Tubular Truss and Large-Span Steel Structure Fabrication
Large-span roofs and tubular truss structures depend on accurate geometry at every stage-from the detailing model and complex node definition to workshop fit-up, component segmentation and site assembly interfaces. FSS supports stadiums, gymnasiums, swimming venues, industrial plants and other large-span projects with steel detailing, tubular and built-up component fabrication, inspection, surface treatment and delivery preparation.
The final structural system, loads and design approval remain with the responsible project engineers. FSS focuses on converting approved information into a manufacturable and traceable steel package.
Typical applications
- Stadium and gymnasium roof structures
- Swimming venues, exhibition centers and public buildings
- Airport, station and terminal roof structures
- Industrial buildings using large tubular trusses
- Curved or irregular spatial steel structures
- Projects with complex multi-member connection nodes
Key project challenges
Complex nodes must be both accurate and weldable
Multiple tubular members may converge at different angles and elevations. Detailing needs to define member centerlines, end cuts, connection plates, weld access and assembly sequence without losing the approved structural geometry.
Large trusses usually require segmentation
A truss that works structurally may be too large for workshop handling or transport as one piece. Segmentation should consider manufacturing tolerances, lifting points, temporary stability, shipment dimensions and the local assembly method.
Accumulated tolerances can affect site closure
Small deviations at repeated nodes can accumulate across a large-span structure. Critical dimensions, templates, trial assembly or other verification measures should be defined according to project risk and the approved inspection plan.
Transport and erection interfaces must be coordinated early
Component length, width, weight and shape affect loading, bracing, port handling and the site lifting plan. FSS coordinates the fabricated shipment package, while the local contractor remains responsible for the erection method and site safety.
FSS large-span solution
- Review the approved geometry, model information, design drawings and fabrication boundary.
- Develop or coordinate Tekla models, shop drawings and complex-node details when included.
- Plan member cutting, node assembly, welding sequence and truss segmentation.
- Fabricate tubular trusses, built-up members and complex connection nodes.
- Verify agreed critical dimensions and perform specified inspection or NDT.
- Apply the confirmed surface-treatment system and prepare component identification.
- Package components according to shipment lots and the agreed transport plan.
Representative project references
Qingdao - University Gymnasium
A university gymnasium used a 100 m-span steel roof. Each primary truss weighed approximately 80 tonnes, and the estimated total steel quantity was approximately 2,800 tonnes. The work covered large-truss workshop fabrication, delivery and site assembly coordination.
Linyi - Large Swimming Venue
A 60 m-span truss system with an estimated steel quantity of approximately 2,900 tonnes required overall steel detailing, complex node development and steel-node fabrication for a curved spatial structure. Available evidence includes the overall Tekla model, detailed node models and manufactured node photographs.
Shandong - Offshore Wind Turbine Manufacturing Plant
This industrial-building reference included steel detailing models, large tubular trusses, heavy steel-component fabrication, transport and site-lifting coordination. It demonstrates the relationship between model geometry, workshop fabrication, component segmentation and heavy transport.
Information required for review
|
Required input |
Review purpose |
|
Approved structural model and drawings |
Confirm geometry, member interfaces and current revision |
|
Node and connection design information |
Review manufacturability, weld access and shop-detail scope |
|
Material and tubular-section specifications |
Plan procurement, cutting and traceability |
|
Critical dimensions and tolerances |
Define inspection and fit-up control points |
|
Welding and NDT requirements |
Confirm WPS, qualifications, methods and acceptance criteria |
|
Transport and lifting restrictions |
Plan segmentation, shipment lots and handling points |
|
Surface treatment and destination |
Coordinate preparation, protection and export packaging |
FAQ
Q: Can FSS provide Tekla detailing for a large-span project?
A: Yes, when detailing is included in the agreed scope and the required design information has been released. The responsible engineer retains structural-design approval and control of design changes.
Q: How are large trusses shipped?
A: The shipment method depends on component dimensions, weight, destination and available routes. Trusses may require segmentation, temporary bracing, special supports, container planning or other agreed transport measures.
Q: Does FSS perform trial assembly?
A: Trial assembly or template verification may be included when specified by the project documents or agreed because of geometry risk. It should not be assumed for every order.
Q: Can FSS provide site erection?
A: The local contractor normally performs erection. FSS can supply agreed fabrication and erection information and may provide remote technical support, but site execution and safety remain with the responsible local parties.
Send Your Truss or Large-Span Drawings for Fabrication Review
Email the current model, drawings, specifications, inspection requirements, destination and transport constraints to serena@fss-china.com. FSS will review the available information for detailing, fabrication and export delivery planning.