With the integration of technology, rapid advancements have been made in the AEC (Architecture, Engineering and Construction) industry, significantly enhancing construction processes. One such advancement is the development of Pre Engineered Buildings (PEB), which have led to a technological and building revolution, especially in industrial construction. Read on to learn all about what a PEB is, components of engineered buildings and the pros and cons of an engineered structure.
What are Pre Engineered Buildings?
A Pre Engineered Building (PEB) is one whose design and manufacture happen in a factory off-site. Software such as STAAD Pro and MBS (Metal Building Software) are used by structural engineers and pre engineered building suppliers to design structures that fulfil aesthetic and structural requirements. These designs are then utilised to manufacture all the building components in controlled factory settings. All the components are transported and installed on-site, streamlining the construction process effectively and significantly reducing labour requirements.
Pre Fabricated vs Pre Engineered Structures
In a prefabricated building, the manufacture of components happens in a factory, while design is generally done separately. The components used are commonly of standard sizes and designs (although customisation is possible, but very expensive). On the other hand, the design of pre engineered buildings and the manufacturing of all their components happens in factories. Every component can easily be customised to suit specific needs and desires. While prefab homes can be observed occasionally in India, pre engineered structures are more often employed for constructing industrial buildings.
Components of a PEB
A Pre Engineered Building typically consists of the following components:
- Foundation: Generally, RCC foundations are constructed on site for PEBs, although different types of stone masonry can also be used. Isolated footings are the most commonly used foundation type for PEBs since there are often large spans between intermediate columns.
- Structural Frame (Primary Members): Once the foundation is built and cured well, steel columns are fixed to it using heavy-duty anchor bolts. Other primary structural members like beams and rafters are then joined to the columns by welding or bolting, forming the main framework responsible for load transfer. High-grade steel in the form of I, C, Z or box sections that have tapered shapes are generally used.
- Wall and Roofing Systems (Secondary Members): The non-load bearing elements, such as purlins, eaves, wall panels, roofing sheets and doors and windows form the secondary members of PEBs. Common roof and wall panel materials include galvanised steel and galvalume sheets.
- Finishing Materials: Although most PEB components are pre-painted (including oxide coatings and paint finishes), additional coatings can be done on-site. Other finishing elements like insulating panels (generally made of rockwool, foam or fiberglass) are also often added in a Pre Engineered Building to ensure efficient thermal insulation and comfortable indoor environments.
Advantages of a Pre Engineered Building Structure
Some of the benefits offered by a pre engineered metal building are:
- Quality Assurance: Most of the components of PEB steel buildings, including the structural members, covering materials and insulating elements, are manufactured under controlled factory conditions (only finishes such as paints are sometimes done on-site). Pre engineered building manufacturers ensure uniform quality and verify the strength and durability levels before supplying the components for construction.
- Reduced Construction Timelines: Every element of an engineered structure is pre-designed and manufactured, allowing property owners to visualise their buildings before construction. This reduces the possibility of future design changes, considerably lowering construction timelines. The actual construction time is also drastically reduced, as it only involves the erection of ready elements on site.
- Minimisation of Errors: Advanced technology and construction software are utilised to design all the components of a PEB, along with details of how they must be joined together and erected. This leaves minimal room for errors during the construction process, also reducing expenditure on unplanned activities.
- Lightweight: PEB steel structures are 30-35% lighter than conventional steel structures and 50% lighter than conventional RCC (Reinforced Cement Concrete) structures. This can reduce the foundation depth, size and costs.
- Customisation: Every component of a Pre Engineered Building is typically designed based on the specific project requirements. All the building aspects, including size, shape, design, materials used and finishes, can be customised to suit individual needs and desires, allowing increased design freedom and versatility.
Applications of Pre Engineered Construction
Pre engineered steel buildings are often utilised in the following settings:
- Industrial Buildings: Large-span buildings with uninterrupted floor spaces are ideal spaces for carrying out manufacturing processes in industries.
- Commercial Structures: Quick erection, customisability and large open spaces mean that commercial PEBs like shopping centres and retail units can have more effective usable areas and earn higher rents.
- Warehouses and Storage Facilities: The inclusion of adequate and effective insulation elements in pre engineered building structures can make them ideal spaces for storing perishable items or goods that require controlled indoor environments.
- Residences: Although the main living areas are not commonly constructed as pre engineered structures, residential PEBs can offer various benefits like recyclability, customisation and effective thermal insulation. Home extensions like porches, gazebos and pool rooms can especially benefit from this construction method.
- Temporary Structures: Due to their easy and quick erection, components of PEBs can simply be dismantled and reinstalled in different locations, forming ideal temporary structures.
Limitations of a PEB
A PEB presents the following challenges:
- Cost: Although labour costs are minimised while constructing a PEB, charges for designing, manufacturing, transport and installation may be very high. However, long-term durability and energy efficiency can often justify the high PEB building cost.
- Fire Resistance: Due to the use of highly conductive materials like steel and aluminium, PEBs can be highly susceptible to fires. The use of insulating materials can help increase the fire resistance of such buildings.
- Aesthetics: Although designs and colours can be customised, PEBs are often considered to have an industrial look and feel. Additionally, such buildings can experience corrosion and rusting unless subjected to periodic maintenance and repainting/recoating.
Constructing Modern Pre Engineered Buildings
With advancements in technology, the cost of constructing Pre Engineered Buildings is reducing everyday. Widespread demand due to the many benefits that these buildings offer, such as quick construction and lightweight structures, also mean that this technology is rapidly gaining popularity. Brick & Bolt, a tech-enabled company in India, strives to integrate progressive technologies in all its building projects. For constructing your dream home with the most modern facilities offered by the industry, contact Brick & Bolt today!