Abstract: A circumferentially extending structure 30 for containing particles having an axial component of velocity and a radial component of velocity is disclosed. The structure includes an inner casing 48 and an outer casing 50. The outer casing is formed of a plurality of layers of flexible fabric and includes layers having differing masses per unit length in the fabric. The layers of fabric extend about the inner casing. A means for applying a load to the fabric engages the fabric to place the fabric in tension. One such means is a plurality of bars 80, 82 and turnbuckles 74. In one embodiment, the fabric has a greater mass per unit length in the leading edge region and a greater tension is applied to the leading edge region than other regions of the fabric. A method of forming the structures is disclosed.

Abstract: A circumferentially extending structure 30 for containing particles having an axial component of velocity and a radial component of velocity is disclosed. The structure includes an inner casing 48 and an outer casing 50. The outer casing is formed of a plurality of layers of flexible fabric and includes layers having differing masses per unit length in the fabric. The layers of fabric extend about the inner casing. A means for applying a load to the fabric engages the fabric to place the fabric in tension. One such means is a plurality of bars 80, 82 and turnbuckles 74. In one embodiment, the fabric has a greater mass per unit length in the leading edge region and a greater tension is applied to the leading edge region than other regions of the fabric. A method of forming the structures is disclosed.