Steel structures is a generalized name for structures made of various metals or alloys. The scope of application of metal structures is very extensive. here metal structures for various purposes: for construction purposes, industrial enterprises, the oil and gas sector and gas stations.
Metal structures have been used in many industries for quite a long time. However, with the development of science and technology, new types of metal began to be used. So, if until the 20th century, metal structures made of cast iron were mainly used, nowadays such materials as steel or light alloys (aluminum, etc.) are used.
The number of applications has also increased significantly. Modern structures are divided into the following categories depending on the area of use: load-bearing, fencing, building metal structures, tanks, pipelines, metal structures for the transport industry.
I would like to note that metal structures have a number of positive characteristics. They are relatively light (the ratio of the density of steel to its strength is 1.5 - 3.4 m; for wood, this figure is 4.9 m), strong and impervious, and are distinguished by the simplicity of repair and reconstruction. After the expiration of the service life, metal structures can be used as recyclable materials for the production of metal products.
The disadvantages are susceptibility to various types of corrosion, a relatively low threshold of fire resistance. The use of stainless steel for the manufacture of structures to avoid corrosion. In addition, most deficiencies can be easily remedied with good design and good operating practices, but this will increase costs.
In any case, the advantages clearly prevail, as indicated by the use of metal structures for more than one century and the prospects for further development (invention of innovative alloys, an increase in the number of applications).
