When choosing a construction solution, in addition to the advantages, smart investors always carefully consider the disadvantages and potential risks. For steel structures, the two most common issues of concern are fire resistance and corrosion resistance.
This article will objectively compare these two aspects between steel and reinforced concrete structures, and propose effective protection solutions that are currently being applied.
1. Fire Resistance: Concrete Has Natural Advantages
This is an area where reinforced concrete has a clear advantage.
- Reinforced concrete: Concrete itself is a non-combustible material and has good heat resistance. The outer protective layer of concrete prevents the steel reinforcement inside from being directly exposed to high temperatures for a long period of time, helping the structure maintain its load-bearing capacity in the event of a fire.
- Steel structure: Steel does not burn, but it will start to lose its mechanical properties (strength, hardness) when the temperature reaches about 500-600°C. If not protected, steel structures can deform and collapse rapidly in a large fire.
Effective fire protection solutions for steel structures
Fortunately, this drawback can be completely overcome with modern technical solutions, helping steel structures meet the most stringent fire prevention and fighting standards:
- Fireproof paint: As the most popular solution, these special coatings swell when exposed to high temperatures, forming a porous carbon insulation layer that protects the steel components inside.
- Fireproof concrete or mortar lining: Spray or plaster a layer of concrete or specialized mortar on the outside of the steel structure to create an insulating shell.
- Use of fireproof panels: Use fireproof panels (gypsum, mineral panels, etc.) to wrap around steel structures.
With these solutions, steel structures can achieve the required fire resistance limit, ensuring safety for the construction.
2. Corrosion Resistance: The Battle Against the Environment
Corrosion (rust) is the natural enemy of steel.
- Steel structure: If not protected, steel will oxidize when exposed to air and moisture, causing rust and reducing the bearing cross-section of the structure.
- Reinforced concrete: The alkaline concrete layer creates a passive protective environment for the steel reinforcement inside, preventing corrosion. However, if the concrete is cracked or of poor quality, corrosive agents can still penetrate and cause rust to the steel reinforcement.
Comprehensive anti-corrosion solution for steel structures
Similar to fire protection, corrosion problems can be effectively controlled:
- Surface Cleaning: This is the most important step. The steel surface must be completely cleaned of rust and grease by methods such as shot blasting and sand blasting before painting.
- Protective coating: Use a multi-layer paint system, including anti-rust primer and finishing color coats. Epoxy, polyurethane paints… have very good environmental resistance.
- Hot dip galvanizing: For structures in highly corrosive environments (coastal areas, chemical plants), the method of immersing the entire structure in a molten zinc bath will create a durable protective layer that can last for decades.
Conclusion: Although reinforced concrete has natural advantages in fire resistance and corrosion resistance for internal steel reinforcement, with today's advanced technologies and protection solutions, the disadvantages of steel structures can be completely overcome. Choosing and implementing the right protection solutions from a reputable contractor such as Hai Long Construction will ensure that your steel frame construction is both safe and durable over time.
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, with a capacity of nearly 50.000 tons/year, ensuring fast, 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, Hong Bang Ward, Hai Phong City, Vietnam.
- Hotline: 084 6625 888
- Email: info@hailongjsc.vn
