Arch Space Frame


An arch space frame is a structural system that combines the load-bearing efficiency of an arch with the lightweight, rigid properties of a space frame. This hybrid design is used to create large-span structures that can withstand significant loads while minimizing material usage.


Key Features of Arch Space Frame Structures

1. Structural Composition

  • Curved Arch + Space Grid: The structure consists of a three-dimensional truss following a curved (arch) profile.

  • Interconnected Elements: Made of linear members (struts) connected at nodes, forming triangular or polygonal units.

  • Materials: Typically steel or aluminum for strength and lightness; sometimes reinforced concrete or composites.

2. Load Distribution

  • Arches naturally transfer loads as compression forces along their curve.

  • Space frames distribute loads in three dimensions, enhancing stability.

  • The combination allows for longer spans with fewer supports compared to traditional arches.

3. Types of Arch Space Frames

  • Single-Layer Arch Space Frame: Simpler, used for moderate spans (e.g., canopies, small roofs).

  • Double-Layer Arch Space Frame: More rigid, used for large-span structures (e.g., stadiums, hangars).

  • Tied Arch Space Frame: Uses tension cables or ties to counteract outward thrust, reducing foundation loads.


Advantages of Arch Space Frame Structures

Large Spans Without Intermediate Supports – Ideal for stadiums, airports, and bridges.
Lightweight Yet Strong – High strength-to-weight ratio reduces material costs.
Aesthetic & Functional – Smooth curves allow for visually striking designs.
Modular Construction – Prefabricated components speed up assembly.
Good Resistance to Dynamic Loads – Performs well under wind, snow, and seismic forces.


Applications

  • Stadiums & Arenas (e.g., Olympic stadiums, indoor sports halls)

  • Airport Terminals & Train Stations (e.g., large-span roofing)

  • Bridges & Viaducts (arch-space frame hybrid bridges)

  • Exhibition Halls & Convention Centers

  • Industrial Sheds & Aircraft Hangars


Famous Examples

  1. Bird’s Nest Stadium (Beijing, China) – Combines a steel space frame with an arched lattice shell.

  2. Milwaukee Art Museum (USA) – Features a movable arched space frame roof.

  3. Singapore Sports Hub – Uses arch-supported space frames for its domed roof.


Comparison: Arch Space Frame vs. Dome Space Frame

FeatureArch Space FrameDome Space Frame
ShapeCurved (semi-circular or parabolic)Spherical or geodesic
Load TransferPrimarily compression along the archMulti-directional load distribution
Span CapacityVery large spans (200m+)Large spans (100m-300m)
ApplicationsBridges, hangars, stadiumsPlanetariums, greenhouses, exhibition domes

Conclusion

Arch space frames are an advanced structural solution for long-span, lightweight, and aesthetically pleasing designs. They merge the best of arch action and space truss efficiency, making them ideal for modern architecture and engineering.


Specifications:
main steel frameH section steel beam and columns, painted or hot dip galvanizing, galvanized C section or steel pipe
Secondary frameHot dip galvanized C purlin, steel bracing , tie bar , knee brace , edge cover etc.
Roof panelSteel sheet, Alum-Zinc sheet , Alumnium sheet, EPS sandwich panel,glass fiber sandwich panel,rock wool sandwich panel,and PU sandwich panel etc.
Wall panelSandwich Panel or Corrugated Steel Sheet etc.
Tie RodCircular Steel Tube
BraceRound Bar
Knee BraceAngle Steel
Roof GutterColor Steel Sheet, Alum-zinc sheet, Gal. sheet, Stainless steel
Drawings & Quotation:
(1) Customized design is welcomed. We will quote for you promptly.
(2) In order to give you an exactly quotation and drawings, please let us know the length, width, eave height and local weather.
The above is for reference only,the specific required material components according to customer needs.


Product Parameters


An arch space frame is a structural system that combines the load-bearing efficiency of an arch with the lightweight, rigid properties of a space frame. This hybrid design is used to create large-span structures that can withstand significant loads while minimizing material usage.


Key Features of Arch Space Frame Structures

1. Structural Composition

  • Curved Arch + Space Grid: The structure consists of a three-dimensional truss following a curved (arch) profile.

  • Interconnected Elements: Made of linear members (struts) connected at nodes, forming triangular or polygonal units.

  • Materials: Typically steel or aluminum for strength and lightness; sometimes reinforced concrete or composites.

2. Load Distribution

  • Arches naturally transfer loads as compression forces along their curve.

  • Space frames distribute loads in three dimensions, enhancing stability.

  • The combination allows for longer spans with fewer supports compared to traditional arches.

3. Types of Arch Space Frames

  • Single-Layer Arch Space Frame: Simpler, used for moderate spans (e.g., canopies, small roofs).

  • Double-Layer Arch Space Frame: More rigid, used for large-span structures (e.g., stadiums, hangars).

  • Tied Arch Space Frame: Uses tension cables or ties to counteract outward thrust, reducing foundation loads.


Advantages of Arch Space Frame Structures

Large Spans Without Intermediate Supports – Ideal for stadiums, airports, and bridges.
Lightweight Yet Strong – High strength-to-weight ratio reduces material costs.
Aesthetic & Functional – Smooth curves allow for visually striking designs.
Modular Construction – Prefabricated components speed up assembly.
Good Resistance to Dynamic Loads – Performs well under wind, snow, and seismic forces.


Applications

  • Stadiums & Arenas (e.g., Olympic stadiums, indoor sports halls)

  • Airport Terminals & Train Stations (e.g., large-span roofing)

  • Bridges & Viaducts (arch-space frame hybrid bridges)

  • Exhibition Halls & Convention Centers

  • Industrial Sheds & Aircraft Hangars


Famous Examples

  1. Bird’s Nest Stadium (Beijing, China) – Combines a steel space frame with an arched lattice shell.

  2. Milwaukee Art Museum (USA) – Features a movable arched space frame roof.

  3. Singapore Sports Hub – Uses arch-supported space frames for its domed roof.


Comparison: Arch Space Frame vs. Dome Space Frame

FeatureArch Space FrameDome Space Frame
ShapeCurved (semi-circular or parabolic)Spherical or geodesic
Load TransferPrimarily compression along the archMulti-directional load distribution
Span CapacityVery large spans (200m+)Large spans (100m-300m)
ApplicationsBridges, hangars, stadiumsPlanetariums, greenhouses, exhibition domes

Conclusion

Arch space frames are an advanced structural solution for long-span, lightweight, and aesthetically pleasing designs. They merge the best of arch action and space truss efficiency, making them ideal for modern architecture and engineering.


Specifications:
main steel frameH section steel beam and columns, painted or hot dip galvanizing, galvanized C section or steel pipe
Secondary frameHot dip galvanized C purlin, steel bracing , tie bar , knee brace , edge cover etc.
Roof panelSteel sheet, Alum-Zinc sheet , Alumnium sheet, EPS sandwich panel,glass fiber sandwich panel,rock wool sandwich panel,and PU sandwich panel etc.
Wall panelSandwich Panel or Corrugated Steel Sheet etc.
Tie RodCircular Steel Tube
BraceRound Bar
Knee BraceAngle Steel
Roof GutterColor Steel Sheet, Alum-zinc sheet, Gal. sheet, Stainless steel
Drawings & Quotation:
(1) Customized design is welcomed. We will quote for you promptly.
(2) In order to give you an exactly quotation and drawings, please let us know the length, width, eave height and local weather.
The above is for reference only,the specific required material components according to customer needs.


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FAQ

Q: How can I get a quote for my project?
A: You can contact me anytime, via WeChat, WhatsApp, Email, or phone. I will get back to you as soon as possible.
Email: jack@xingyasteel.com
Phone: +86 17305413116
WeChat: 17305413116
WhatsApp: +86 17305413116

Q: How long can I get the price?
A: If possible, please provide project CAD drawings, pictures or specific requirements. We usually quote within 6 hours. If you want to get a quote as soon as possible, please let us know via WeChat, WhatsApp or email so that we can prioritize your inquiry.

Q: Can we visit your factory?
A: Of course, we welcome you to visit our factory or production line on site to understand our strength and quality. We will arrange a professional team to serve you. You just need to send your itinerary and leave the rest to us.

Q: Do you provide customized product services?
A: Of course, our professional R&D team can design and produce the products you need according to your specifications and drawings. For example: special size, special control, OEM, etc.

Q: Where is the loading port?
A: Normally, we ship from Tianjin Port, Qingdao Port and Shanghai Port. Of course, we can also accept the port you specify.

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