Beacon BallieldDimensionsGuide-2024-WEB - Flipbook - Page 19
FACILITY AMENITIES
Making Sense of Netting |
M AT E R I A L S & C O N S T R U C T I O N
For most types of protective netting users, nylon will be the right choice because of its overall value (low cost + good performance).
For high-end users that require a more immersive spectator experience, Dyneema® may be the better choice. When it comes to construction,
knotted or knotless are both viable options and it often boils down to what the intended application will be. As with any netting project however,
it is always best to consult a netting expert to help assess all aspects of the project to determine your best option.
■ NETTING MATERIALS:
Nylon vs. Dyneema
Dyneema® is a brand name for a type of netting fiber referred to as Ultra
Nylon is the tried-and-true standard in the sports netting industry and has
High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE). Other brand names that
been for many years. It is easy to produce which makes it less expensive and
utilize UHMWPE fibers include Spectra® and UltraCross®. Due to its chemical
it can generally be sourced from almost any supplier with quick turnaround. It
composition, this type of fiber boasts a very high strength-to-weight ratio — even
is also durable and provides a very good overall value over the life of a net. Its
better than steel. For sports applications, this means smaller twine diameters for
downside is it is bulkier and heavier — particularly when wet. For nylon netting
better visibility through the net without sacrificing break strength. Thinner twine
to be strong enough to adequately protect spectators, twine diameters need
also means lower wind loading and stress on support structures which is often
to be larger which makes visibility through the net a bit more difficult. Nylon
a high percentage of the cost for most netting installations. UHMWPE fibers
netting also absorbs water which adds weight and potentially more sag and
also exhibit very little stretch, do not absorb water, and resist UV rays quite well.
slack, as well as stress on the netting support structure.
Expect to spend 3-5 times more, however, over nylon netting materials.
■ NETTING CONSTRUCTION:
Twisted Knotted vs. Braided Knotless
Twisted knotted netting is twisted twine that is then knotted together for the
Braided knotless netting is braided twine that is then woven together to form
desired mesh size and tends to have relatively low stretch. It is a very good
the desired mesh size and can exhibit a significantly higher amount of what’s
choice in situations where the shape and stability is important. An obvious
known as “construction stretch”. This stretching is a result of the woven fibers of
example of this is in baseball and softball backstops where spectators may be
the netting simply tightening down on themselves over time and reducing the
sitting only a few feet behind the net. Twisted knotted netting material helps
space between individual fibers. Knotless netting is best used where the stretch
avoid excessive slack due to its low stretch over a period of time and is a good
that can develop over time does not pose a danger to people or property, such
candidate for providing protection to fans and property.
as with divider curtains, batting cages, and behind-the-goal net systems.
BeaconAthletics.com
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