An aircraft hangar is a large enclosed structure designed to house, protect, and service aircraft. These buildings are essential for safeguarding aircraft from environmental elements, facilitating maintenance, and ensuring operational readiness.
Aircraft Hangar in Sudan
Designing a steel structure aircraft hangar involves several critical considerations to ensure functionality, safety, and durability. Below is a structured approach to the design:
Purpose & Aircraft Type: Determine the hangar's use (maintenance, storage) and accommodate aircraft dimensions (span, height).
Clear Span: Typically 60-80m for smaller jets; up to 100m+ for larger aircraft. Portal frames (up to 60m) or truss systems (longer spans) are common.
Height: Door clearance of 18-25m for large aircraft; overall height includes space for equipment.
Framing: Use portal frames for cost-effectiveness (up to 60m), trusses for longer spans, or space frames for architectural flexibility.
Load Analysis:
Dead Loads: Steel frame, cladding, insulation.
Live Loads: Maintenance equipment, personnel.
Environmental Loads: Wind, snow (region-dependent), seismic activity.
Bracing: Diagonal bracing for lateral stability; rigid joints for moment resistance.
Steel: High-strength grades (e.g., ASTM A572) for columns, rafters, and trusses.
Cladding/Roofing: Corrugated steel or insulated panels (e.g., PU sandwich panels) for durability and insulation.
Doors: Bifold or telescopic doors (insulated steel panels) with motorized operation.
Type: Raft or pile foundations based on soil testing to prevent differential settlement.
Anchoring: Resist wind uplift with reinforced footings and anchor bolts.
Ventilation: Mechanical systems (exhaust fans) or natural vents.
Lighting: LED fixtures with skylights for natural light.
Fire Protection: Sprinkler systems, fire-resistant coatings (e.g., intumescent paint).
Safety: Overhead cranes, emergency exits, and compliance with FAA/ICAO regulations.
Energy Efficiency: Solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and insulated cladding.
Cost Management: Optimize steel usage; consider lifecycle maintenance costs.
Large Spans: Use trusses or space frames to minimize deflection.
Corrosion: Galvanization or epoxy coatings for harsh environments.
Thermal Expansion: Incorporate expansion joints in design.
Software: AutoCAD for drafting; STAAD.Pro/SAP2000 for structural analysis; BIM for coordination.
Collaboration: Engage structural engineers, architects, and aviation experts.
Adhere to IBC, ASCE 7, AISC, and local aviation regulations.
Regular inspections for welding (AWS D1.1) and fire safety.
Span: 70m (portal frame with trussed rafters).
Height: 22m door clearance; 28m apex.
Cladding: 100mm insulated panels (U-value 0.3 W/m²K).
Door: Bifold, 65m wide x 20m high.
Foundation: Raft foundation with grade 35 concrete.