Steel structure construction has the following prominent features:
1. High Strength and Lightweight
Material Advantages: Steel has high strength (5-10 times that of concrete), allowing for smaller cross-sections under the same load. The self-weight of steel structures is light (about 60% of concrete structures), reducing foundation costs.
Large-Span Capability: Ideal for long-span spaces like stadiums and airport terminals.
2. Fast Construction Speed
Prefabrication + On-Site Assembly: Components are factory-produced with high precision; on-site assembly involves only bolting or welding, shortening construction time by 30%-50% compared to traditional methods.
Minimal Wet Work: No concrete curing time required, reducing weather-related delays.
3. Excellent Seismic Performance
High Ductility: Steel can absorb seismic energy and undergo plastic deformation without sudden failure (e.g., steel structures performed well in the 1995 Kobe earthquake).
4. High Space Utilization
Compact Sections: Steel columns and beams have smaller cross-sections than concrete, increasing usable space (by about 5%-10%).
Flexible Layouts: Allows for large column-free spaces, adapting to functional changes.
5. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
Recyclable: Over 80% of steel can be recycled after demolition, reducing construction waste.
Green Construction: Low noise and dust emissions, aligning with prefabricated building trends.
6. Adaptability to Complex Shapes
High Malleability: Suitable for curved and irregular designs (e.g., CCTV Headquarters "Big Pants," Bird’s Nest Stadium).
7. Challenges and Solutions
Corrosion & Fire Resistance: Requires fireproof coatings (e.g., thin-film or thick-film) and anti-corrosion treatments (galvanization, epoxy resin).
Complex Joint Design: BIM modeling is essential to avoid stress concentration.
Cost Sensitivity: Steel prices fluctuate, but economies of scale can reduce overall expenses.
Typical Applications
Skyscrapers: Shanghai Tower (632m, steel frame + core tube system).
Industrial Buildings: Factories, warehouses (e.g., Tesla Gigafactory).
Temporary Structures: Emergency hospitals (modular rapid assembly).
Future Trends
Smart Construction: Robotic welding, 3D-printed joints.
High-Performance Steel: Q460 high-strength steel, weathering steel (maintenance-free).
Steel structures, with their efficiency, flexibility, and sustainability, are a key choice for modern architecture, especially for projects with tight schedules, complex designs, or high seismic requirements.