TECHNICAL TEXTILES FOR MEMBRANE CONSTRUCTIONS
PVC-coated polyester fabrics
Top notch quality, tear resistant polyester fabrics – with a synthetic coating on both sides to prevent soiling – and furnished with a surface lacquer (acrylic, PVDF). Architecture fabrics made from PVC/polyester fulfil the highest standards in terms of quality. The high flexibility, the outstanding UV and weather resistant features and the light transmission, in particular in the case of light colours, make it possible to create spectacular and modern architectural structures.
Fields of applications: textile shell structures and façades, sail and tent constructions
PTFE-coated glass fabrics
Apart from synthetic coated polyester fabrics, PTFE-coated glass fabrics are used for specific fields. This is the case when the client desires a maximum self-cleaning effect or when the building authorities require a non-flammable material.
Fields of application: stadium constructions, textile façades, sails and tent constructions
ETFE-Foils
ETFE (Ethylene-Tetrafluoroethylene) is an innovative material, which is used in the construction industry in form of extruded foils with a thickness between 0.1 and 0.3 mm (100 to 300 µm). Since this material is not fabric-reinforced, ETFE-foils are used in form of air supported cushions. The foil cushions are equipped with several air chambers in order to achieve low U values.
The heat produced by sunlight can be reduced by printing the foil cushions. The so-called tyres are held in shape in the cushion (approx. 300 to 800 Pa) with air pressure. The span of each of the cushions without supporting structure is about 4.50 m. Supporting-air supply, as well as the control, are carried out almost fully automatically. ETFE-foil roof constructions are available in single or multi-layer design, and they are also used as façade edges. Due to the light weight, they are economical and heat insulated cushion constructions that can be used for atrium areas or for autonomous roof constructions. Our references show the broad range of applications.
MANUFACTURING PROCESS
Top quality products are a prerequisite for the highest perfection in all value-added steps.
Based on the geometry required, layout models are developed with a special FEM software program. Biaxial tests of the fabric are carried out to ensure the static requirements in terms of tensile behaviour. Modern cutters cut the single templates, which are then welded to each other. The machines and tools ensure a high-quality seam connection. A comprehensive quality assurance programme, and an internal testing laboratory guaranty consistent quality.
Modern welding procedures to ensure high seams resistance
The hot air and hot wedge welding procedures are well known in the tent construction area, but they are not suitable for mechanical or pneumatical permanent tensed constructions.
For PVC-coated polyester fabrics the high frequency welding method is used. The processability of silicon coated glass fabric is comparable, whereas additional welding aids are used in the seams area.
Glass fibre fabrics with PTFE-coating is usually welded with heating beams. The right adjustment of the parameters, temperature, welding time, pressure and cooling by applying pressure guaranty optimum seams. Due to the bending sensitivity of the material, it is important to be careful with the material and for its use in replacement and adapted machine technology: guarantor for good quality.
Wafer-thin ETFE-foils are processed with continuous heat impulse welding procedures or with gentle laser technologies. Computer programmes monitor the welding parameters of this sensitive material continuously.
SERVICE
BUILDING MAINTENANCE
Repair, maintenance and service
Owners and operators are often responsible for the maintenance of the membrane structure/ETFE construction and have to ensure the optimum life span of their constructions. We are glad to be your partners and to offer our maintenance and repair services. Our service range includes inspection, cleaning, maintenance and repair including the corresponding documentation.
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