Technical Services

Frequently Asked Questions

How Does an Air Dome Work?

The principle behind an air dome is simple but highly effective.

A continuous air supply system maintains a stable internal pressure that is only slightly higher than the outside atmosphere. This pressure supports the high-strength membrane covering the structure.

The system mainly consists of:

  • High-strength PVC or PVDF membrane
  • Intelligent air pressure control system
  • Emergency backup power system
  • Air-lock entrance system
  • Steel anchoring foundation
  • Smart monitoring platform

Even if external weather conditions change, the automatic control system continuously adjusts the internal pressure to ensure structural stability.

What Is an Air Dome Structure?

An air dome structure, also known as an air-supported building or air membrane structure, is a modern large-span building that uses internal air pressure to support a flexible membrane roof without the need for internal columns.

Compared with conventional steel buildings, air dome structures provide larger unobstructed spaces, faster construction, lower operating costs, and excellent environmental performance. They have become an increasingly popular solution for industrial storage, environmental protection, logistics, mining, and sports facilities.

What is an air-supported structure?

Air-supported structures are large-span spatial systems that use specialized architectural membrane materials as the envelope, supported by internal air pressure and integrated with intelligent mechanical and electrical systems.

What is the structural support principle of air-supported structures?

It relies on maintaining an internal air pressure higher than the external pressure, using the resulting pressure differential to support the entire building structure and achieve self-supporting stability.

Do air-supported structures require columns or beams?

No, it’s not necessary. Air‑supported structures rely on air pressure differentials for structural support, so they require no internal beams or columns, enabling fully open, large‑span spaces.

How do air-supported structures ensure indoor air quality?

The system is equipped with intelligent electromechanical devices that can continuously supply fresh air to fully enclosed spaces, ensuring adequate air circulation and air quality.

 

Can air-supported structures regulate indoor temperature and humidity?

Yes, it can. Its intelligent control system precisely regulates indoor temperature and humidity, meeting the environmental requirements of various application scenarios.

How is the air pressure inside an air-supported structure maintained?

By means of an automated ventilation and pressure control system, indoor air pressure is continuously maintained at a level higher than outdoor pressure, ensuring the structural stability of the building.

What scenarios are air-supported structures suitable for?

It is suitable for venues requiring large-span spaces, such as sports stadiums, exhibition centers, logistics warehouses, temporary event facilities, and industrial material yards.

What are the characteristics of the membrane material used in air-supported structures?

The architectural membrane material employed exhibits excellent strength, durability, and light transmittance, making it well suited as an envelope material for large‑span self‑supporting structures.

How does the construction timeline of an air-supported structure compare to that of a conventional building?

It is typically significantly shorter than conventional buildings, as the main structure relies on pneumatic forming, making on-site installation and commissioning more efficient.

Is the energy consumption of air-supported structures high during operation?

Under conditions of proper design and operation, the membrane material’s inherent thermal insulation properties, combined with an intelligent control system, enable operating energy consumption to be kept within an acceptable range.

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