Steel has been used as a structural material since the 1850s, eventually replacing the use of wrought iron thanks to its superior durability and strength. Today, structural steel is a vital component of any modern construction site.
In this guide, our experts will explain exactly what structural steel is and explore its uses and benefits to help you determine if it’s right for your next project.
What Is Structural Steel?
Firstly, let’s define ‘steel’: an iron alloy with small amounts of carbon, and structural steel is specifically designed to form skeletal, load-bearing frames of buildings, bridges, or other industrial structures.
The reason steel became so widely used is due to its resilience and robustness, but also for its ability to be shaped and fabricated into a wide range of forms to suit project needs, including I-beams, channels, angles, and hollow sections.
What Is Structural Steel Fabrication?
Structural steel fabrication is the process of cutting, bending, drilling, and assembling the structural steel to create the custom frames needed for construction projects. It requires precision engineering to ensure integrity and compliance.
Here’s a breakdown of the process:
- Consultation & Design: This essential phase will ensure the structural steel will meet the building and project requirements.
- Cutting & Shaping: The steel is then cut and bent into the chosen shapes using precise, high-tech machinery.
- Welding & Assembly: Professional welders will ensure the steel components are assembled accurately for strength and stability.
- Finishing & Installation: The structure is then cleaned, and a coating, such as paint, is added to prevent corrosion before being installed.
To learn more about the fabrication process, watch this introductory video.
At King Site Services, we handle every stage of the fabrication process, from design to installation. Having the necessary skills and experience is crucial during structural steel fabrication, as this helps to ensure that the project runs smoothly without needing to consult multiple suppliers.
What Are the Typical Uses of Structural Steel?
Structural steel is a versatile material with a variety of capabilities, including:
- Commercial Buildings: From offices to retail units and warehouses, structural steel creates a strong and reliable structural framework
- Industrial Projects: Heavy-duty structures such as factories and plants benefit from the strength of structural steel.
- Infrastructure: Durability and hardiness make structural steel the best choice for bridges and other transport structures.
- Residential Construction: Structural steel doesn’t need to be used for very large buildings; it is also used for extensions, frames and multi-storey builds.
The 5 Benefits of Structural Steel
- Strength: Steel has a high strength-to-weight ratio; it’s 2.5 times denser than aluminium and has a 20,000 psi higher tensile strength than that of iron.
- Construction: Structural steel has a fast construction time as it’s produced and assembled off-site, helping to minimise operational downtime.
- Sustainability: The environment is very important to us, and that’s one of the reasons we work with steel, as it’s easily recycled, unlike some other metals.
- Cost: Despite structural steel having a high up-front cost, its cost efficiency over time means money is saved with fast installation times and low maintenance.
- Design Flexibility: As steel can be used alongside other materials, almost anything is possible to meet project needs.
Why Choose King Site Services for Structural Steel?
At King Site Services, we’ve been supporting our clients with their construction and engineering needs for over 30 years. Our team of experienced professionals always take a dynamic and customer-focused approach to every project, offering quality workmanship and reliability.
We specialise in the fabrication and installation of structural steel, working with you at every stage to provide practical and efficient solutions. If you’re planning a project and need expert support, we can help with our bespoke solutions.
To find out more about our services, get in touch with the team on 01639 884 669 or at enquiries@kingsiteservices.com.