Types of Steel Space Frames & Their Key Differences


Types of Steel Space Frames & Their Key Differences

Steel space frames are categorized into 6 main types based on their geometric configuration, structural behavior, and construction methods. Here's a detailed technical comparison:

1. Classification by Geometric Configuration

TypeStructureSpan CapacityKey FeatureBest For
Flat Double-Layer GridTwo parallel flat layers connected by web members30-150mUniform load distributionIndustrial roofs, hangars
Curved Barrel VaultSingle-curvature arched surface50-200mNatural drainageStadiums, atriums
Spherical DomeDouble-curvature hemispherical structure60-300mOmnidirectional stabilityPlanetariums, exhibition centers
Hybrid Space FrameCombination of flat/curved sections100-500mCustom complex shapesAirport terminals, landmark buildings
Free-Form Space FrameNon-geometric organic shapesVariesArchitectural expressionArtistic structures, pavilions
TensegrityCompression members + tension cables50-250mUltra-lightweightTemporary structures, bridges

2. Classification by Node Connection System

Connection TypeJoining MethodAdvantagesLimitations
Mero SystemSpherical nodes with threaded connectorsQuick assemblyLimited to standard angles
Nodus SystemCubical nodes with bolted connectionsHigh rigidityHigher material cost
TriodeticAluminum nodes with press-fit connectionsCorrosion-resistantLower load capacity
Welded NodesOn-site full-penetration weldingMaximum strengthRequires skilled labor
Space DeckPrefabricated pyramidal unitsModular constructionLess design flexibility

3. Classification by Member Arrangement

PatternGeometryEfficiencyTypical Use
Square Pyramid4:1 member ratioGood for flat gridsWarehouse roofs
Octahedron6:1 member ratioHigh torsional stiffnessLong-span canopies
Tetrahedron3:1 member ratioLightest configurationTemporary structures
Diagonal GridX-pattern websBest for curved surfacesStadium roofs

4. Technical Comparison of Major Types

ParameterFlat GridBarrel VaultSpherical Dome
Max Span150m200m300m
Steel Weight50-80kg/m²60-90kg/m²40-70kg/m²
Erection TimeFastestModerateSlowest
Wind ResistanceMediumHighHighest
Cost/m²$200-400$300-500$400-700

5. Selection Criteria

  1. Span Requirements

    • <100m: Flat double-layer grid

    • 100-200m: Barrel vault

    • 200m: Spherical dome

  2. Load Conditions

    • Heavy uniform loads: Square pyramid grid

    • Dynamic wind loads: Curved configurations

    • Point loads: Octahedral pattern

  3. Aesthetic Needs

    • Modern minimalism: Flat grid

    • Organic forms: Free-form tensegrity

    • Iconic architecture: Hybrid systems

  4. Budget Constraints

    • Most economical: Standard flat grid

    • Mid-range: Barrel vaults

    • Premium: Custom free-form designs

6. Notable Project Examples

  • Beijing National Stadium ("Bird's Nest"): Hybrid space frame

  • Eden Project Biomes: Hexagonal geodesic dome

  • Denver Airport Roof: Tensioned membrane + space frame

  • Louvre Abu Dhabi: Complex free-form space frame

Key Engineering Considerations

  • Deflection Control: Spherical domes outperform flat grids by 30-40%

  • Connection Design: Mero nodes allow ±15° adjustability

  • Thermal Movement: Requires 10-15mm expansion joints per 30m span

  • Corrosion Protection: Hot-dip galvanizing recommended for coastal areas


Product Parameters


Types of Steel Space Frames & Their Key Differences

Steel space frames are categorized into 6 main types based on their geometric configuration, structural behavior, and construction methods. Here's a detailed technical comparison:

1. Classification by Geometric Configuration

TypeStructureSpan CapacityKey FeatureBest For
Flat Double-Layer GridTwo parallel flat layers connected by web members30-150mUniform load distributionIndustrial roofs, hangars
Curved Barrel VaultSingle-curvature arched surface50-200mNatural drainageStadiums, atriums
Spherical DomeDouble-curvature hemispherical structure60-300mOmnidirectional stabilityPlanetariums, exhibition centers
Hybrid Space FrameCombination of flat/curved sections100-500mCustom complex shapesAirport terminals, landmark buildings
Free-Form Space FrameNon-geometric organic shapesVariesArchitectural expressionArtistic structures, pavilions
TensegrityCompression members + tension cables50-250mUltra-lightweightTemporary structures, bridges

2. Classification by Node Connection System

Connection TypeJoining MethodAdvantagesLimitations
Mero SystemSpherical nodes with threaded connectorsQuick assemblyLimited to standard angles
Nodus SystemCubical nodes with bolted connectionsHigh rigidityHigher material cost
TriodeticAluminum nodes with press-fit connectionsCorrosion-resistantLower load capacity
Welded NodesOn-site full-penetration weldingMaximum strengthRequires skilled labor
Space DeckPrefabricated pyramidal unitsModular constructionLess design flexibility

3. Classification by Member Arrangement

PatternGeometryEfficiencyTypical Use
Square Pyramid4:1 member ratioGood for flat gridsWarehouse roofs
Octahedron6:1 member ratioHigh torsional stiffnessLong-span canopies
Tetrahedron3:1 member ratioLightest configurationTemporary structures
Diagonal GridX-pattern websBest for curved surfacesStadium roofs

4. Technical Comparison of Major Types

ParameterFlat GridBarrel VaultSpherical Dome
Max Span150m200m300m
Steel Weight50-80kg/m²60-90kg/m²40-70kg/m²
Erection TimeFastestModerateSlowest
Wind ResistanceMediumHighHighest
Cost/m²$200-400$300-500$400-700

5. Selection Criteria

  1. Span Requirements

    • <100m: Flat double-layer grid

    • 100-200m: Barrel vault

    • 200m: Spherical dome

  2. Load Conditions

    • Heavy uniform loads: Square pyramid grid

    • Dynamic wind loads: Curved configurations

    • Point loads: Octahedral pattern

  3. Aesthetic Needs

    • Modern minimalism: Flat grid

    • Organic forms: Free-form tensegrity

    • Iconic architecture: Hybrid systems

  4. Budget Constraints

    • Most economical: Standard flat grid

    • Mid-range: Barrel vaults

    • Premium: Custom free-form designs

6. Notable Project Examples

  • Beijing National Stadium ("Bird's Nest"): Hybrid space frame

  • Eden Project Biomes: Hexagonal geodesic dome

  • Denver Airport Roof: Tensioned membrane + space frame

  • Louvre Abu Dhabi: Complex free-form space frame

Key Engineering Considerations

  • Deflection Control: Spherical domes outperform flat grids by 30-40%

  • Connection Design: Mero nodes allow ±15° adjustability

  • Thermal Movement: Requires 10-15mm expansion joints per 30m span

  • Corrosion Protection: Hot-dip galvanizing recommended for coastal areas


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