Structural steel fabrication is one of the most innovative contributors to the construction world. Structural steel framing, in particular, makes up the backbone of any steel-based construction project.
It includes vertical and horizontal structural elements created by an arrangement of steel beams and columns. The spacing, shape and size of the framing is flexible and can go as per the architectural requirements.
Structural steel framing is the most sought-after framing material used in public buildings across the US. Bracing incorporated into a steel frame enhances the lateral stability to stand against wind loading and seismic pressure.
The bracing also involves structural steel fabrication that works effectively against tension and compression.
An Award-Winning Structural Steel Frame Design
The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) conducted national awards for best steel-frame construction work in 2015. It is recognised as ‘The Innovative Design in Engineering and Architecture with Structural Steel Awards’. One of the public monuments that were honoured is Denver Union Station in Denver.
[Read more: Ideas2 Awards – Entries For The 2020 Ideas2 Awards Are Now Open! Link: https://www.aisc.org/ideas2/]
Costing less than $15 million, Denver Union Station received recognition in both architectural and structural steel fabrication design approach.
Structural engineers and architects worked closely to design station platform canopies, steel-and-fabric pavilions, a pedestrian bridge and the commuter rail train hall structure. The hall structure spanning 180 ft across multiple railway tracks got the most of the recognition. Its design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Architecturally Exposed Structural Steel (AESS) was not used for all of the exposed steel. Instead, the architects and engineers applied only to the features that were crucial for the project’s success. This lead to a significant reduction in the overall construction cost.
The design was accomplished while staying within the budget. This was done by implementing structural steel fabrication techniques and materials. To ensure the long-term durability of the coating system, all steelwork was blast cleaned. The outcome was a fresh, contemporary, machine-like aesthetics, without using expensive custom castings.
The Denver Union Station is one-of-a-kind structural steel construction in the US. It set new benchmarks in the country for achieving high sustainability goals. Owing to the fact, it is a LEED Silver-certified transportation hub.
Benefits Of Innovative Structural Steel Frame Buildings
- Easy to construct
- Fire-resistant
- Rapid construction
- Off-Site fabrication
- Resilient against earthquakes and wind loading
- High ratios of strength to weight and strength to volume
- Low construction cost
- Hybrid construction capability
- Environment-friendly
- Lighter than wood