What Are the Main Types of Steel Structures?

The priority when deciding on the right building choice should be treading the route of a future-proof solution. If this tops your scale of preference, then steel is definitely what fits your bill best. Compared to what other structures available today – including timber and concrete, steel boasts superior durability, lesser maintenance demands, and a range of nonpareil &compelling features.

The basics of steel structure

Steel is primarily made of iron and carbon. As such, it is called an alloy of these materials. However, you can always augment this and upscale its properties by adding several other components at appropriate proportions. These other components may range from manganese, nickel, chrome, phosphorus, and the list goes on and on.

For instance, you can add copper to minimize its corrosive tendency. Besides, manganese can cater to tensile strength, adding to its durability as well. Nickel and chrome may as well reduce corrosive tendency and bring their proneness to temperature to the barest minimum. In essence, a discourse about steel structure is incomplete without understanding what elements are embedded therein.

Types of steel structures

More than what we've highlighted earlier, there are still a number of examples of steel structures. And primarily, they can be divided into four. Note that each type is not only tailored to particular types of construction but also feature various construction approaches.

Having said that, here are the four types of steel structures：

Portal frame steel structure

This is arguably the most common steel structure, especially when it comes to light steel structures. This type of steel structure comprises welded or hot rolled section steel, steel pipes, and C/Z steel. This makes it tailored to bear the considerable weight of any type of structure. Also, for this reason, it is tailored to several buildings and constructions, spanning institutional, agricultural, commercial, and industrial. Put more simply, a typical rigid portal frame has its columns and beams bound together by a rigid connection. This bestows it with the characteristics of simplicity, lightweight, reduced stress, and immense force bearing.

Steel grid structure

This is typically made up of several rods joined together considering some criteria. These criteria span negligible space stress, immense seismic resistance, lightweight, etc. These grids are of different types, each featuring different criteria, standards, and requirements. Considering their seismic resistance and rigidity, they are suitable for exhibition halls, gyms, etc.

Steel truss structure

This structure comprises a number of rods connected to hinges at both ends. There are two primary types of steel truss structure: the space truss and plane truss. When dividing in terms of part section, angle steel truss and tube truss are also types to consider. A typical truss has an upper chord, diagonal web, lower cord, vertical cord, and a support system between each truss. This structure uses less steel than what others demand. Its weight is also significantly lesser and boasts superior force-bearing capability.

Steel building frame structure

You’ll typically find this in multi-storey buildings. This type of steel structure is made up of beams and columns. These form structures that can withstand horizontal and vertical weights seamlessly.

Steel Structure Manufacturer

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