The Manufacturing Process of Tents: what does it look like and what machines are necessary?
The production of tents may seem relatively uncomplicated at first glance. However, when a tent is supposed to provide full protection against weather conditions while also being of above-average dimensions, the details become extremely important. This includes factors such as welding the individual material parts together and the precision of the material cuts.
What are tents made of? If we take a general overview of materials, you might be surprised. Nowadays, polyester is typically used as the base material for tents. It offers everything a producer would expect – lightweight, relatively low cost of raw materials, and high durability. However, it’s important to be aware that tents can also be made from nylon, fiber, PVC fabric, as well as cotton blends and canvas.
Specialized polyester is popular due to its affordable price and weather resistance. However, proper protection, called impregnation, is necessary. In comparison, nylon, which is lighter than polyester, is slightly lower in quality due to its increased susceptibility to tearing and damage. This susceptibility is a result of various factors, including the effects of sunlight rays. On the other hand, any cotton-based materials undoubtedly offer significant resistance to damage while allowing air circulation. This is an important feature for odor and moisture evaporation. However, compared to polyester, cotton-based materials come with a higher price and heavier weight. If the tent is intended for stationary use, this won’t be a challenge. However, when it comes to regular transportation from place to place, cotton may prove difficult to pack and transport.
On the other hand, if the tent needs to be exceptionally durable, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) should be chosen. PVC performs well in any weather conditions. However, mobility becomes a concern here as well since PVC is not a lightweight material.
Water resistance of a tent – a key design feature
Undoubtedly, the key characteristic of tents is their waterproofness, which ensures protection from rain. It is crucial to consider the effectiveness of this protection, measured in millimeters as the waterproof rating. This rating shows how much water it takes for liquid to penetrate through the material into the interior. Standard camping tents typically have a rain resistance rating of around 1,000 mm, but there are also tents available that are designed to withstand higher levels, such as 3,000 mm or even 5,000 mm. These tents often feature a well-insulated floor.
Regardless of the quality of the base material, the waterproofness of the tent, whether it is small or large, like those used as backup structures for large stores or wholesalers, relies heavily on the quality of the welds. The quality of the manufacturing process is crucial.
Production of tents and weld tightness
The individual components of tents are joined together using the high-frequency welding process. One particular challenge is dealing with any open elements in the plastic material. Nowadays, it is hard to imagine an industrial tent, as well as amateur ones, without features like window openings, entrances, and other finishing touches. These elements are typically welded into place – in this way, tents are equipped with windows made of PVC film.
It is worth noting that similar technology also applies to vestibules used for camper trailers. With the growing interest in caravanning and car tourism, there is a demand for welded elements that expand the usable space of the vehicle. These elements, much like tents, require advanced manufacturing techniques.
What machines should be used for tent production?
The primary tool used to precisely join tent components and create welds is a high-frequency welder. Depending on the size of the target structure, it can be tailored to a specific project. An example is Simpla – one of the basic machines of this type offered by Zemat. It has been adapted to work with a variety of base plane sizes, providing a relatively high degree of freedom to the operator. For more advanced projects, consider the Tarpa PRO model, which is designed for large-size materials.
Another important aspect is the process of cutting tent sheathing panels. In this case, the Randix plotter, specifically designed for serial realizations, proves to be indispensable at times. The capabilities of such equipment are not limited to the production of standard tents alone. These machines are widely used in the manufacturing of promotional and event constructions. Manufacturers also use them for orders involving refugee tents, circus spaces, and trade show venues.
As a result, when expanding machinery specifically for the serial production of tents, it is worthwhile to consider the assumption of larger targets. While tents are typically associated with small structures, their importance in industrial or commercial contexts has increased. With strong materials and stable structures, large tents can effectively serve as display spaces for goods. For instance, they can be used as outlets in front of main stores.
