely on the ground or in the air.
Ease of transport: Space system connectors and nodal points are shipped to construction sites in our company's special packaging that will not damage the paint and coatings.
Reusability: Since the space frame system is fully prefabricated, it can be disassembled and relocated.
Advantages of Space Frame Systems
Previously, the roofs of factories, warehouses, garages, gymnasiums, and similar structures were covered with a truss system, to which purlins and wind and seismic bracing were attached before the roof covering. However, with the widespread use of computers, the use of space frame roof systems, for which static calculations can be performed very easily, has become common.
Space frame systems are generally hyperstatic (highly durable) roof systems composed of pyramids. This system, which covers the structure like a shell, has the following advantages:
-For the same opening and arm span, the frame system provides a 30% saving in main materials.
-It can cover even openings that are impossible to close with a scissor system.
-The roof height can be kept very small. This increases the ratio of interior to exterior volume.
-It can be manufactured using prefabricated or welded methods. With both methods, the manufacturing and construction time is much shorter compared to the truss system.
-When constructed with prefabricated elements, these elements are painted with oven paint or galvanized at the factory. This allows for the creation of a roof that is very well protected against rust.
– Ventilation, electrical, and plumbing pipes can easily pass through the space frame roof . Therefore, the roof can serve as a support for these or, if present, for elements such as suspended ceilings.
-The response of a truss roof to temperature changes is very limited. Displacements caused by temperature changes are much smaller compared to a truss system.
-The space frame system provides a much more aesthetic and homogeneous appearance compared to the scissor system.
Where are space frame roofs used?
Space Frame SystemSpace frame systems ( space frame roofs ) are widely preferred in many areas. These areas generally include warehouses, factories, swimming pools, indoor sports halls, aircraft hangars, gas stations, grandstands, car dealerships, and shipyards.