Issues Related to the Design of Spatial Structures

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(8) Effects of Fire on Spatial Structures

The maximum acceptable temperature for most metals is about half their melting temperature (temperature causing material failure).

The maximum acceptable temperature for some of the materials used in spatial structures are:

Since aluminum has a low acceptable temperature (compared to steel), the structure has to be painted with fire proofing foam or designed with a large reserve capacity to prevent failure in case of a fire.

When the spatial structure is only supported at its corners, it is the most susceptible to overall failure due to fire, as the softening of the members around the columns may result in a catastrophic collapse. Therefore, it is usually recommended to add more supports or increase the member sizes around the columns. Supporting spatial structures on rollers allows for expansion without overstressing structural members in a fire.

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