steel structural basics

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Chapter 4Structural Steel Construction

Structural Steel Construction • Structural Steel Construction

Methods • Structural Steel Members • Fastening Systems •

Panel Members

Chapter 4 — Structural Steel Construction

Structural steel members are erected, braced, and secured together to create a structural framework.


In beam and column construction, beams and girders support floor and roof loads and distribute the loads to the vertical columns.


In long span construction, long distances are spanned with built-up structural steel girders and trusses.


In wall bearing construction, horizontal steel beams and joists are supported by other construction materials such as masonry.


Pre-engineered metal buildings consist of prefabricated structural steel members including beams, columns, girts, and trusses.


Erection plans provide information regarding structural steel construction.


A dimensioned grid of letters and numbers provides reference points on erection plans.


Various types and grades of steel are used in structural steel construction.


A variety of steel shapes are commonly used in structural steel construction. Standard abbreviations and designations are included on erection plans to indicate structural steel members.


Shop drawings provide detailed information required for the fabrication of structural steel members.


Columns are commonly constructed using M-, S-, or wide-flange shapes.


Column locations are shown on erection plans with letter and number designations. Specific information about web depth and weight (in lb/ft) is provided for each column.


Wide-flange beams are identified on erection plans with the letters “W” or “WF”.


Structural steel beams are fabricated based on shop drawings.


Open web steel joists span between beams and girders. The standard designation for open web steel joists includes the nominal depth (in inches), span classification (K, LH, or DLH), and chord diameter.


Erection plans indicate structural steel joist spacing and installation information. Open web steel joists are secured to beams or other supporting members using bolts or by welding.


A wide variety of structural steel shapes are joined together to form a truss. Common steel truss designs include the bowstring, flat, Howe, Pratt, scissors, and Warren.


Bridging and braces maintain alignment between structural steel columns, beams, and joists and increase resistance to loads.


Tie rods are used to brace across long distances.


Proper bolt and nut installation is essential for proper structural fastener performance. Erection plan details are the primary reference for bolted connections.


Ribbed bolts may be used where steel members are drawn tightly together before fastening. High-strength hex head bolts are identified with markings on the bolt head.


Details provide information regarding welded connections.


The standard format used for weld symbols provides information regarding location, length, and type of welded joint.


Steel members may be cut to length using an oxyacetylene cutting torch.


Metal floor decking, manufactured in a variety of designs and dimensions, is attached to the top of open web steel joists to create a floor platform.


Erection plans provide information regarding metal decking installation.


Metal decking may be used as bridge deck forms. The decking remains in place after the shores and falsework are removed.


The exteriors of many light-gauge metal buildings are covered with prefinished metal panels.


Metal roof decking is available in a variety of designs and dimensions.


Roof decks may be formed of metal decking only or covered with waterproofing materials and insulation.

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