7 Methods of Steel Construction Design Explained

Steel: The Backbone of Construction

Steel is the backbone of the construction industry and a driver of many economies globally. Its versatility makes it the material of choice for most construction projects. Steel is also lighter and less bulky compared to other construction materials. Moreover, steel is a strong and durable construction material that fits almost every project, including steel construction buildings. Here, we discuss various steel construction methods and designs to help expand your knowledge of steel applications in the industry.

Conventional Steel Fabrication

Conventional steel fabrication is the traditional method of constructing steel structures. The process involves designing, measuring, cutting, bending, and welding steel plates and sections to create the desired structure. This method can take place at the construction site or in a steel fabrication shop. However, most contractors prefer fabricating the steel at a shop and transporting the finished product to the construction site for a faster and safer installation process.

Fabricating at a shop enhances efficiency by reducing material wastage and onsite construction time. The overall construction cost also decreases due to improved efficiency. A factory setting allows for advanced technology applications and automated machinery, lowering labor costs. Onsite conventional fabrication, on the other hand, is labor-intensive and time-consuming.

Bolted Steel Construction

Bolted steel construction is an advancement of conventional steel fabrication. In this method, most of the work is done in a fabrication shop, where steel components are prefabricated and transported to the construction site for assembly. These components are then bolted together to create a steel construction building or structure.

The factory setup enhances fabrication efficiency since the shops provide the right working conditions, including optimal lighting, advanced technology, and protection from weather anomalies. Once the fabrication and painting are complete, the steel components are transported using trucks. The size of the steel members depends on the transport truck or trailer, which typically ranges from 20 to 40 feet. Oversized loads can be accommodated with added costs, which may still be more economical than onsite fabrication.

Many construction firms prefer bolted steel construction due to its quick installation time and reduced need for field welding. Additionally, bolted steel construction is cost-effective compared to conventional steel fabrication, making it a preferred method for industrial buildings, warehouses, and other large structures.

Light Gauge Steel Construction

Light gauge steel construction uses thin steel sections that are cold-formed into shapes in a shop and assembled on-site. This method is particularly popular for residential and small buildings, especially in areas with high seismic activity. It allows for the creation of walls similar to wood framing but with enhanced durability and strength.

The steel sheets used in this method are galvanized to prevent rust and corrosion, increasing their longevity. Unlike wood, steel is more resistant to pests, mold, and fire. Light gauge steel is also more flexible than wood, allowing for greater design possibilities and modifications.

Another major advantage of light gauge steel is its environmental sustainability. Steel can be recycled or reassembled into a new steel construction building, preserving natural resources and reducing the environmental impact of construction.

Modular Steel Construction

In modular steel construction, complete building modules or units are fabricated in a factory and assembled on-site. These modules are constructed in standard sizes and shapes that can be stacked to create a variety of building designs. Some modular units are prefabricated as entire rooms or specific sections, such as washrooms or elevator shafts.

One of the primary benefits of modular steel construction is the speed of installation. Since the prefabricated units are manufactured in a controlled environment, contractors can transport and assemble them quickly on-site, achieving installation rates of 6–8 units per day. Modular steel construction is also cost-effective due to economies of scale in factory production.

Steel Frame Construction

Steel frame construction is a method that utilizes steel to create the structural framework of a steel construction building. This framework consists of steel columns and beams that support the building’s weight and loads. The steel components are prefabricated off-site and assembled on-site.

Steel frame construction offers several advantages over other construction methods. Steel is lighter and less bulky than materials like concrete, which reduces foundation costs and overall construction expenses. It is also stronger and more durable, capable of withstanding earthquakes and harsh weather conditions.

Composite Steel Construction

Composite steel construction combines steel with other materials, such as concrete or wood, to create structures with enhanced strength and stability. This method has several benefits, making it a popular choice for steel construction buildings.

One key advantage is cost-effectiveness. By incorporating composite materials, the amount of concrete required is reduced, leading to lower material costs. Additionally, composite steel structures are lighter, which minimizes foundation expenses. This method also promotes environmental sustainability by reducing the volume of materials needed in construction, ultimately lowering the project's carbon footprint.

Pre-Engineered Steel Construction

Pre-engineered steel construction is a modern building technique that uses pre-designed and pre-fabricated steel components that are assembled on-site. This process allows for the rapid construction of steel construction buildings tailored to commercial, industrial, and agricultural applications.

Pre-fabrication is performed using computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) software, ensuring precision and customization. The controlled factory environment makes pre-engineered steel construction cost-effective while producing durable and high-quality buildings.

Learn More About Steel Construction

RK Steel plays a critical role in many of RK’s construction projects. Our extensive experience and expertise in steel construction set the foundation for fabricating and installing structural and custom steel. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist with your next steel construction building project.