Connections in steel structures play an extremely important role in the construction process. Choosing the appropriate steel connection method not only ensures the safety of the project but also helps optimize costs and materials. Let's explore the types of connections in steel structures with Hai Long Construction, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each type in the article below.
1. What is a connection in steel structure?
Steel joints are essential in the construction of structures using this type of structure. Steel joints include components such as nails, bolts and welding, which are used to connect two or more steel members together. They can also be used to connect steel structures to other materials such as brick or concrete. The strength and durability of steel joints depend on the installation process. Therefore, correct installation is a key factor to ensure the effective operation of the joint.
See more: 10 NOTES BEFORE CONSTRUCTION AND ERECTION OF STEEL STRUCTURES
2. Classification of connections in steel structures
Currently, the three most common types of connections in steel structures are: welded connections, bolted connections and riveted connections. Among them, riveted connections are less used due to the difficulty in disassembly and assembly.
2.1. Welded joints
Welding is a common method of joining steel structures. It uses heat (via a flame or an electric arc) to locally heat the metal at the point of contact until it melts and fuses together. After cooling, the metal solidifies and forms the weld.
Classify:
- Manual electric arc welding
- Automatic electric arc welding
- Semi-automatic welding
- Gas welding
Advantages of welded joints:
- The splicing efficiency can reach 100%.
- Can be applied to complex steel structures.
- The process does not cause much noise.
- Save time and costs.
- Light weight, does not put much pressure on steel structures.
Disadvantages of welded joints:
- There is a risk of deformation of the steel structure due to the heating process.
- The weld is prone to cracking.
- Requires highly skilled labor.
- Testing the quality of welds is relatively difficult.
- Fracture of the base metal shell below the weld point may occur.

2.2. Bolt connection
Bolted connections in steel structures have existed for a long time. This method is performed by connecting two parts together with heavy-duty bolts and nuts. Bolted connections have the advantage of being easy to assemble and disassemble, which is very convenient for periodic inspection and maintenance. This type of connection can be applied to tensile or shear members, and even to structures that are both tensile and shear.
Based on the total force transmitted, bolted connections are classified into three main types:
- Concentric Links
- Eccentric link
- Moment-bearing connection
Based on the type of force applied, bolt connections are also divided into three types:
- Shear connection
- Tensile connection
- Combined tensile and shear connections
According to the force mechanism, bolt connections are divided into two types:
- Bearing link
- Friction link
Advantages of bolted connections include:
- Fast installation process.
- No highly skilled personnel required.
- Does not make much noise during operation.
- The structure can be used immediately after bolting is completed.
- Ability to replace structural components if necessary.
However, bolted connections also have some disadvantages:
- Raw material costs are relatively high.
- Bolted connections have limited strength due to reduced thread area and are subject to concentrated stress.
- Bolts are at risk of loosening when exposed to external impacts.
2.3. Rivet connection
Riveting is similar to bolting, both using a component to connect the components together. This method is done by inserting rivets into the holes of the components to be joined and then fixing the ends of the rivets to prevent the components from separating. However, riveting is a fairly old method and is rarely used in practice today.
Rivets can be classified into four main types:
- Hot Drive Rivets
- Factory rivets
- Assembly rivets
- Cold Drive Rivets
Advantages of riveted connections:
- The rivet connection is very strong.
- High strength of rivet connection, suitable for large scale projects.
Disadvantages of riveted connections:
- The installation process creates a lot of noise.
- Highly skilled technicians are required to check the quality of the connection.
- Installation and removal of this link is often time consuming and costly.
WHY SHOULD YOU CHOOSE HAI LONG CONSTRUCTION AS A STEEL STRUCTURE PRODUCTION AND INSTALLATION UNIT?
With more than 25 years of experience in the field of manufacturing & erecting steel structures, Hai Long Construction is proud to be Leading reputable unit, providing customers with complete construction solutions, meeting all needs and requirements.
- Team experienced engineers, architects and experts, knowledgeable about the design and construction of warehouse factories according to international standards.
- Diverse construction capacity, meeting all project sizes and requirements, from simple to complex factories.
- Possessing a system of modern machinery and equipment, three steel structure factories with a productivity of nearly 50.000 tons/year, ensuring quick, accurate and safe construction.
- Professional construction process, is strictly managed.
You are looking for one Prestigious and professional steel structure manufacturing and erection unit? Please contact Hai Long Construction for free consultation and quote:
- HAI LONG CONSTRUCTION JOINT STOCK COMPANY – MEMBER OF TAIYO GROUP
- Address: Taiyo Building, 97 Bach Dang, Ha Ly Ward, Hong Bang District, Hai Phong City, Vietnam.
- Hotline: 084 6625 888
- Email: info@hailongjsc.vn