Pre-Engineered Steel Buildings: Unveiling the Components and Benefits

In the realm of modern construction, Pre-Engineered Steel Buildings (PESB) represent a cutting-edge technology. Unlike traditional buildings, where design happens on-site, PESBs undergo complete planning at the factory. Components arrive in a ‘completely knockdown’ state, later assembled at the construction site with the aid of cranes.

Unpacking the Components

Let’s delve into the major components that constitute a Pre-Engineered Steel Building:

1. Primary Components

A. Main Frame

The core of PESB, the main frame comprises rigid steel frames with tapered columns and rafters, connected by continuous fillet welds.

B. Columns

Columns, responsible for transferring vertical loads to foundations, are crafted from cost-effective I-sections, widening from bottom to top.

C. Rafters

Rafters, sloped structural members supporting the roof deck, play a pivotal role in the building’s integrity.

2. Secondary Components

Secondary elements like Purlins, Girts, Eave Struts, and Bracings offer additional structural support and stability.

A. Purlins and Girts

Cold-formed “Z” sections with stiffened flanges, providing roof and wall support.

B. Eave Struts

Unequal flange cold-formed “C” sections, ensuring stability at the roof-sidewall intersection.

C. Bracings

Essential for longitudinal stability against forces like wind and earthquakes, cable and diagonal bracings are incorporated.

3. Sheeting or Cladding

Construction involves sheets made of Galvalume coated steel or aluminum, ensuring durability and strength.

4. Accessories

Non-structural components, such as bolts, turbo ventilators, doors, and windows, form the accessory ensemble.

Comparison: PESB vs. Conventional Steel Building

Let’s explore the disparities between Pre-Engineered and Conventional Steel Buildings:

Properties	Pre-Engineered Steel Building	Conventional Steel Building
Structural Weight	30% lighter, efficient steel use	Heavier hot-rolled sections
Design	Quick, efficient, standard sections	Customized design, time-consuming
Construction Period	6-8 weeks	20-26 weeks
Foundation	Simple, lightweight	Extensive, heavy foundation
Erection	Standardized connections, faster	Complex connections, slower
Seismic Resistance	Higher in seismic zones	Rigid frames struggle
Erection Cost	Less equipment, faster	More expensive, time-consuming

Advantages of Pre-Engineered Steel Building

Reduction in Construction Time

Buildings delivered within weeks, reducing overall project time by at least 50%.

Lower Cost

Systematic approach leads to savings in design, manufacturing, and on-site erection costs.

Flexibility of Expansion

Easy expansion in length, width, and height, pre-designed for future expansion.

Larger Spans

Clear spans of up to 80 meters achievable.

Quality Control

Factory manufacturing ensures consistent quality under controlled conditions.

Low Maintenance

High-quality paint systems result in long durability and low maintenance costs.

Energy-Efficient Roofing and Wall Systems

Options for insulated panels or fiberglass blankets to achieve required “U” values.

Architectural Versatility

Various fascias, canopies, and eaves designed to accommodate diverse wall systems.

Single Source Availability

Complete building package from one vendor ensures compatibility and simplifies responsibility.

Applications of Pre-Engineered Steel Buildings

PESBs find application in various sectors, including houses, factories, warehouses, sports halls, aircraft hangars, supermarkets, workshops, offices, labor camps, petrol pumps, schools, and community centers. Their versatility makes them a preferred choice in diverse construction scenarios.