Steel Buildings in Europe

Part 1: Architect’s Guide 1 - 7 Flat Wide Profile Narrow profile Micro profile Trapezoidal Corrugated Figure 1.8 Typical cladding profiles Steel members can be joined using a wide variety of techniques including welding and bolting; connection design is an important part of any structural system. Connection arrangements can be highly standardised or unique to suit a complex form. In expressed steelwork, connections often become important architectural elements in their own right. 1.2 Steel in single storey buildings A steel building for commercial, industrial or agricultural use is typically a single storey, single span or multi-span building. Both building length and building width are much larger than the height of the building. Building functions include warehouses, distribution centres, retail outlets, exhibition spaces, sports halls and a wide range of commercial premises. Each building type has its own specific requirements with regard to the internal space, though most require a space that is either entirely clear of structural members, or has internal columns reduced to a minimum. Usually, the structure is specifically designed for its purpose. For manufacturing and warehouse structures, economics and flexibility often have a greater influence than the appearance of the building. For other buildings, the appearance of the structure is more important and fabricated steelwork may be used to form architecturally appealing structures. Buildings which are designed to be adaptable retain their value, as it is possible to divide, combine or extend them in the future. The re-usability of the building is a major factor when deciding between renovation and rebuilding. Depending on the function of the building, the architect’s brief will determine the basic layout of the structure. The structural engineer will have a wide choice of structural concepts, including simple frames, portal frames, trusses and arches. These solutions may range from the entirely functional for greatest economy to rather more adventurous architecture and external appeal.