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Steel Space Structures in Power Plants — Supporting Heavy Loads and Complex Systems

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 In modern power generation facilities — from thermal and hydro plants to large-scale renewable energy complexes — the demand for robust yet adaptable structural systems is increasing. Steel space structures offer engineers and builders the flexibility, strength, and efficiency needed to support complex mechanical systems and heavy loads while optimizing material use and spatial performance. 1. Functional Requirements of Power Plant Structures Power plants are not ordinary industrial buildings. They must accommodate turbines, boilers, cooling systems, and control equipment, all of which require high vertical clearance and precise load distribution. The roof and supporting system need to: Handle extremely high static and dynamic loads from heavy machinery and cranes. Maintain large column-free spaces for equipment movement and installation. Allow integration of ducts, pipes, and cable trays without structural interference. Ensure durability under vibration, heat, a...
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New Trends in Sports Complexes: How Does Space Structure Reshape City Landmarks?

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 Sports complexes are gradually evolving from single-purpose stadiums to multifunctional spaces integrating sports, commerce, cultural tourism, and urban exhibitions. To achieve this diverse layout, the architectural structure must be both flexible and iconic. Consequently, more and more projects are choosing to utilize space structures. 1. Wide-span Design, Accommodating Multifunctional Utilities Sports complexes typically incorporate diverse functions such as gymnasiums, performance halls, shopping areas, and leisure zones. Space structures provide large, column-free spaces, facilitating flexible zoning and future renovations. The same venue can easily transition between different uses (e.g., sports events → concerts → exhibitions). 2. Innovative Design, Enhanced City Image Space structures support a variety of architectural forms, including curves, domes, and streamlined roofs. Combined with glass curtain walls or membrane structures, they can create a city landmark. They offer...
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Wind Load & Steel Space Frames: Designing for High-Wind Regions

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 When large-scale buildings utilize steel space frames, wind loads must be a critical design consideration for projects located in coastal areas, typhoon zones, high plateaus, or regions prone to severe storms. This article outlines key design principles, common misconceptions, and engineering recommendations for steel space frames in high-wind environments, helping you ensure structural safety and practical usability. 1. Why Wind Load Matters for Space Frames Increased wind speed directly amplifies both the pressure and suction forces exerted on structures, particularly in large-span, lightweight, and extended-span configurations. Wind loads on space frame structures involve not only static pressures but also vortex-induced forces, flutter effects, dynamic loads, and fatigue impacts. Neglecting the combined effects of wind loads with other loads (snow, seismic, live loads, high-altitude wind speed variations) during design significantly increases structural safety risks. 2. Key De...
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Fire Protection & Steel Space Frames: How to Safeguard Your Structure Against Fire

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 Steel space structures offer the advantages of long spans, lightweight construction, and high strength. However, in a fire environment, steel's strength rapidly decreases as temperatures rise. Without proper fire protection design and materials, structural stability and safety can be seriously compromised. This article will introduce the fire protection principles, common fire protection methods, design considerations, and practical recommendations for steel space frames. Fire Behavior of Steel & Why Protection Matters Steel's strength decreases significantly at high temperatures . For example, at temperatures of approximately 550-600°C, steel's yield strength may only be approximately 40-60% of its original strength. Fire protection codes typically require structural steel to provide a fire resistance rating of a certain number of hours (e.g., 1 hour, 2 hours, or more) to ensure evacuation, fire control system response, and prevent premature structural failure. Commo...
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Steel Space Frames in Cold Climates: What to Know About Insulation, Snow Loads & Moisture Management

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 Steel structures are widely used in cold regions (those with snow accumulation, frozen ground, and severe cold weather). However, these environments present additional challenges: snow load, heat loss, condensation, and ice damage. If these factors are not considered during the design phase, subsequent maintenance and operating costs can be very high. This article will introduce key design considerations to address these issues, ensuring your steel space frame performs optimally and cost-effectively in cold climates. Key Factors for Cold-Climate Steel Space Frame Design 1. Snow Load & Roof Geometry In areas with snow accumulation, roof snow load is the primary factor. The steeper the roof slope, the more snow slides off, reducing the load caused by snow accumulation. Complex roofs (with gables, valleys, and depressions) are prone to snow accumulation, creating additional stress. The supporting structure (truss or space frame support spacing/member strength) should be calculat...
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Roof Drainage & Snow Melt Strategies for Steel Space Frames: Keeping Your Roof Safe Through Winter

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Steel space structure roofs offer strength and spanability, but during snowy seasons and cold climates, inadequate drainage and snow melt management can lead to structural stress imbalances, water infiltration, ice buildup, and even damage. This article outlines key strategies for snow melt and drainage in steel space frame roofs, helping ensure safe and reliable design and maintenance. Key Challenges in Roof Drainage & Snow Melt Snowmelt Backflow and Ice Dams: When snow melts on the roof, cold temperatures at the eaves can cause water to freeze at the edge, blocking drainage. Frozen and Clogged Drainage Systems: Gutters and downspouts become blocked by ice, causing melted snow to accumulate and increasing roof load and leakage risks. Insufficient Roof Slope or Flat Roof Drainage: Low slopes or flat surfaces cause meltwater to pool (“ponding”), potentially leading to structural deformation or localized drainage issues. Hazards from Snow Avalanches: Snow masses sliding down steep ...
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Designing Steel Space Frames for Snow Loads & Cold Environments: Key Principles You Must Know

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 In cold regions or areas with frequent snowfall, snow loads and low temperatures are critical factors that must be carefully addressed in the design of steel truss structures . Neglecting these factors can lead to structural deformation, leaks, excessive snow accumulation, or even collapse. This article will outline how to design steel truss structures under snow load and cold environmental conditions to enhance safety and service life. 1. Snow Load Basics What is Snow Load: Refers to the vertical load exerted by accumulated snow on the horizontal projected area of a roof or structure. Snow loads are categorized as ground snow loads and roof snow loads, with the more stringent value typically applied. Code Standards: Numerous codes (e.g., TS EN 1991-1-3 / Eurocode 1-3) specify snow load calculation methods, accounting for factors like climate zones, roof slopes, and roof configurations. Load Combinations: Snow loads are typically combined with dead loads (self-weight, roofing ma...
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