Steel structures in extreme environments

Steel structures are commonly used in a wide range of applications. However, in extreme environments, such as those with high temperatures, corrosive substances, or strong winds, steel structures can face significant challenges. This article explores the use of steel structures in extreme environments and the various factors that must be considered in their design and construction.

1. An overview of steel structure

Steel structures are a type of building that use steel as the main material for support and framing. Steel buildings have become more and more popular due to a number of advantages such as strength, durability, flexibility, and so on.

2. Steel structures in extreme environments 

Steel structures can be designed to withstand extreme environments, such as high temperatures, corrosive environments, and seismic activity. Below are some ways steel structures can be designed to withstand extreme environments:

2.1 High temperatures

High-temperature environments can pose significant challenges in construction, particularly in areas where the temperature exceeds the normal range. Materials used in construction, such as steel and concrete, can expand and contract due to changes in temperature. This can cause stress and deformation in the structure, which can lead to structural failure. Moreover, high temperatures can cause the material to dry out too quickly, which can result in cracking and reduced strength.

Steel structures can be designed to withstand high temperatures by incorporating fireproofing materials, such as intumescent coatings or fire-resistant boards, to protect the steel from heat. In addition, structural steel can be designed to have a high melting point and be able to retain its strength at high temperatures. Expansion joints can also be added to accommodate thermal expansion and prevent damage to the structure.

2.2 Corrosive environments

Corrosive environments are environments that can cause corrosion, which is the gradual destruction of materials due to a chemical reaction with the environment. These types of environments relate to marine environments (saltwater and salt air); chemical plants (chemicals used in industrial processes); wastewater treatment plants;  coastal environments: acidic environments (environments with a high concentration of acids); and so on. 

Steel structures in corrosive environments, such as marine environments or chemical plants, can be protected by adding a coating or layer of material that is resistant to corrosion. Protective coatings, such as galvanizing or epoxy coatings, can be applied to the steel to prevent corrosion. These coatings form a barrier that protects the steel from exposure to the corrosive environment. Stainless steel can be used to construct the steel structure in corrosive environments. Stainless steel is a type of steel that contains chromium, which makes it highly resistant to corrosion. 

2.3 Seismic activity

Seismic activity refers to the movement of the earth's crust caused by the release of energy from tectonic plates. This energy is released in the form of seismic waves, which can cause vibrations and shaking in the ground. Seismic activity can result in earthquakes, tsunamis, and other geological events. In areas with high seismic activity, buildings, and structures must be designed to withstand the forces and vibrations.

Steel is a ductile material, meaning it can deform without breaking. This allows steel structures to withstand the forces and deformations caused by seismic activity, preventing structural failure. Steel structures can be designed to resist seismic forces by incorporating seismic-resistant design principles, such as moment-resisting frames, braced frames, or base isolation systems. These systems are designed to absorb and dissipate the energy from earthquakes, reducing the amount of force transferred to the structure. The connections between steel members must be designed to accommodate the forces and deformations caused by seismic activity. Specialized connections, such as moment connections or bolted connections, can be used to ensure that the structure remains stable during earthquakes.

2.4 Extreme weather

Extreme weather can pose significant challenges in construction, particularly in areas prone to severe weather events such as hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, or wildfires. This includes wind loads, rainfalls (heavy rainfall or flooding), temperature extremes, and so on. Overall, construction in extreme weather conditions requires careful planning and consideration of the materials and design principles used. 

Steel structures can be designed to withstand high wind loads by incorporating wind-resistant design principles, such as braced frames, moment-resisting frames, or cable-stayed structures. These systems are designed to absorb and dissipate the energy from high winds, reducing the amount of force transferred to the structure. Steel structures can be protected from water infiltration by using water-resistant coatings or sealants. These coatings can prevent water from penetrating the surface of the steel, reducing the risk of corrosion or damage.

2.5 Fatigue

Fatigue in construction refers to the weakening and eventual failure of materials due to repeated cyclic loading over time. Fatigue failure occurs when a material is subjected to cyclic loading that is below its ultimate strength but above its endurance limit. Over time, this repeated loading causes microscopic cracks to form in the material, which can eventually grow and cause the material to fail. This phenomenon is particularly important in structures and components that are subject to repeated loading, such as bridges, cranes, and aircraft.

In environments where the structure will experience cyclic loadings, such as bridges or offshore structures, the steel can be designed to resist fatigue by using high-strength materials, designing for certain fatigue life, or using monitoring systems to detect fatigue cracks before they become a problem. 

Above is some information regarding steel structures in extreme environments and notes in design and construction that should be taken into consideration. Hopefully, this article has provided you with useful information. Visit BMB Steel’s website to read more about pre-engineered steel buildings and steel structures. You can also contact us for design consulting and steel production services.