Tent structures, as temporary or portable architectural structures, are widely used in various events, warehousing, and other settings. The quality of the materials used directly affects the performance, service life, and safety of these structures. The choice of materials should be based on specific needs and application scenarios. When making a selection, factors such as material performance, cost, aesthetics, and durability should be considered comprehensively.

I. Frame Materials

Aluminum alloy is relatively lightweight, making it easy to transport and assemble, which effectively reduces labor and transportation costs. Aluminum alloy offers excellent corrosion resistance, allowing it to be used in a variety of harsh climatic conditions; it is not prone to rust, which significantly extends the service life of the tent. Aluminum alloy is highly durable and can withstand certain loads, such as the pressure from natural elements like wind and snow, ensuring the safety of the tent. Steel, on the other hand, is extremely strong and can withstand heavy weights and external forces, making it suitable for constructing large marquees or those with high load-bearing requirements. However, steel is heavy, which increases the difficulty of transportation and assembly. It is also prone to rust, particularly in humid or highly corrosive environments, requiring regular maintenance and anti-corrosion treatment—which increases operating costs and maintenance workload. Over time, rust can compromise the structural integrity of the frame, reducing the marquee’s safety.

II. Tarpaulin Materials

PVC tarpaulins offer excellent waterproofing, effectively preventing rainwater from entering and keeping the interior of the tent dry. They have strong tear resistance and are not easily damaged, which extends the tarpaulin’s service life. PVC tarps also offer good flame-retardant properties, which enhance the safety of the tent to a certain extent. Fiberglass tarps, on the other hand, are relatively stiff and lack flexibility, requiring special care during folding and transportation to prevent damage. They are relatively expensive, and repairs are difficult; once damaged, the cost of repair is high.

III. Material of Connectors

Compatible with the aluminum alloy frame material, these connectors provide secure fastening and offer the same corrosion resistance, making them suitable for a variety of environments without compromising connection strength due to corrosion. They are relatively lightweight, making them easy to install and transport, which reduces the physical strain and difficulty of the installation process. Steel, on the other hand, is prone to rust and requires regular anti-corrosion treatment; otherwise, it will compromise the reliability of the connections and shorten the service life of the tent structure. Its heavier weight increases the difficulty of installation and places higher demands on installation equipment, and it is also more cumbersome to transport.

IV. Materials for Ground Anchors

Metal ground anchors are highly durable and can be firmly driven into the ground, providing reliable anchoring. They are suitable for a variety of soil conditions, such as grassy areas and soft soil. They are relatively affordable, allowing for large-scale use without incurring excessive costs. Installation and removal are relatively convenient, enabling quick setup and takedown of the tent structure. In contrast, expansion bolts require specialized tools to drill holes during installation, making the process relatively complex and demanding a high level of technical skill from installers. Furthermore, the installation process may cause some damage to the ground. The overall cost is relatively high, including the cost of the bolts themselves as well as the tools and labor required for installation.