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What are the types of steel structures

Time:2025-01-23 13:08:54 Source:Sanjian Meichen Steel Structure

At its core, a steel structure is a framework made primarily of steel members that are connected to support loads and resist forces. These structures can range from small residential buildings to massive skyscrapers, bridges, and industrial complexes. The key is that the structural integrity and load-bearing capacity relies on the properties and arrangement of the steel components.Steel structures are widely used in construction due to their strength, durability, and flexibility. 

Steel Structure Type 

steel structures

1. Frame Structures

Portal Frames: These are commonly used for single-story buildings like warehouses and hangars. They consist of rigidly connected columns and beams that form a portal shape. Portal frames can span large distances and are efficient in terms of material usage.

Moment Frames: These structures rely on the stiffness of beams and columns to resist lateral forces. Moment frames are used in multi-story buildings and are known for their flexibility and ability to resist seismic forces.

Braced Frames: These include concentric and eccentric braced frames. Braced frames use diagonal bracing to resist lateral loads. Concentric bracing is simpler, while eccentric bracing provides better energy dissipation in seismic zones.

2. Truss Structures

Planar Trusses: These are two-dimensional structures made of triangular units. They are used in bridges, roof structures, and industrial buildings. Planar trusses are lightweight and can span long distances.

Space Trusses: These are three-dimensional structures that can cover large areas without intermediate supports. They are commonly used in large-span roof structures like sports arenas and exhibition halls.

3. Space Frame Structures

These are three-dimensional frameworks made of interconnected struts and nodes. Space frames are highly efficient for large-span applications like domes, hangars, and airport terminals. They distribute loads evenly and provide a high degree of structural redundancy.

4. Lattice Structures

Lattice structures consist of diagonal members that form a grid-like pattern. They are used in transmission towers, lattice girders, and other applications where high strength-to-weight ratios are required.

5. Plate Girder Structures

Plate girders are deep beams made of steel plates and are used to support heavy loads over long spans. They are commonly used in bridges and heavy industrial buildings. Plate girders can be designed with varying depths to optimize material usage.

steel structures

6. Tubular Structures

Circular Hollow Sections (CHS): These are used in columns, beams, and trusses. They have a high strength-to-weight ratio and are resistant to torsion.

Rectangular Hollow Sections (RHS): These are used in similar applications to CHS but have a rectangular cross-section. They are often used in architectural applications due to their aesthetic appeal.

7. Composite Steel Structures

Steel-Concrete Composite Beams: These combine steel beams with concrete slabs. The steel beam provides strength, while the concrete slab adds stiffness and fire resistance. They are commonly used in building floors.

Composite Columns: These columns combine steel with concrete to provide high strength and ductility. They are used in tall buildings and heavy industrial structures.

8. Special Structures

Domes and Shells: These are curved structures made of steel plates or trusses. They are used in sports arenas, planetariums, and other large-span applications.

Towers and Masts: These are tall structures used for communication, observation, or supporting heavy equipment. They are designed to resist wind and seismic loads.

Each type of steel structure has its own advantages and is chosen based on the specific requirements of the project, such as span, load conditions, and environmental factors.

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Continue Reading Jul 23, 2025