Why is it necessary to classify steel structures?
When it comes to steel structures, many people generally picture "steel frames" or "prefabricated steel buildings." However, in engineering practice, steel structures... There isn't just one single form., which are divided into different types based on Load-bearing capacity, connection type, and application scope..
The classification of steel structures is not purely academic. On the contrary, it is an important basis for:
- Choose a solution that suits the building's function.
- Optimizing materials and investment costs.
- Control safety, durability, and long-term operational performance.
A building with the wrong structural design might still stand, but inefficientDifficult to construct or incur additional costs during use.
1. Steel frame structures – the most common foundation
Steel frame structures are the most popular type today, especially in factory buildings, industrial warehouses, and light industrial buildings. This structural system includes: steel columns and steel beams/trussesThey are interconnected, forming load-bearing frames in both vertical and horizontal directions.
In practice, steel frame structures are divided into two main types: rigid frame , and bracing frame.
Rigid Frame Structure
A rigid frame is a type of structure in which The connection between the column and the beam is a rigid connection.This allows for the transmission of bending moments. As a result, the frame system can withstand lateral loads (wind, earthquake) well without requiring too many additional bracing systems.
This type of structure is particularly suitable for:
- Industrial factory
- Logistics warehouse
- The project requires an open space with few central columns.
Rigid frames are commonly used in Steel Buildings, combined with the purlin system, roof bracing, and column bracing to form a complete structural system.
Bracing frame structure
Unlike rigid frames, bracing frame structures utilize bracing system (cross bars) to withstand lateral forces, while beam-column connections can be hinged connections.
The advantages of bracing frames are:
- Reduce moments in beams and columns.
- Saving materials in some cases
- Suitable for multi-story buildings or buildings with smaller spans.
However, the bracing system can impact on usable spaceTherefore, careful consideration is needed before implementation.
2. Steel truss structures – a solution for large spans
Steel trusses are a type of structure made from The steel bars are linked together in a triangular shape., working primarily according to tensile and compressive forcesThis type of structure is highly efficient in terms of load-bearing capacity relative to its own weight.
In truss structures, the members are designed to withstand axial loads, which helps to:
- Significantly reduce the amount of steel.
- It can span very large distances without increasing the cross-sectional area.
Steel trusses are commonly used in:
- Large-span factory
- Arena, covered
- Specialized industrial facilities
However, the truss structure has more complex form than rigid frameThis requires precise fabrication and assembly. If the design or construction is not good, the truss may experience local instability.
3. Space steel structures – three-dimensional structures
Space frame steel structures are a type of structure. working in three ways, forming a spatial system with excellent stiffness and load distribution capabilities.
Unlike flat frames or trusses, spatial structures:
- Uniform load bearing
- Less dependent on a few key components
- It has the potential for very large spans.
This type of structure is commonly applied to:
- Station
- Exhibition center
- Large-scale public works
However, higher design, fabrication, and installation costsIt requires specialized technical skills and experience. Not every project is suited to this spatial structure.
4. Composite steel structures and combined structures
In addition to traditional forms, steel structures also exist in practice. combination or combined with other materials.
Composite steel structures typically utilize components welded together from multiple steel plates, with the aim of:
- Increase load-bearing capacity
- Optimize cross-section according to specific requirements.
Meanwhile, steel-concrete composite structures combine the advantages of both materials:
- Steel with good tensile strength
- Concrete has good compressive strength and fire resistance.
This type of structure is commonly found in:
- High-rise building
- Combined floor
- The structure requires high rigidity and fire resistance.
5. Selecting the appropriate type of steel structure for each project.
The selection of steel structure type not based on trends or habits, which needs to be based on:
- Function of use
- Aperture and height
- Loads (especially crane loads)
- Construction progress and conditions
A small factory may only require a simple rigid frame, while a large-span factory or specialized structure may need steel trusses or more complex structural solutions.
The types of steel structures available today are very diverse, each with its own advantages, limitations, and scope of application. There is no single "optimal solution for all projects," only the solution that best suits the specific problem.
Understanding common types of steel structures is a crucial foundation before delving into design, manufacturing, and construction – topics that will be analyzed in more detail in subsequent articles in this series on steel structures.
