When looking at terminology on different signage, outdoor use, and other websites, you might come across the term “tension fabric.” However, understanding what is meant by this and the number of different uses that it has is a bit trickier than most other fabrics. This is because it is much more technologically advanced and because it can be used in a number of different ways.
The first thing to understand about tension fabric is that there are a number of different variations that exist, making it so that any company you order it from is likely to have a different fabric than any other company. The similarity is in the way that they act and in the way that they are used. All tension fabric is created by knitting, ensuring that it is able to stretch, but that it is also able to keep its form, making it versatile and easy to use. It is also always going to be stretched over some type of frame, making a taut surface that can either be used to keep elements out or to display items.
The first use that is common for this type of fabric is that of creating tension fabric buildings, such as tents and various shelters. The fabric is stretched across a thick frame, ensuring that the building that is being constructed will be sturdy. This can often be accompanied by a secondary layer either inside or outside to ensure that the weather will be kept out or to allow for better temperature regulation by people inside of the building. Structures that are made in this manner are easy to put up and take down, portable and lightweight, and are able to be replaced or repaired with ease if something happens to them while they are in use or being stored.
The second common use for this type of fabric is in display and signage. The fabric is stretched on a much less sturdy frame, allowing it to be displayed in any number of areas. Again, the option to move the fabric around from place to place without worrying about excess weight, and the ease with which it can be replaced is important. Also of importance is the ability to quickly weather proof this fabric via a number of different means, making these lightweight bits of signage appropriate for use outside and in any number of different climates.
A third use is that of fabric and frame being used to display goods or other objects. Because the fabric structures can be taken down and put up with ease, this type of display is often used at various different trade and craft fairs and within conferences as well.
Overall, tension fabric is a cheap but effective way for people to make signs, put up tents, display their goods, and otherwise work in environments that don’t respond well to normal fabric, paper, cardboard, or bulkier options. The biggest appeal to this fabric is usually that it is lightweight, able to be made quickly, and that it is cheap.