Introduction

Structural steel is an alloy steel that is regulated in its chemical composition to produce steel of different dimensions and properties. These can be easily moulded into different shapes and sizes. The main elements of structural steel are carbon (less than 0.25%) and manganese (less than 1.5%) which are used to increase the yield strength of the steel. These are cost-effective and have a good strength/weight ratio. Structural steel is used primarily to counter the low tensile strength and ductility of concrete.

Structural steel is mainly used in the construction of high-rise buildings, industrial buildings and bridges. Its high ductility allows it to withstand adverse weather conditions or situations without any difficulty and ensures that the structure doesn’t face any cracks or failure. Additionally, it is economical in the long run.

Types of Structural steel

There are 4 major types of Structural steel

1. Carbon steel
2. High-strength alloy steel
3. Heat-treated carbon steel
4. Fire-resistant steel

Carbon Steel

Carbon steel is the most commonly used steel. As the name suggests, carbon is its most important element, and manganese is next. The addition of carbon to steel increases its strength and tensility. Carbon steel is categorised into low carbon, medium carbon, high carbon and ultrahigh carbon.

High strength alloy steel

Blending different elements like chromium, nickel, and molybdenum can give different properties to the steel-like hardness, ductility and corrosion resistance. The ratio of these elements will affect the final structure and property of the alloy steel.

Heat-treated carbon steel

By treating carbon steel with extra heat, its hardness and strength can be increased. But on the other side, its ductility, flexibility and overall strength will get reduced, and can also make the steel brittle. These are generally used for transmission lines and microwave towers.

Fire-resistant steel

It is also known as Thermo mechanically treated steel (TMT steel bar). It has higher strength as compared to alloy steel and heat-treated carbon steel and can perform better under fire and pressure in comparison to other steel.

Advantages of structural steel

1. Reduction in construction cost and time-saving

Structural steel is considered a cost-effective option. Reduction in the construction timeline will also help in reducing the hours of paid labour. The assembling process in structural steel is faster which will help in saving time. Unlike RCC structures, they can be erected and joined quickly.

2. Flexibility

Steel is a dynamic material that can be converted into different shapes and sizes and doesn’t break or crack like wood or concrete. It doesn’t lose its properties on being moulded or bent. Structural steel is used in both exterior and interior construction of the building.

3. Safety

Safety is the primary property of any building, and Structural steel ensures the same. It is non-combustible, thus preventing fire. It shows resistance to rust and corrosion and doesn’t allow mold formation. It is shockproof and can withstand earthquakes. 

4. Strength

Structural steel has a high strength-to-weight ratio. In simple terms, its tolerance against weaker foundations is higher. It has a high tolerance and high toughness value, which means it can easily absorb energy to a higher extent.

5. Lightweight

It is lighter in comparison to other types of steel. And its high strength-to-weight ratio means that it is lighter in comparison to its weight, and consumes less space. The lightweight will reduce the dead load on the structure which will eventually help in increasing the in-site space.

6.Ductility

Structural steel can easily withstand heavy loads without any cracks or failure. Due to its elastic property, it can easily regain its shape after undergoing pressure or bending. It has better resistance to earthquakes and cyclones, and can easily transfer the seismic tension into the ground.

These were the types and advantages of structural steel. Structural steel has a more appealing and aesthetic purpose and is thus used for stairways, gazebos, railings, platforms and steel frames. Also, its property to mould itself into different shapes and sizes makes it easier to form more complex designs and shapes. Overall, it can be concluded that structural steel along with its strength and resistance also allows being used for ornamental purposes.

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