Composite Steel and Concrete Structures
DescriptionComposite structures involve the combined use of precast concrete and structural steel sections. This is particularly relevant for structurally complex projects, such as Paddington Station, where the resulting structure was very slender in relation to its purpose.
Benefits
Composite steel and concrete structures
- Can produce very elegant solutions to complex structural engineering challenges.
- Enable faster programme times - not affected by weather or labour shortages.
- Improve buildability - early enclosure of dry envelope enables follow-on trades to start sooner.
- Produce a high standard of workmanship in factory conditions - reduces potential for accidents, addresses on-site skill shortage.
- Have a high quality finish that can be left exposed - concrete's thermal properties can be exploited in low-energy buildings.
Process
Steel sections are pre-encased into the concrete, and though the steel may only be required at the ends to form joints, it is better to have the steel running full length rather than in two isolated pieces. The benefits of this are: end-to-end tolerances can be determined before the concrete is cast, the section has full strength almost immediately allowing early handling and transport and no intermediate reinforcement is needed to connect the two ends together.
Please see our case studies.