Differences Between Steel or Concrete Space Frame Structures

Space frame structures are structures made of steel or concrete, and SAFS Steel Structures will now introduce the differences between the two.

Steel frame structures are structures made of steel, representing a specific type of engineering and construction. They possess the following characteristics: lightweight, high stability, seismic resistance, good impact resistance, high modernity, easy creation of sealed structures, susceptibility to corrosion, and poor flame resistance. Due to their light self-weight, low processing cost, suitability for fragile foundations, simple installation, quick construction, short construction period, fast return on investment, minimal environmental pollution, and excellent seismic performance, steel frame structures are highly valued.

Concrete space frame structures, on the other hand, are structures built with building steel and concrete. Building steel bears tensile forces, while concrete bears compressive forces. They offer advantages such as solidity, durability, and good fire safety performance, as well as saving steel and being cost-effective compared to steel structures.

Because steel has plastic deformation and good ductility, it can undergo significant deformation and effectively bear driving loads. Additionally, steel exhibits good homogeneity and anisotropy, making it an ideal elastic material, resulting in better seismic performance compared to concrete space frame structures.

Steel structures have a small self-weight and low bending stiffness. In estimating horizontal seismic effects, seismic forces on steel structures are generally smaller than those on concrete structures. Moreover, steel structures have good plasticity and can absorb a large amount of kinetic energy during earthquakes. However, steel structures are too flexible, leading to significant horizontal displacement, and have poor fire safety performance, making them inferior to concrete structures in this regard.