The use of metals in the construction industry dates back to Ancient Greece times, where beams of wrought iron were used to build some temples. Nowadays, it is hard to imagine any type of construction that does not use metal as one of its base materials.
Steel is one of those materials that stands out due to its properties and uses in the construction of many different projects, such as buildings, bridges and railways, among others. However, conditions exist that make it and even more ideal material for any given work: the material’s availability in the area, the need to finish work in a speedy manner, small work spaces, crowded areas where the structure’s purpose would change with time, as well as open spaces such as public establishments or halls, etc.
On the other hand, despite the fact that metal structures are in high-demand due to their practicality, conditions may exist that limit their use, among which you may find:
- Construction projects situated in areas with unfavorable weather conditions, like the sea, shore areas or industrial centers where its use is not favorable or affordable.
- Buildings that require great dynamic efficacy.
- Storage areas, laboratories and, generally, areas with a high fire risk.
While corroded metal constructions, product of environmental conditions, are a common sight, nowadays those issues have been greatly reduced in recent construction projects thanks to new, adverse weather-resistant composites as well as the application of protective treatments such as paint and specialized chemical additives.
Regarding structures, metallic ones should be designed to support both vertical and horizontal actions, just the same way concrete does. In the case of horizontal actions, these should be taken into particular account when it comes to the construction of buildings of great height, as it is precisely in these that these new findings can produce even more interesting results.
Generally speaking, the use of metallic materials and structures is very important for the construction industry, being highly beneficial so long as all possible risk factors are taken into accounts.
