The stability of very large buildings and structures is ensured with the help of steel columns. They act as the foundational pillars in construction and have been used for various applications in construction. There are various types of columns based on shapes and design; they are used in different structures according to their needs.
These columns are prepared for bearing optimal loads and help in ensuring the stability of the structure. They can also be used for fire resistance and improve durability for environmental factors. This blog will help you understand more about the significance of steel columns that are used in modern construction.
What is a Steel Column?
A steel column is a structural element that is used in buildings and other structures. It is normally in a vertical position and also helps in transferring the structural load downward. It is important for framing any building and also helps in supporting the structure and maintaining its stability.
The basic structure of a steel column is a long vertical element that is made of steel. The thickness and size are made according to the building requirements. Normally, high-strength steel is used so that it has the capacity to withstand heavy loads and forces without any deformation.
Steel columns are connected to the beams with the help of welds or bolts. These connections are solid and stable, so the column can play its role efficiently. The fire resistance is also important in columns, so fire resistance coatings are normally used.
Types of Steel Columns
| Column Type | Description | Unique Characteristics | Typical Use |
| H-Beams | Common structural steel columns with H-shaped cross-section flanges. | Thick flanges provide high strength against bending and twisting. | Widely used in building projects, including universal columns (UC). |
| I-Beams | Steel columns with an I-shaped cross-section and thinner flanges than H-beams. | Thinner flanges and webs make them more efficient and lightweight while still offering strength. | Often used in projects that require strength and material efficiency. |
| Pipe Columns | Cylindrical steel columns that can vary in size and configuration. Often hollow like a pipe. | High resistance to buckling due to their cylindrical shape, and versatile for various configurations. | Commonly used in residential buildings, parking structures, bridges, and large-scale frameworks. |
| Box Columns | Steel columns in a cuboid configuration, typically consisting of four welded steel panels. | Can be hollow or filled with materials like concrete for added strength. Highly rigid and effective in resisting bending. | Suitable for architectural projects, where aesthetics are important, and for use with wiring or air ducts. |
| Steel-Concrete Composite Columns | Columns combining steel and concrete are available in configurations like concrete-filled or concrete-encased steel columns. | Provides combined tensile strength of steel and compressive strength of concrete. High fire resistance and versatility. | Used in high-rise buildings, seismic areas, and projects requiring fire resistance and strong support. |
Uses of Steel Columns
Steel columns are important in the construction of buildings and structural engineering. These columns will provide strength, stability, and durability to buildings. Some of the important uses of steel columns are as follows:
Structural Support
The main purpose of the steel column is to give structural support to buildings. These columns have the capacity to support floors, roofs, and other structural elements that help in keeping the building stable.
Load Bearing Capacity
Steel columns are made by using high-strength materials that can provide them with high load-bearing capacity. Thus, it can be used to support floors on the building on heavy loads.
Durability
The steel column design can help in protecting them from corrosion and weathering and increasing their lifespan. They can also be used along with fire-resistant alloys.
Flexibility
Steel has an inherent flexibility that can help in the absorption of seismic or external forces. Therefore, steel columns can be used in earthquake-prone areas.
Versatility
Steel columns can be produced in different sizes and designs and can also be customized according to the requirements of construction.
Easy Installation
Steel columns are easy to transport and have easy on-site installation. Their installation process can be fast and efficient and can help in reducing the construction time and cost.
Aesthetics
The aesthetic appeal of the building can be improved by using steel columns with different designs. The designs can be sleek and clean, and they can also be good-looking in contemporary buildings.
Hybrid Construction
Steel columns can be combined with other construction materials, like concrete. This can provide a hybrid construction approach that has optimal strength and durability.
Key Considerations While Selecting Steel Columns
Some considerations must be made when choosing the steel columns, such as:
- Fire protection
- Corrosion resistance
- Fabrication and construction methods
- Availability and cost
- Building codes and standards
- Aesthetic considerations
- Seismic considerations
- Future adaptability
The Installation of Steel Structure Columns
1. Understanding the Types of Steel Columns
- Steel columns come in various types, such as single-layer or multi-layer, long or short, with cross-sectional shapes like H, I, O, and more. The selection of the column type depends on the building’s requirements and structural design.
2. Selecting Lifting Points
- Choosing the right lifting points is crucial for safely raising the steel columns. For standard steel columns, a single-point lift at the top is common, but for taller or more flexible columns, using two or three lifting points ensures stability and prevents deformation. If no welded lifting ears are used, it’s important to protect the steel with corner angles and reinforcing ribs at the binding points.
3. Lifting Methods
- Rotation Method: The crane lifts and rotates the column around its base to place it upright.
- Sliding Method: In this approach, the crane lifts the column while sliding the column base along the ground. A smooth sliding path should be provided to minimize friction.
- Delivery Method: Multiple cranes may be used, with one acting as a support while the other lifts. This method helps distribute the load and place the column accurately.
Important Considerations:
- Use cranes of similar types when lifting with multiple machines.
- Load distribution among the cranes should be calculated carefully to avoid overloading.
- Coordinated signals and smooth communication are essential for safety.
4. Installing Light Steel Structure Columns
- Light steel structures, such as portal frame columns, often have an irregular shape with smaller bases and larger tops. Temporary supports should be added to prevent tipping.
- Ensure that the anchor bolts of the column foot are accurately positioned using both right-angle and diagonal measurements.
- Align the column vertically and check measurements against design specifications, following national safety standards.
5. Correcting Steel Column Placement
- After installation, adjustments to the steel columns may be required to ensure accuracy:
- Elevation Correction: Adjust the base elevation using nuts under the column’s bottom plate, allowing for precise adjustments within a ±1mm range. The gap between the column bottom plate and foundation can be filled with non-shrinkage mortar.
- Longitudinal and Transverse Alignment: Use steel punches and alignment tools to ensure proper placement on the foundation cross-line.
- Vertical Deviation Correction: Cable corrections and theodolites are used to ensure that the column is vertically aligned. Tighten bolts after confirming the accuracy.
6. Adjusting High-Rise Structures
- For high-rise steel structures, additional attention is needed for horizontal alignment and column verticality. Measurements and the use of reference points are critical.
- Once the column is hoisted, use cranes to fine-tune the elevation and alignment. Check measurements throughout to ensure that deviations remain within allowable limits (e.g., within 5mm).
7. Installing Roof Trusses
- Reinforceing Steel roof trusses is essential before installation, particularly for double-machine lifting. The truss should be tied at its nodes to prevent bending.
- After positioning the first truss, cables or braces are used for stabilization, and subsequent trusses are installed similarly, with careful attention to verticality and alignment
8. Light Steel Structures:
- Portal frames are common in light structures, with varying cross-sections that require careful balancing during installation.
- Use reliable methods for anchoring bolts, measuring both length and diagonal for precise placement.
9. Post-Installation Considerations:
- Check for deviations in the installed columns, such as horizontal displacement and vertical misalignment, and make necessary adjustments.
- Ensure all bolts are securely tightened to specified torque values, typically using double nuts or welding the nuts in place for additional safety.
Conclusion
Steel columns are important for modern construction, and they provide stability, strength, and durability to buildings. There are different types of steel columns, and each of them has been made for a specific application, and that is based on load-bearing capacity, environmental factors, and design. By understanding the characteristics, the people in construction can select the correct steel columns to ensure the longevity and safety of the structure.
FAQ
The strongest steel column depends on the specific needs of the project. H-beam columns are considered among the strongest because their H-shaped cross-section allows them to bear larger loads compared to other steel columns. This design offers high load-bearing capacity, especially in situations where the column supports heavy and substantial structural elements, such as in high-rise buildings or bridges. However, the strength of a steel column can also be enhanced by the materials used, such as in composite columns where both concrete and steel are used to create a highly durable and strong structural component.
The size of steel columns varies depending on the building’s requirements and the loads they need to support. For example, residential buildings might use smaller columns like a 4″x4″ or 6″x6″ square column. In larger structures, such as commercial buildings, columns can range from 10″x10″ to 18″x18″ or even larger. I-beam or H-beam columns used in heavy construction often have flanges between 6″ and 12″ wide, with the web (vertical section) being as much as 18″ to 36″ high.
The maximum length of a steel column is typically governed by the construction requirements and transportation limits. Steel columns can be fabricated up to lengths of 18 to 24 meters (60 to 80 feet), though longer lengths are possible using spliced or bolted connections at construction sites. However, structural integrity, stability, and handling constraints usually limit the feasible length in a single piece.