Steel beams are steel structures made to hold heavy weight and increase structural integrity. They are mostly used in the steel structure of buildings, highways, and bridges. They can be curved or straight as per the need. The design specifications are based on its geometry, shape, and size. As there are various kinds of beams available, one can use the best to fit their design.
Steel beams are available in various types. There are fixed beams, simply supported beams, over-hanging beams, cantilever beams, continuous beams, trussed beam and many more. To get stability and flexibility in the construction structure, use of continuous steel beam is highly recommended. Continuous steel beams are made by joining two or more beams with the help of multiple beam support. The spans are generally placed in a straight line with two or more supports at the length of every beam that is used.
Continuous steel beams allow for the construction of large and high door openings, bridges, multi-storey buildings, roof structures and much more. One needs to design the continuous steel beam frame they need based on the construction structure they are planning to make.
It is necessary to be sure about the directional forces that are prevalent while determining realistic beam and column section sizes. For example, in floor and roof structures, the loading will primarily be vertical.
Here are some advantages and disadvantages of the continuous steel beam in construction.
Advantages
When beams have the same span and section, the vertical load capacity of the beam increases
Deflection of the mid-span is reduced when using continuous beams
When used in bridges, continuous beams reduce the number of decks and bearings that are to be used. Hence, there is less maintenance
The number of anchorages of tendons used is reduced in construction
The load path is redundant. This opens up the possibility for creation of hinges in extreme situations
Using these beams is quite economical as the design not only strengthens the structure but minimizes the weight and material cost too
These beams have lower sensitivity to vibrations and can perform better in load reversal conditions like earthquakes
Disadvantages
The constructions are complex when using these beams, and hence, needs high skilled team for analyzing and designing procedures
The columns themselves have increased internal forces
Increased shortening of beam causes lateral force on the supporting beams
To learn more about the use of continuous steel beam construction in your steel structure plan and get it designed according to your construction purpose, contact the experts of steel fabrication company.
