ARCHITECTURAL MEMBRANE STRUCTURE

 
An architectural membrane structure is a building made entirely or partially by tensile membranes, implementing a prestigious technology that has been used on major international constructions such as London’s Olympic Stadium (2012), Marseille’s Olympic Stadium (2013) or Kuala Lumpur’s Formula One circuit (2002).
 

At SMC2 we have democratized the application of architectural membrane structures to sport and leisure buildings such as multi-purpose sports halls, covered outdoor learning areas, covered playgrounds, covered tennis courts and other leisure structures to allow the entire community to benefit from the advantages of this unique construction material.
 
DESIGN STANDARDS AND PROPERTIES
 

Berlin Olympic Stadium This stadium was not built by SMC2, it is merely cited as an example

Berlin Olympic Stadium
This stadium was not built by SMC2, it is merely cited as an example

Tensile membranes are appreciated for their translucence, freedom of shape and technical performances.
 
During day time, the translucence of the membrane allows the use of natural light without glare and that significantly reduces the running expenses of our buildings.
 
A significant mechanical resistance and stability as well as a long lifespan are ensured by giving to the membrane an inverted double curve. The shape of SMC2 building’s roofs comply to the tensile membrane design standards and contributes to the reduction of sound reverberation for an increased acoustic quality.
 
At SMC2 we use tensile membranes either on steel or timber frames and as they are lightweight and recyclable, our structures are cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Our roofs and facades do not require any maintenance and are modular in design.
 
TECHNICAL PROPERTIES
 
The tensile membranes are constituted of a polyester mesh coated with PVC and a dirt-repellent varnish. On average, their properties are as follows :

  • Thickness: 1-2mm
  • Weight: 700 -1,500g/m2
  • Traction resistance 300-800 kg/5cm in both directions
  • Colour: white or specified colour
  • Translucence 5-30%
  • Fluoride polymer based dirt-repellent varnish
  • 15-year product guarantee

 
 
SMC2 building and structures are designed to comply with each specific Australian standard from the Building Code of Australia and from other applicable regulations:

  • The AS/NZS 1170.2:2011 to set out procedures for determining wind speeds and resulting wind actions to be used in the structural design.
  • The AS/NZS 1170.0 which specifies general procedures and criteria for the structural design of a building or structure in limit states format.
  • The AS 4100-1998 to set out minimum requirements for the design, fabrication, erection, and modification of steelwork in structures in accordance with the limit states design method
  • Fabric testing standards
  • Fire testing standards
  • Workers Safety Regulations (Personal Protection Devices etc)