The composition of Steel Buildings
Major Components of Pre-Engineered Steel Building
PEBs consist of different components, each serving a unique purpose. These components are broadly classified into primary and secondary components.
Primary Components of PEB
The primary components form the main structural elements of a PEB. They include:
- Main Frame: The main frame, also known as the rigid frame, is the primary structural skeleton that provides the main support to the building. It consists of columns and rafters. The primary frame of a PEB includes built-up I-shaped steel members. This frame may incorporate trusses or castellated beams among other elements.
- Columns: Columns are vertical structural members that transfer the load from the roof and floors to the foundations.
- Rafters: Rafters are sloping beams that support the roof. They transfer the roof loads to the columns.
Secondary Component of PEB
Secondary components provide stability and additional support to the primary components. These are cold-formed members that can take various shapes, such as “Z” or “C”. Commonly, these are referred to as Purlins. They include:
- Purlins and Girts: Purlins are horizontal structural members used to support the roof. Girts are similar to purlins but are used to support wall cladding.
- Eave Struts: These are used at the intersection of the roof and sidewalls to support the roof and wall cladding.
- Bracings: Bracings provide stability against lateral forces such as wind and seismic loads.
- Sheeting or Cladding: Sheeting or cladding forms the skin of the building. It provides a weatherproof enclosure and enhances the aesthetic appeal of the building.
- Sandwich Panels: A sandwich panel consists of three layers, with a non-aluminium core sandwiched between two aluminium sheets.
- Accessories: These include items like doors, windows, ventilators, etc., that enhance the functionality of the building.