Steel frame structures are classified based on structural form, load-bearing system, and application. Each type is designed to meet specific architectural, industrial, and engineering requirements.
Main Types of Steel Frame Structures
1. Rigid Frame Steel Structure
Rigid frame structures use moment-resisting connections between beams and columns.
They are widely used in:
Steel warehouses
Industrial workshops
Factories and logistics buildings
Advantages:
Large clear spans
High load-bearing capacity
Excellent wind and seismic resistance
2. Portal Frame Steel Structure
Portal frames are one of the most common steel frame systems for single-story buildings.
Applications:
Warehouses
Agricultural buildings
Aircraft hangars
Advantages:
Cost-effective design
Fast installation
Simple structure
3. Braced Frame Steel Structure
This type uses diagonal bracing to resist lateral loads such as wind and earthquakes.
Applications:
Multi-story buildings
Industrial plants
Steel towers
Advantages:
High structural stability
Reduced steel consumption
Strong lateral resistance
4. Moment-Resisting Frame (MRF)
Moment-resisting frames rely on rigid beam-column joints without additional bracing.
Applications:
Commercial buildings
Office buildings
Urban structures
Advantages:
Open interior space
Flexible architectural design
Good seismic performance
5. Truss Steel Frame Structure
Truss systems use triangular units to efficiently distribute loads.
Applications:
Long-span roofs
Stadiums
Exhibition halls
Advantages:
Lightweight
Strong load distribution
Suitable for large spans
6. Space Frame Steel Structure
Space frames are three-dimensional structures composed of interconnected steel members.
Applications:
Airports
Stadium roofs
Large public buildings
Advantages:
High rigidity
Aesthetic appearance
Excellent load distribution
7. Light Steel Frame Structure
Light steel structures use cold-formed steel sections.
Applications:
Residential buildings
Modular houses
Low-rise commercial buildings
Advantages:
Lightweight
Energy-efficient
Fast construction
8. Pre-Engineered Steel Buildings (PEB)
PEB systems are factory-designed and manufactured steel structures.
Applications:
Industrial buildings
Warehouses
Commercial steel buildings
Advantages:
Optimized material usage
Short construction time
Cost efficiency
Why Choose Steel Frame Structures?
Steel frame structures offer:
High strength-to-weight ratio
Design flexibility
Fast construction
Durability and long service life
Sustainability and recyclability
