A structural steel frame is a load-bearing steel system designed to serve as the primary framework in construction projects. To accommodate different building functions, loads, and usage conditions, structural steel frames are available in various types, each offering optimal solutions for specific applications.
TYPES OF STRUCTURAL STEEL FRAMES
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Skeleton Steel Framing
Skeleton steel framing consists of vertical columns and horizontal beams connected by bolts or specialized welding methods. The exterior is often enclosed with curtain walls or lightweight materials.
This type of steel frame structure is typically fabricated from high-strength steel to withstand heavy loads or galvanized/painted steel for corrosion resistance.
Advantages: Provides large open spaces, high load capacity, and easy expansion when needed.
Disadvantages: Higher initial investment costs and regular maintenance requirements.
Suitable applications: High-rise buildings, shopping malls, hotels, convention centers, etc.
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Wall-Bearing Frames
Wall-bearing frames rely on load-bearing walls combined with steel columns and beams to support the loads from floors and roofs. The walls are first constructed along the perimeter and within the building, followed by the installation of the steel frame structure for additional support.
This structural system mainly uses hot-rolled or cold-formed steel:
Hot-rolled steel: Offers higher load capacity but involves a more complex and costly fabrication process.
Cold-formed steel: More economical but with limited load-bearing capacity, making it unsuitable for high-rise commercial projects.
Suitable applications: Low-rise residential buildings, small to medium-sized workshops, retail stores, etc.
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Long-Span Frames
Long-span frames include steel trusses, arches, or space frames that distribute loads evenly. Their key advantage is the ability to span long distances without intermediate columns, creating wide open spaces. The structural components are connected using welded, bolted, or pinned joints to ensure high load resistance.
This frame type typically uses high-strength steel to reduce overall weight, combined with lighter steel for secondary structures. Most components require hot-dip galvanizing or epoxy coating for corrosion and rust protection.
Suitable applications: Stadiums, sports arenas, exhibition centers, steel bridges, etc.
ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF STRUCTURAL STEEL FRAMES
Compared with reinforced concrete structures, steel frames offer superior load capacity, construction speed, and design flexibility for commercial buildings. Key benefits include:
– High load capacity and durability
Fabricated from high-strength steel, these steel structures can withstand heavy loads, ensuring safety and long service life.
– Flexible design
Capable of long spans, steel frame structure create wide open spaces without excessive columns, optimizing usable areas for offices, shopping centers, and warehouses.
– Faster construction
Structural steel buildings can save 30–50% of construction time compared to concrete projects. Since components are precisely fabricated at the factory, on-site work is minimized.
– Sustainable economics
Steel structures can be dismantled and recycled efficiently, reducing costs if investors decide to repurpose or relocate the building.
CONSTRUCTION PROCESS OF STRUCTURAL STEEL FRAMES
While structural steel frames significantly shorten construction timelines, fabrication and installation must still ensure quality, accuracy, and compliance with technical standards. The typical structural steel process includes:
– Detailed planning and project design
– Steel fabrication at the factory: cutting and shaping, welding, surface treatment, quality inspection
– Transportation of steel components to the construction site
– Frame assembly and erection
– Enclosure installation and integration of building systems
– Final inspection and project handover
FIRE PROTECTION SOLUTIONS FOR STRUCTURAL STEEL FRAMES
A common concern for investors when choosing structural steel frames is fire resistance in commercial buildings. Popular fireproofing methods include:
– Intumescent fireproof coatings: Expand when exposed to heat, forming an insulating layer that protects the steel from high temperatures.
– Sprayed fire-resistant materials (SFRM): Cement, gypsum, or mineral fiber-based coatings sprayed directly onto steel surfaces for thermal insulation.
– Fire-resistant cladding: Encasing steel components with gypsum boards, mineral wool, or fiber cement boards.
– Concrete encasement: Embedding steel elements within reinforced concrete to provide protection against heat.
Based on functionality, load requirements, environmental conditions, and budget, investors must select the most suitable type of structural steel frame for their projects. More importantly, choosing a reliable construction contractor is a decisive factor to ensure maximum efficiency and long-term success for your commercial building.
If you’re looking for a high-quality construction contractor with deep industry expertise and competitive pricing, we would be delighted to explore how we can fulfill your needs.
Contact Newinds today to discuss your requirements
- Email: sales@newindscorp.com
- Phone/Whatsapp: +84 868 482 038