What are the Applications of Structural Steel in the Construction Industry?
Structured steel is a category of steel used to create construction materials formed into different configurations, depending on how it's used. Think of it as the backbone of your construction projects, for it's incredibly versatile and reliable.
Iron and carbon are two of the main elements of structured steel. The more carbon is added, the greater the strength of the steel. Other chemicals are also added to enhance strength, improve the economics of use and deliver less or more ductility.
Uses of Structural Steel
One of the most important resources in the construction industry is structured steel. Below are its common uses:
Bridges - With thousands or millions of cars passing over bridges, the material used in its construction must withstand pressure stress. One of structured steel's biggest benefits is that it can be created to significantly improve strength so that it serves its purpose.
Steel Girders, Box Girders, H Girders, Truss Girders, Pipe Arch Girders, Bailey bridge, accessories and other miscellaneous items for bridge construction.
High-Rise Buildings - Structural steel can incredibly resist wind, earthquakes, or other natural disasters because of its strength and flexibility. They will not break under extreme pressure. Also, when building high-rise structures, it's entirely possible to speed up the construction process with steel.
Industrial Buildings - Structured steel is designed to have a high strength-to-weight ratio and is highly durable. They are also cost-effective, and the pre-made parts are easily assembled. These two factors made structural steel suitable material for industrial structures.
Industrial workshop plants, Processing plants, Power plants
Residential Buildings - Using light gauge steel in residential buildings ensures the structure will last for several years. Also, the flexibility in the structured steel makes them the best material for residential buildings situated near the coast or earthquake faults.
Commercial towers and Public Building- Structural steel is ideal for this type of construction because of its track record of delivering cost-effective and high-quality structures. Structural steel can withstand extreme weather conditions such as rainstorms, hurricanes and earthquakes. They are also adjustable and very flexible.
Depending on the design of the building, the panels can be altered to fit various size requirements. Its versatility allows for more expansion compared to traditionally constructed buildings, shopping center, airport terminal, railway station, stadium, museum, art center, theme park etc.
PORT STRUCTURES AND MARINE WORKS- Steel is suitable for port infrastructure and marine structures especially in high design loads however it may corrode when exposed to oxygen and salt water. But it can be minimized so long as there is a planned maintenance system. Also, it's preferred in these types of structure compared to reinforced concrete due to high labor associated in concrete structure.
Pontoons, Gangways, headstocks, pile heads, mooring dolphins, berthing Dolphins, dredging, Jackets , and accessories, Navigation beacon.
HYDRO POWER & WIND FARM- Steel is required in these types of construction. Without it, it would not be possible to create a renewable energy source such as wind turbine or hydro power. It plays a crucial role in all renewables especially wind and solar — both require tons of steel.
Penstocks, water gate, trash racks, Pile legs, towers , foundation embedment
MODULES & OFFSHORE PLATFORMS- Offshore structures, large oil ducts and drilling structures are made of steel. The usual method is fusion welding where the joining material is the same as the base material.
Marine structure module, processing module, floating module, subsea modules, platforms, risers and jackets.
Fabricating steel is a complex process and should be handled correctly as there are risks involved. Your project's long-term viability may be compromised when the structured steel doesn't meet industry standards for composition and tolerances. In the US, steel grades are regulated by ASTM International. It's crucial that you hire third-party fabricators as they strictly adhere to industry standards.
The fabrication process involves cutting the structural steel, bending, and assembling them. Welding to combine the structures together is also crucial to making the material stronger. The ability to mold and bend steel into a variety of shapes and sections make them the most versatile and cost-effective construction material. It's also 100 percent recyclable, making them the most sustainable option.
However, it's essential that you hire the right fabricator. We suggest that you go with third-party steel fabricators as they have more experience and are incredibly competent are fabricating them.
That's where ESC Steel Structures comes in. We are the top provider of structural steel fabrications worldwide. Our goal is to consistently provide high-quality and timely delivery of our products. Contact us today for a consultation.