Rods

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Rods
Category:

Rods

In space frame structures, the rods (often called members or chords) are the straight tubular elements that connect to spherical nodes to form a rigid 3D lattice.

Material

  • Usually made from steel (Q235, Q345, ASTM A500, etc.) or aluminum for lightweight designs.

  • Circular Hollow Sections (CHS) are most common for uniform load distribution.

  • Sometimes Square Hollow Sections (SHS) are used in hybrid designs.

Types of Space Frame Pipes

  1. Top Chords

    • Form the upper layer of the frame (often under the roof covering).

    • Mostly in compression.

  2. Bottom Chords

    • Lower layer of the frame.

    • Mostly in tension.

  3. Web Members

    • Diagonal or vertical connectors between top and bottom chords.

    • Transfer shear and stabilize the structure.

Pipe End Connections

  • Ends are welded with conical sleeves (cone heads).

  • A high-strength bolt passes through the cone and into the spherical node’s tapered threaded hole.

  • Cone geometry ensures precise alignment and load transfer.

Manufacturing Process

  1. Cutting the steel tubes to exact lengths.

  2. Welding conical sleeves to the ends.

  3. Surface treatment — hot-dip galvanizing, epoxy coating, or painting.

Common Sizes

  • Diameter: 48 mm to 180 mm

  • Wall Thickness: 2 mm to 8 mm

  • Chosen based on span, loads, and structural analysis.

Advantages

  • High strength-to-weight ratio.

  • Quick assembly (all bolted).

  • Modular and replaceable parts.

  • Aesthetic, lightweight appearance.

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