The term “steel framework” is often heard in construction and is now the main structure of most buildings. Steel structures, consisting of beams and columns, form this framework and provide stability to the building. Samandezh Pars Company has prepared this article to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of steel frameworks and steel structures. Join us for more information.
What is a Steel Framework?
Steel structures are manufactured and prepared in factories, which helps to speed up the construction process. The increased speed of executing a steel framework compared to concrete structures reduces construction costs. Additionally, continuous quality control in factories leads to less material waste.
Due to the more stable properties of metals, steel structures or frameworks have higher strength and resistance compared to concrete, showing greater resilience against external factors and pressures. Furthermore, the lighter weight of steel frameworks provides better balance compared to concrete structures.
Why Use Steel Structures?
This is a question that often captures the attention of many audiences, and it can be answered with the following reasons. In this section, we will elaborate on each of the advantages of steel frameworks.
Samandezh Pars Company is a construction firm in Tehran that also produces and utilizes steel structures in its building projects.
Cost Reduction in Construction
The framework of a building determines its construction costs. Steel structures are generally cheaper and more cost-effective than concrete ones.
Creativity in Design and Construction
Steel structures allow designers to think creatively and take bold architectural risks. Utilizing steel frameworks can enable abundant natural light to flow into the building.
Cost and Time Management
Steel structures are manufactured by skilled workers in factories, which enhances safety and reliability in the construction process. According to industry surveys, the use of steel frameworks has led to better control over construction costs and timelines.
The uniform properties of metal result in reduced susceptibility to external factors, enhancing the structure’s strength and leading to material savings.
Longer Lifespan
Steel structures exhibit good resistance against natural elements, including strong winds, storms, harsh weather conditions, heavy snow, and earthquakes. Their resistance to corrosion has also contributed to the popularity of this type of structure.
High Strength
The strength of steel structures is higher compared to concrete ones, making them ideal for large spans in buildings and warehouses. They are particularly favored in weak soil conditions, significantly increasing the overall resilience of the structure.
Advantages of Steel Structures
If you want to learn about the advantages of steel structures, please continue reading this article.
Steel structures have the following benefits:
* High Resistance and Strength: They offer excellent resistance to compression and tension.
* Quality Control: Steel can be quality controlled during production.
* Scalability: Steel structures can be easily expanded.
* Pre-fabrication: Components can be pre-manufactured before installation.
* Fast Installation: The speed of installation and execution is high.
* Height Adaptability: Steel structures can be used at great heights above ground.
* Space Efficiency: Steel frameworks occupy less space.
* Earthquake Resistance: They have high resistance to earthquakes and natural disasters.
* Stable Continuity: Steel offers stable and continuous performance.
* Less Waste: There is less material waste compared to other construction materials.
* Reusability: Steel can be reused.
* Ductility: Steel has good ductility.
* Vibration Dampening: They help prevent vibration and stress concentration.
* Structural Integrity: They contribute to the prevention of building failure.
Disadvantages of Steel Structures
While we have discussed the advantages of steel structures, they are not without their drawbacks, and it’s important to recognize these as well.
The disadvantages of steel structures are as follows:
Low Resistance to High Temperatures:
High temperatures can reduce the strength of steel structures. If the temperature of the steel framework reaches 500 to 600 degrees Celsius, it can jeopardize the stability of the building.
Degradation and Corrosion:
Steel components are susceptible to weathering, which can reduce their dimensions. Therefore, maintenance and protection can be costly.
Buckling of Compression Members:
The tendency for buckling in steel components poses a challenge due to the small dimensions of the steel parts.
Poor Welding Quality:
Connections between steel components in buildings are made using rivets, bolts, and welding. While using bolts is a cost-effective method, it is less common in our country for various reasons. As a result, welding is more prevalent.
However, due to the insufficient skills of some welders, outdated equipment, lack of thorough inspections by supervising engineers, high testing costs, and other factors, welded connections can have weaknesses.
