The Frac Sand Dome storage facility recently constructed near Wembley, Canada far exceeds 30,000 metric tons of sand storage in one building. Project by South Industries.
Monolithic dome structures are not new; however, the technology for creating them has improved dramatically. Monolithic dome structures have gained in popularity around the globe--and for good reason. Dome structures offer solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues, such as affordable housing and buildings that can be constructed quickly. They are eco-friendly and have a high insulation value that affords substantial energy savings. There are so many advantages to monolithic dome structures, such as strength, durability, energy-efficient, cost-effective, low-maintenance, and wind, water and fire-resistant.
South Industries, located in Menan, Idaho, has constructed monolithic dome structures throughout the U.S., Canada, China, Indonesia and Africa. Their talented team of experts encompasses complementary disciplines in engineering and construction. They can construct projects so quickly that it makes their fine-tuned workmanship look deceptively easy. But, don’t be fooled. It takes a highly skilled team to accomplish this feat on time--every time. Shown below are photos of a few more of South Industries’ projects.
Vanguard School
U.S. Silica Frac Sand Storage
Delaware Military Academy
Wasuma Elementary School Gymnasium
Monolithic dome structures have been utilized for school additions, churches, convention centers, sports facilities, offices, temporary and permanent military housing and tactical operations centers, bulk storage facilities and much more. This building construction technology is taking off all over the world. Dome structures can be constructed faster than traditional construction methods while providing superior insulation. The shape of a monolithic dome structure has a minimal surface area to volume ratio for heat transfer. Once spray foam is applied to the interior of the structure, heat energy is greatly conserved. This translates into tremendous money and energy saving—exactly what our planet needs now more than ever before in human history.
Monolithic Dome Structures Can Withstand Natural Disasters
Dome home survives hurricane
Photo source: Wikipedia
Dome structure intact after bomb blast
Photo source: Wikipedia
Dome homes and buildings can withstand hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, wildfires and even bomb blasts. Domed roofs and buildings are more aerodynamic than square or cubed structures enabling the wind flows over and around them. During hurricanes, Dennis, Ivan and Katrina, dome structures were left intact amid the carnage. This is due to the structures’ semi-circular shape and concrete reinforcement. According to FEMA, monolithic dome structures are, “…as near absolute protection from F-5 tornadoes and category 5 hurricanes”.
Monolithic Dome Construction Process
Monolithic dome construction has come a long way over the years. Current construction methods were developed by brothers David, Barry and Randy South. Monolithic dome construction requires a specialized team of workers. The following is a simplified overview of the construction process.
- he foundation is constructed, in a circular shape, with reinforced concrete.
- A structural steel ring beam is installed and later moved into place.
- A fabric or air-form is attached to the foundation and inflated.
- Polyurethane foam is sprayed on the interior.
- A support frame of rebar is constructed inside.
- Concrete is spayed over the rebar frame.
Monolithic dome structures are the perfect solution for residential, commercial and industrial uses. They can even be installed under extreme cold conditions. Entire dome communities could be the wave of the future. After all, it’s hard to argue the benefits dome structures offer to solve myriad world issues.
For more information about South Industries, visit their website at southindustries.com/about-south-industries/