As you know, steel has long been a cornerstone of the industry, valued for its strength, versatility, and efficiency. Those who use steel in their construction projects, which is just about everyone in the construction world, know the value of this specific type of material. They know that its tough qualities and its versatile use make it a top notch option.
Those who are unfamiliar with the use of steel, or who are exploring construction options and have run into steel a few times, might need a little more encouragement when deciding to use this material. If you fall into this particular category, we have just the blog for you.
Industry Changing Steel Product Innovations
Like everything else in the world of construction, steel has seen many innovative changes. These are some of the most interesting:
- High-Strength, Low-Alloy (HSLA) Steel: This innovative steel grade boasts superior strength-to-weight ratios, allowing for thinner beams and columns without compromising structural integrity. This translates to lighter-weight structures, reduced foundation requirements, and ultimately, faster construction timelines.
- Self-Healing Concrete with Steel Reinforcement: This revolutionary concept incorporates microscopic steel fibres within pre-cast concrete panels. When cracks appear, the steel fibres bridge the gap, promoting self-healing and minimising the need for future repairs – a game-changer for long-term building performance.
- Metal Building Insulated Panels (MBIPs): These pre-engineered panels combine structural steel framing with an insulated core, offering a single-component solution for walls and roofs. MBIPs provide excellent thermal performance, superior weather resistance, and fast installation, ideal for industrial buildings, warehouses, and cold storage facilities.
Installation Best Practices for Steel Construction
When it comes to making the most of your steel construction process, it is so important to make sure that you use the best practices. Those already in the industry will know all about how to use steel correctly, but whether you are informed or not, this is what you need to know:
- Precision is Key: Steel components are manufactured to exact tolerances. Ensure your team utilises proper lifting equipment and practices meticulous alignment during erection to maintain structural integrity and prevent future issues.
- Welding Expertise: Steel structures often rely on welded connections for strength. Invest in qualified welders who adhere to industry standards and employ non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques to verify weld quality and ensure a seamless, secure connection.
- Fireproofing Considerations: Steel offers inherent fire resistance, but some applications may require additional fireproofing measures. Work closely with engineers and material suppliers to choose the appropriate fireproofing materials and ensure proper application according to building codes.
Steel remains a contractor’s choice for a reason.