The selection of installation methods for large-span steel grid structures (such as stadiums, exhibition halls, and factory buildings) primarily depends on factors including span size, grid weight, site conditions, mechanical equipment availability, schedule requirements, and safety considerations.
I. Common installation methods include the following categories:
1. High-altitude assembly method
1.1 Method: Individual assembly of members and spherical nodes at elevated heights.
1.2 Characteristics: Suitable for small-to-medium span grid structures generally under 40m.
2. Integral Lifting Method
2.1 Method: Assemble the entire structure or large sections on the ground, then lift to design elevation using hydraulic synchronized lifting or jacks before connecting to supports.
2.2 Characteristics: Suitable for medium-to-large span grid structures between 40m and 100m.
3. Whole-Structure Hoisting Method
3.1 Method: Assemble the entire structure or large sections on the ground. Utilize large crawler cranes, tower cranes, or multiple cranes working in coordination to hoist the entire structure into position.
3.2 Characteristics: Suitable for: Grid structures with spans around 40m to 80m, where the site is open and cranes can access.
4. Integral Sliding Method
4.1 Method: Assemble the space frame on the ground or at a lower elevation, place it on temporary supports, and slide it horizontally to the design position using guide rails or roller traction systems before final positioning.
4.2 Features: Suitable for: Ultra-large span roofs exceeding 80m, such as sports arenas and aircraft hangars.
5. Integral Jacking Method
5.1 Method: Assemble the space frame on one side of the ground. Gradually jack it horizontally using hydraulic jacks until it reaches the designated position.
5.2 Characteristics: Suitable for: Ultra-large span (over 100m) roof structures with open sites.
6. Segmented Lifting or Hoisting Method
6.1 Method: Divide the space frame into large units, assemble them on the ground, then lift or hoist each segment to the design elevation before final assembly in the air.
6.2 Features: Suitable for spans: 40m–120m, especially when lifting equipment is limited.
II. Selection Principles
1. Span < 40m → High-altitude bulk lifting or segmented lifting;
2. Span 40m–80m → Whole-structure lifting or whole-structure hoisting;
3. Span 80m–120m → Whole-structure hoisting, whole-structure sliding, or segmented lifting;
4. Span >120m (Extra-large span) → Whole-structure sliding, jacking, or segmented hoisting.
III. Advantages and Disadvantages of Various Installation Methods
Thank you for your interest in this article.
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