SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY

2820/2821 AR 3151/D
BUILDING TECHNOLOGY 3
1st SEMESTER SY.2023-2024

RSW 05
“INTRODUCTION TO STEEL FRAME CONSTRUCTION”
NOVEMBER 30, 2023

GROUP MEMBERS:
BINBINON, Aiza Kate D.
GARCIA, Almarie C.
MEMBRERE, Natasha Angela D.
PIGAO, Alainstair Roe
VALLES, Ashley Gale L.
WANGAG, RJ Brian U.
STEEL FRAME CONSTRUCTION
Steel frame construction is a type of construction that uses steel as the primary structural
material. It is a popular choice for a variety of buildings, including skyscrapers, office
buildings, warehouses, and homes. Steel frame construction is known for its strength,
durability, and versatility.

COMPONENTS OF STEEL FRAME CONSTRUCTION

Steel frame construction components
The main components of steel frame construction are:

• Steel columns: These are the vertical members of the frame that support the weight
of the building.

• Steel beams: These are the horizontal members of the frame that span between the
columns and support the floors and roof.

• Steel connections: These are the joints that connect the columns and beams
together.
TYPES OF STEEL FRAME CONSTRUCTION
Types of steel frame construction
There are two main types of steel frame construction:

• Cold-formed steel (CFS) construction: This type of construction uses thin steel panels
that are formed into shapes such as I-beams, C-channels, and Z-purlins. CFS is a
lightweight and cost-effective option for low-rise buildings.

• Hot-rolled steel (HRS) construction: This type of construction uses thicker steel beams
and columns that are rolled into shape at a steel mill. HRS is a stronger and more
durable option for high-rise buildings and other heavy-duty structures.

BENEFITS OF STEEL FRAME CONSTRUCTION

There are many benefits to using steel frame construction, including:

• Strength: Steel is a very strong material, and steel frame construction can withstand
a lot of weight. This makes it a good choice for buildings that need to be able to
support heavy loads, such as skyscrapers and warehouses.

• Durability: Steel is also a very durable material, and steel frame buildings can last for
many years with minimal maintenance.

• Versatility: Steel frame construction can be used to create a wide variety of building
shapes and sizes. This makes it a good choice for a wide range of applications.
• Sustainability: Steel is a recyclable material, and steel frame buildings can be
designed to be sustainable.
 • Cost-effectiveness: Steel frame construction can be a cost-effective option,
especially for large projects.

APPLICATIONS OF STEEL FRAME CONSTRUCTION

Steel frame construction is used in a wide variety of buildings, including:
• Skyscrapers: Steel frame construction is the most common type of construction used
for skyscrapers.

• Office buildings: Steel frame construction is also a popular choice for office buildings.

• Warehouses: Steel frame construction is a good choice for warehouses because it is

strong and durable.
 • Homes: Steel frame construction is becoming increasingly popular for homes
because it is a sustainable option.

LIGHT – GAUGE STEEL CONSTRUCTION

Light-gauge steel (LGS) construction, also known as cold-formed steel (CFS) construction, is
a type of building construction that utilizes steel framing members made from thin-walled
steel sheets. These sheets are typically rolled or pressed into C-shaped, Z-shaped, or I-beam
shapes. LGS framing is a lightweight and versatile alternative to traditional wood framing,
offering several advantages in terms of strength, durability, and sustainability.

Key Components of Light-Gauge Steel Construction

Light gauge steel construction components

The primary components of LGS construction include:

1. Steel framing members: These include studs, tracks, joists, and girders, forming the
structural skeleton of the building.

2. Sheathing materials: These are applied to the exterior and interior walls and roof to
provide structural support, enclose spaces, and protect against weather elements.
3. Connectors and fasteners: These are used to securely join the framing members and
sheathing materials, ensuring the integrity of the structure.

Advantages of Light-Gauge Steel Construction

LGS construction offers several advantages over traditional wood framing, including:
 1. Strength and Durability: Steel framing is significantly stronger and more durable than
wood, providing superior resistance to fire, wind, and seismic forces.

2. Dimensional Stability: Steel framing is less susceptible to warping, shrinking, or rotting,

ensuring consistent dimensions and long-lasting performance.

3. Lightweight and Versatility: LGS framing is lightweight and easy to handle, making it
suitable for various building types, including residential, commercial, and industrial
structures.

4. Pest Resistance: Steel framing is not susceptible to termite damage, unlike wood
framing, reducing the risk of structural damage and pest infestations.

5. Sustainability: Steel is a recyclable material, promoting sustainable building practices

and reducing environmental impact.

6. Precision and Efficiency: LGS components are manufactured with precise

dimensions and can be prefabricated off-site, leading to faster and more efficient
construction processes.

Applications of Light-Gauge Steel Construction

LGS construction is a versatile and cost-effective solution for a wide range of building
applications, including:
1. Residential Buildings: LGS is widely used in single-family homes, multi-family dwellings,
and townhouses due to its strength, durability, and adaptability to various
architectural designs.

2. Commercial Buildings: LGS is a popular choice for office buildings, retail spaces, and
warehouses due to its ability to span large areas and support heavy loads.

3. Industrial Structures: LGS is often used in industrial buildings, manufacturing facilities,

and storage warehouses due to its fire resistance, strength, and ability to withstand
harsh industrial environments.

4. Schools and Educational Facilities: LGS is increasingly used in schools and

educational facilities due to its durability, fire resistance, and ability to create flexible
and adaptable learning spaces.

5. Healthcare Facilities: LGS is suitable for healthcare facilities due to its cleanability,
durability, and ability to meet stringent hygiene requirements.
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