Although the two terms are often used interchangeably, technically Tensile Structures and Tent Structures are not the same thing.

Although grammatically speaking, only one letter distinguishes them, they are two architectural projects at opposite ends of the spectrum, built with different techniques and therefore with different histories and uses.

Let's try to clarify the similarities and differences between these two construction systems to better understand which product is best suited to meet your needs.

IS IT CALLED TENSOSTRUCTURES OR TENDOSTRUCTURES?

There's no right or wrong term; it all depends on what we're referring to and what we want to express.

You will soon understand what the differences are between a Tensostruttura and a Tendostruttura.

WHAT IS A TENSILE STRUCTURE? 

As the word itself suggests, tensile structures are structures made with materials held in place by tension.

A structure cannot be considered to be in static equilibrium* if such equilibrium does not exist for each of the parts into which it can be decomposed; this does not mean that tensile structures are not stable - quite the opposite - but in this case a force intervenes to balance the whole, namely tension.

Obviously, we are not talking about precarious stability, but simply a different anchoring technique.

Tensile structures include tensile structures , decks , roofs (mostly temporary) and self-supporting* structures which are always isostatic* , made up of a textile part with edge cables at the perimeter, anchoring joints and pillars.

There are different types of tensile structures ; generally speaking, cables, tie rods, or beams support fabric, polyester, PVC, or sheet metal covers, but there are also exceptional and experimental cases where different materials are used.

Japanese architect Shigeru Ban , for example, is famous for his research in the field of tensile structures, especially regarding their construction using inexpensive materials such as cardboard or bamboo.

Tensile structures are a relatively recent type of construction, made possible by calculation methodologies first developed by the Russian engineer Vladimir Shukhov in the late 1800s.

After the Second World War, in 1958, the famous Sidney Myer Music Bowl was built in Melbourne, which gave rise to a true architectural style , much loved not only for its functionality, but also and above all for its graceful grandeur and its sinuous, fluid forms.

To date, the most famous stable tensile structures in the world are: the Millennium Dome in London, the Pontiac Silverdome, Denver International Airport and Mecca Airport.

WHAT IS A TENT STRUCTURE? 

Unlike the Tensostructure , in which the complicity between the parts - the "textile" part and the pillars - is essential for the stability of the structure, in the Tendostructure the covering has no structural function, the "textile" part rests on the pillars only as a covering.

Commonly also called “tents”, Tent Structures are essentially made up of two parts (separate and not dependent on each other): a substructure of cables and pillars (in aluminium or steel) and a covering in coated textile material.

We have seen that tensile structures are isostatic* , while tent structures are hyperstatic* , self-balanced architectures that unload the vertical load, that is, their own weight (including snow obviously), to the ground.

Once assembled, the tarpaulin, or textile part, is very resistant, waterproof, and also plays an important role in maintaining internal heat.

A tent structure can cover even very large spaces, withstanding bad weather, wind, and even snow loads, while remaining very lightweight and easy to assemble.

The tent structure can also be easily illuminated—with an internal lighting system—and furnished as needed. It can be heated to provide protection from rain and cold, as well as shelter from the sun and summer heat.

The Tent Structure is probably the best outdoor remedy against the vagaries of the weather.

TENSILE STRUCTURES AND TENSIONERS, TWO DIFFERENT USES

As you might imagine, tensile structures are bold architectural projects that require specialized engineering design. They are generally site- specific* projects , meaning they are specifically designed for the available space and specific usage needs. Due to their complexity, they are therefore primarily chosen for permanent installations.

Even a single flaw in the textile part of the tensile structure can affect the performance of the entire project, which therefore must be studied in the smallest details starting from the choice of materials.

Tent structures , on the other hand, although still complex construction systems , can be assembled and dismantled more easily - which is why many rental companies prefer them - they are more flexible and allow the replacement of even just some parts in the event of breakage or for the need to customize the tent.

In short, as with any project, what you need is essential to the outcome you are looking for.

Whether you're looking for long- or short-term rental , our marquees are definitely the right choice for you. Whether you're an event planner, a municipal organization, a professional, or even a private individual planning a garden party, Amaranto Idea will help you find the perfect solution, recommending the best product for your specific needs or designing one specifically for you.

STABLE OR TEMPORARY TENT STRUCTURES? 

The tent structures can be assembled and dismantled in a relatively short time and are weatherproof, snowproof, and windproof; this makes them ideal for rental at festivals, events (public or private), parties, and weddings.

Very often, the foresighted choice to rent a temporary marquee allows you to enjoy activities that would otherwise be impossible in winter or when it rains.

Sports tents and covers for sports facilities are essential for the preservation of riding stables , tennis courts, basketball courts and, above all, padel courts.

We have also created specific structures specifically for padel : motorized, fixed, opening padel covers and also the new ovalgeo padel.

In other cases, a stable industrial tent structure can be preserved over the long term, as is the case for airports or for waste storage, where it is essential.

Another very important aspect should not be underestimated:

Whether we are talking about permanent tensile structures or temporary tensile structures , the particular resistance of the materials and structures means that today there is a thriving market for used ones too.

Buying a used tent structure allows you to recycle materials, still in excellent condition, without waste and saving, taking advantage of excellent OFFERS , increasingly advantageous!

To recap… TenSostrutture are stable architectural structures that exploit tension to achieve stability, while TenDostrutture are fixed or temporary systems that are easy to assemble, yet extremely resistant.

To date, Amaranto Idea has built and assembled (with free assembly always) 2695 Tent Structures and we intend to continue doing so!

Our Tent Structures use an extruded aluminum STRUCTURE (6061-T6), 850 g/m2 PVC cover sheets and 650 g/m2 PVC side sheets.

Take advantage of our experience and contact us now for a free quote!

QUALITY STARTS WITH A CHOICE, CHOOSE AMARANTOIDEA.

Useful glossary:

• SELF-SUPPORTING A structure that supports itself, thus allowing the elimination or reduction of support structures
• ISOSTATIC In building science, refers to a system of material bodies that has constraints in a number strictly necessary for stability.
• HYPERSTATIC In applied mechanics and in structural science, a system of rigid bodies to which a greater number of constraints are applied than is necessary to guarantee their stability.
• SITE SPECIFIC (literal translation: site-specific) The English term is generally used in contemporary art and creativity to indicate an intervention that is conceived and inserted in a specific location.
• STATIC EQUILIBRIUM is the state of rest of an elastic body when, by applying to it a system of external forces that is balanced and significantly constant over time, the internal stresses do not exceed the elastic limit.
• TENSION The action of stretching and the state of what is stretched

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