In the load-bearing structure system of a steel frame factory, besides steel columns, two terms often mentioned are steel trusses and steel beams. Although they are both important components, many people are often confused about their functions and locations.
1. Steel beam (Beam): Horizontal load bearing foundation
Steel beams is a horizontal structural member whose main task is to withstand bending loads.
- Role: Beams function to support the members above them and transfer horizontal loads to columns or larger beams. The types of loads that beams must bear include the loads of floors, walls, roofs, and machinery placed on the floor.
- Structure: Steel beams are typically I- or H-shaped to optimize bending capacity. A typical steel beam consists of two main components: the web (the vertical plate in the middle) and the flange (the horizontal plates at the top and bottom).
- Classification & Application:
- Main beam (Floor beam): Supports the entire floor system and secondary beams, then transmits the force to the columns.
- Secondary beams: Support the floor slab directly and transmit the force to the main beam.
- Crane beam: In the factory, this is a specialized beam to support the rail for the crane to move.
2. Steel truss (Rafter/Truss): The frame of the roof structure
Steel trusses (or truss) is a detail of the roof structure, with the function of supporting and bearing the roof system and connecting the roof with other parts such as columns.
- Role: Steel trusses together with purlins form the main load-bearing frame for the roof, receiving loads from roofing sheets (corrugated iron), wind loads, roof repair loads, etc. and transmitting them to the columns.
- Structure: Steel trusses are usually in the shape of an isosceles triangle to create a slope for the two roofs. In pre-engineered steel buildings, trusses are usually structural members with variable cross-sections (large in the middle and gradually smaller on both sides) to optimize materials.
- Application: Steel trusses are an indispensable component in sloping roof systems of factories, warehouses, gymnasiums, etc.
3. Core differences between Steel Trusses and Steel Beams
For easy distinction, we can summarize the main differences in the following table:
| Criteria | Steel beam (Beam) | Rafter |
| Location | Horizontal, part of a floor system or supporting other structures. | Lying on its side, it is part of the roof structure. |
| Main function | Bending, supporting floors, walls, and secondary beams. | Support the roof system (purlins, roofing sheets), creating a slope for the roof. |
| Typical shape | I-shaped cross-section, H remains unchanged. | Triangular shape, variable cross section (beveled). |
Basically, it can be said that A truss is a special type of beam designed specifically for roof structures.
4. The perfect combination: Beam - Truss structure system in reality
In a typical factory frame, columns, beams and trusses are tightly combined to form a solid spatial system. Steel trusses are rigidly connected to the column heads. Floor beams (if there is a mezzanine floor) or crane beams will be connected to the column body at different heights. All together form a complete load-bearing system, ensuring the stability and safety of the project.
Accurate calculation and design of truss system is the key factor determining the quality and cost of a pre-engineered steel building project.
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- 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.
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