Choice of structural steel for multi-storey buildings
Factors affecting choice of structural system
The design should ensure a coordinated approach including structure, envelope, services and finishes. The principal decisions regarding structure relate to column layout, foundation conditions, integration of building services, and external wall construction.
Floor systems
The principal structural elements of a typical multi-storey building are the floors, beams, columns and foundations.
Framing schematics for a complete building structure
The most common forms of complete building structure in steel construction are the established composite system and the Slimdek system.
Introduction
Steel framed construction is a very popular structural form for multi-storey buildings as it provides great flexibility.
Structural principles
The structure must have adequate strength and stiffness to resist the applied loads due to gravity and wind. The function of the structure in resisting vertical loads due to gravity and horizontal loads due to wind is generally considered separately.
Vertical bracing systems
A variety of structural forms can be used to provide lateral stability. The principal systems are shear walls, lattice frames and rigid frames, but more sophisticated systems may be needed for very tall buildings.
