Industrial Fabric Shelters, also known as tension fabric buildings or container shelters, are a cost-effective and versatile solution for a wide range of industrial applications. These structures are made from high-strength fabric and durable frames, providing a protected and climate-controlled environment for a variety of uses. From warehousing and storage to agriculture and mining, industrial Fabric Shelters have become increasingly popular due to their flexibility and efficiency.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 uses for Fabric Shelters, from their applications in manufacturing and production to their uses on mine sites, as well as their growing popularity in the military, transportation, and logistics industries. Whether you’re looking to expand your existing operations or seeking a temporary solution, Fabric Shelters may be the perfect solution for your company.
1. Warehousing
Fabric Shelters are an intelligent, modern solution for warehousing needs, as they offer a large, clear span internal space that maximises storage potential. With no internal columns or supports, the Shelter provides a wide-open space that can be used to store goods and equipment of all sizes. This also makes it easier to move and handle items, as there are no obstacles to impede the flow of goods.
In addition, the translucent fabric used in Fabric Shelters produces a pleasant, well-lit interior, minimising the need for artificial lighting. The natural light that filters through the fabric can reduce energy consumption, making Fabric Shelters an eco-friendly and cost-effective option for warehousing. The fabric is also UV-resistant, protecting stored goods from the sun’s harmful rays and preventing discoloration or degradation of sensitive materials, which is important to avoid the risk of their warranty being voided.
2. Vehicle Maintenance Workshops
Fabric Shelters are an excellent option for vehicle maintenance workshops, providing a wide range of benefits that make them an ideal choice for various industries. The flexibility of Fabric Shelters allows for a wide range of sizes and designs that can accommodate different vehicle sizes, making them ideal for light or heavy vehicle workshops. No internal columns or supports creates a large, open space for working on vehicles.
Fabric Shelters provide a safe and ambient working environment where staff and equipment are protected from the elements. Fabric Shelters are a semi-permanent solution that can be easily installed and later dismantled and moved if needed; this makes them ideal for use in mine sites and other temporary worksites. Additionally, the containers used to mount the Shelter can be fitted out as storage or office space, making them a multifunctional solution that maximises the use of space.
3. Aviation Hangars
Fabric Shelters are an ideal solution for aviation hangars. The large size potential of Fabric Shelters makes them an ideal option for housing aircraft. The Shelter can be designed and manufactured to accommodate different aircraft sizes, including helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. The portability of Fabric Shelters also makes them an excellent option for aviation, as they can be easily transported and installed in remote locations. This is especially useful for military and emergency services applications, where rapid deployment is essential. Installation is quick and efficient, requiring minimal site preparation and reducing the impact on the surrounding environment.
In addition, Fabric Shelters can include a range of internal fit-out options such as lighting, electrics, and other features required for aircraft maintenance and storage. This results in highly customised, Fit-For-Purpose Shelters that respond to every project need without dramatic lead times or overly complex installation requirements.
4. Manufacturing and Production Workshops
Fabric Shelters are an excellent option for manufacturing and production workshops, offering a range of advantages over traditional buildings. The durable materials used to construct the shelters can protect from even harsh winds and rain, ensuring that work can continue inside despite the weather. This minimises downtime and the loss of money that can result from it, keeping production running smoothly.
Another advantage of fabric shelters is the capacity for structures over 2000sqm in obstruction-free internal space. This provides companies with a large, sheltered workshop in considerably less time than traditional buildings. This maximises the use of space and creates an efficient working environment.
5. Animal Husbandry
Fabric Shelters are becoming an increasingly popular option for animal husbandry due to their numerous advantages. Compared to traditional steel sheds, Fabric Shelters have a shorter lead time and are typically more affordable, making them a more accessible option for farmers. The bright and well-ventilated interior of Fabric Shelters provides a comfortable and stress-free environment for animals.
The translucent tarp fabric allows natural light to filter through, creating a bright space that helps animals to thrive. Natural light can also reduce the need for artificial lighting, saving energy costs. In addition to being cost-effective, Fabric Shelters are durable and fully weatherproof, protecting animals, especially young animals, from potentially harmful extreme elements such as sun and frost. The Shelter provides a safe and secure environment that promotes animal health and well-being.
6. Military Weapon Systems Operation & Maintenance
Fabric Shelters offer an ideal solution for Military Weapon Systems Operation & Maintenance. Container Mounted Structures can provide secure storage with a level of environmental control. These Structures are fully customisable with doors, ventilation systems, end walls, and other features required for specific needs. Fabric Shelters can be fitted with specialised flooring and lighting to create a safe and effective working environment. The use of these structures is ideal for remote sites, and no prior installation experience is required for teams to erect the Shelters.
Fabric Shelters also offer the ability to separate ammunition in structures that are connected but fully enclosed. This means that potentially volatile ammunition can be separated from other weapon systems. This separation adds an extra level of security, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring the safety of military personnel. Containers, earth bunding and camouflage systems can also be used to protect the contents of the Shelters. This provides an additional layer of protection for sensitive materials, further enhancing the security of the operation. In addition, their portability makes it easy to move from one location to another, making it an ideal solution for military operations.
7. Transport Depots
Fabric Shelters can be up to 60m long or more, providing incredibly large sizes without sacrificing strength or durability. The clear span internal space allows for vehicle access, regardless of size, without the need for internal support poles. This maximises their efficiencies in the transport industry.
One of the biggest advantages of Fabric Shelters is the significantly shorter lead time required for installation compared to traditional steel structures. The remote delivery and installation capabilities of these Shelters make them a quick and efficient option for transport depots. This can help to minimise downtime and ensure that the depot is up and running as quickly as possible. Fabric Shelters are also highly customisable, with a range of features available to meet specific needs, including customised access points, ventilation systems, and more.
8. Bulk Storage
Fabric Shelters are a highly flexible and cost-effective solution for bulk storage facilities. They have the ability to protect assets not only during work but also after-hours, with fully sealed and lockable shelters available. This ensures that valuable assets are kept safe and secure at all times, reducing the risk of damage or theft.
One of the main advantages of Fabric Shelters for bulk storage facilities is their ability to be incredibly large. They can be customised to a wide range of sizes, offering the flexibility to store large volumes of materials. In addition, they can be relocated if necessary to suit changing project needs. This can be a major advantage for companies that need to be able to adapt quickly to changing market conditions or other factors.
9. Mining Facilities
Fabric Shelters offer a highly flexible and cost-effective solution for mine site facility needs. Mine sites require designated areas for a range of functions such as:
- Tyre Change Bays
- Refuel Bays
- Boiler Bays
- Core Sample Shelters
- Ammonium Nitrate Storage
Fabric Shelters can be fit-for-purpose to suit all of these applications and can be customised to meet the specific needs of a mine site. One of the main advantages of fabric shelters for mine sites is that they provide a safe and ambient working environment. Additionally, they are semi-permanent structures that can be dismantled and relocated as required, making them highly adaptable to changing mine site conditions. Protection from the elements allows for 24/7 operation in all of these areas.
10. Military Command & Control Centres
Fabric Shelters can be an effective solution for military command and control centres. They provide essential shade and shelter from the elements, protecting the equipment and personnel inside from the effects of the sun, wind, and rain. In addition to this, Fabric Shelters can be fully enclosed to reduce the chances of enemy observation.
Some suppliers offer Fabric Shelters that can be modified with multispectral camouflage systems that render the Shelter difficult to observe, making it an effective tool for military operations. These systems can help to ensure the assets within the Shelter are unidentifiable and non-targetable. Fabric Shelters are ideal for remote sites, allowing the military to set up a command center wherever it is needed. Vitally, they are easily installed by first-time installers, which makes them an ideal solution for military operations that require a quick and easy setup.
