Frequently Asked Questions

In short, steel fabrication is the process of cutting, bending and shaping structural steel. To create the best steel beams, you will need high-quality structural steel while using the proper tools, techniques and experience to create them.

Many steel fabricators need to understand and read engineering diagrams/blueprints and utilize modern techniques, mechanical engineering fabrication software, and any equipment needed to fulfil their roles properly.

If the technology is not used correctly, the structural steel that has been fabricated may be sluggish due to the complicated process.

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RSJ or rolled steel joists are common for structural steelwork. The RSJ's are created using mild steel or aluminium in some cases. These can be formed using hot rolling, cold rolling or extrusion.

The RSJ beam can come in a variety of sizes. The RSJ are very efficient for carrying shear and bending loads.

RSJ beams are a common type of beam that is used in structural steelwork.

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RSJ stands for Rolled Steel Joists but is also known as I-beams or H-beams due to their unique shape.

Installing an RSJ should be done with a structural engineer, so the proper calculations are done for the right size and placements for the beams. Any mistakes made can compromise the structural integrity, so you should have professionals complete the task.

There is a slight difference between the H-beam and I-beam. H-beams are commonly used in bridges due to their strength to weight ratio. But deciding which is better depends on the situation.

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RSJ beams are used to support loads. In addition, steel beams are used for the structural integrity of a building which requires high-quality components.

Although the British Standard for Structural Sections lists UBS and RSJ beams as separate products, they are essentially the same products. The RSJ and universal beams have been used in the civil engineering and construction industry to help support loads.

Read more about  how universal beams are used in construction.

You will need to decide whether you have a load-bearing wall. If you do have a load-bearing wall, you will need an RSJ installed to support the floor above while removing the wall. 

Without the RSJ, you risk a portion of your building collapsing on top of you as there is no support assisting.

It is quite common for houses to have steel beams for support.

Read more about types of steel structures.

RSJ beams cannot span more than 4m.

The lifespan can vary depending on its environment, but it can usually last around 50 years.

Due to the number of raw materials in steel, steel frames are much more expensive than wood frames in most situations. 

With that being said, they are also more resistant to things like warping, flexing and can be more resistant to water depending on the coating added. This could make it more cost-effective depending on what you are using the steel for and the environment around the building.

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There are a few uses for steel frames as they are strong and great for structure support. They are primarily used in large and simple structures. Garages, warehouses and large agricultural buildings.

The steel frames in construction are great in providing durability, affordability and sustainability.

Steel frame construction is also being used in various development projects, including factories, offices, schools, residential dwellings and public buildings.

Using steel frames for houses are relatively good as they can support loads, and depending on their coating and carbon content, they may be able to resist moisture. Adding zinc coating and extra powder treatments can enhance rust resistance.

Universal columns are mostly used sections for structural steel purposes. Universal beams are generally used for columns, and they are ideal for load-bearing when height is limited due to their small depth compared to universal beams.

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The measurement is decided by a code that consists of depth from the outer face of the first flange to the other face on the opposite flange and adding in the kilograms per metre.

Universal beams are sometimes called I-beams or rolled steel joists/RSI and are commonly made out of structural steel. Because of their strength, universal beams are one of the most used load-bearing beams in the construction and engineering industries.

The shape of the I-beam provides versatile strength. The web resists the shear forces, and the flanges resist any bending moments experienced by the beam. These beams are relatively efficient for carrying shear and bending loads.

The size of I-beams can generally be decided by the producer and fit the current situations they are required in.

The standard size for beams in residential buildings is 9" x 12", which will be 225mm x 300mm. The minimum size for RCC beams should not be less than 9" x 9", which will be 225mm x 225mm. With the additional slab thickness, it will be 125mm.