ARCH – 5261

BUILDING MATERIAL AND CONSTRUCTIONS II

MELAKU SHAMBEL
LECTURER
DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE
INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
UNIVERSITY OF GONDAR

2nd Year Architecture April. 2025

BUILDING MATERIAL AND
CONSTRUCTIONS II
Steel and steel building
construction
  History of steel construction
 Famous steel buildings
 Steel in architecture

Contents  Steel foundation

 Connection in steel structures
 Steel stair
 Steel structure morphology
 Introduction

• Steel is a solution of carbon in iron.

• Various types of steel are produced by varying the
percentage of carbon.
• Metals containing substantially no carbon (several
hundredths of 1%) are called irons, of which wrought iron.
• 2.0% carbon content is the region of the cast irons.

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 5
 General Types of Steel

1. Carbon Steel: Contains carbon as the primary alloying element.

Divided into low, medium, high carbon steel and Ultra High
Carbon Steel.
Applications: Construction, automotive, and manufacturing.
2. Alloy Steel: Contains additional alloying elements (e.g.,
chromium, nickel, etc.) to enhance properties.
Applications: Used in tools, machinery, and structural
components.
3. Stainless Steel: Contains a minimum of 10.5% chromium,
providing corrosion resistance.
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel 6
 General Types of Steel
4. Tool Steel: High-carbon steel designed for making tools,
known for hardness and resistance to abrasion.
Applications: Cutting tools, molds.
5. Structural Steel: Steel used in construction for buildings,
bridges, and other structures, often in the form of beams, columns,
and plates.
Applications: Infrastructure and architectural frameworks.
6. Spring Steel: High-carbon steel known for its elasticity and
ability to return to its original shape after deformation.
Applications: Springs, suspension components, and various
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel mechanical applications. 7
 General Types of Steel
7. High-Strength Low-Alloy (HSLA) Steel: Contains small
amounts of alloying elements to improve strength without
increasing weight.
Applications: Automotive and construction applications where
lightweight strength is crucial.

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 8
 Types of Steel Based on Carbon Content

Steel is classified into different types based on its carbon content,

which significantly affects its properties and applications.
Steel Types Carbon Characteristics Applications
Content
Low Carbon Steel (Mild Up to 0.3% Ductile, malleable, and easy Used in construction
Steel) to weld. Has good tensile (beams, columns),
strength but lower hardness. automotive components,
and general fabrication.
Medium Carbon Steel 0.3% to 0.6% Offers a balance between Suitable for manufacturing
strength and ductility. More gears, axles, and
wear-resistant than low automotive parts.
carbon steel.
High Carbon Steel 0.6% to 1.4% Very strong and hard but Used for tools, blades, and
less ductile. More prone to high-strength wires.
brittleness.
Ultra High Carbon Steel 1.4% to 2.0% Extremely hard and brittle. Used in specialized tools,
Requires special handling. knives, and high-
performance applications.
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel 9
 History of steel construction

Buildings probably began with simple forms of construction

Pre – historic rock – shelter

17th century bark
shelter

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 10
 History of steel construction

The use of steel in construction began

in the early 1800s, with wrought iron
being the primary material. The
Industrial Revolution facilitated
advancements in metallurgy.

The first notable steel structure was the

Crystal Palace in London (1851), which
showcased the potential of iron and
The crystal palace (1851)
glass.
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel 11
 History of steel construction

Development of Steel Production

 Bessemer Process (1856): This
innovation allowed for the mass
production of steel by blowing air
through molten iron, significantly
reducing costs and increasing
availability.
 Open Hearth Process (1860s):
Enhanced steel quality and further
boosted production.
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel 12
 History of steel construction
Rise of Skyscrapers (Late 19th
Century):
First Skyscrapers: The Home Insurance
Building in Chicago (1885) is often
considered the first skyscraper,
utilizing a steel frame that allowed for
greater height and stability.
Architectural Advancements: The
combination of steel frames and new 1883 – first iron frame building, home
insurance, Chicago 10 floor Destroyed in
materials like reinforced concrete 1931
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel 13
 History of steel construction

• 1886 – rand McNally building first

all steel frame building Commercial
high – rise construction in the us,
primarily in Chicago

1886 – rand McNally building

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 14
 History of steel construction
20th Century Innovations:
World War I Impact: Steel production
increased dramatically due to military
needs, leading to advancements in
technology and techniques.
Post-War Boom: The 1920s and 1930s
saw a surge in skyscraper construction,
with iconic buildings like the Empire
State Building (1931) demonstrating
Empire state building, new
steel’s strength and versatility. York city Built in 1930 (31)
UoG – Department of Architecture 381 m 16% steel
Melaku Shambel 15
 History of steel construction
Modern Era (Late 20th Century to
Present)
 Sustainable Practices: Recent decades have seen
a focus on sustainability in steel production and
construction, including recycling and reducing
emissions.
 Advanced Technologies: Innovations in
fabrication, such as computer-aided design (CAD) and
steel composite materials, have improved efficiency
and design capabilities. Burj Dubai, Dubai
BUILT IN 2009 FLOOR : 120
 Globalization: Steel construction has become a (WORLD RECORED)
HEIGHT: 818 M
global industry, with significant projects around the
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel 16
 Famous Steel Buildings
No Buildings description
1 Eiffel Tower, Paris (1889) Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this iconic structure is made primarily of wrought iron and stands 1,083
feet tall. It was the tallest man-made structure in the world until the Chrysler Building in 1930.
2 Empire State Building, New An Art Deco skyscraper that reaches 1,454 feet, it was the tallest building in the world for nearly 40
York City (1931) years. Its steel frame allowed for its rapid construction and towering height.
3 Willis Tower (formerly Sears Once the tallest building in the world, this 1,450-foot skyscraper features a unique bundled-tube
Tower), Chicago (1973) design that provides structural stability and allows for its impressive height.
4 Burj Khalifa, Dubai (2010) Currently the tallest building in the world at 2,717 feet, its structural system incorporates a
combination of reinforced concrete and steel. The design features a triple-lobed footprint for
stability.

5 Sydney Harbor Bridge, A steel arch bridge that spans 1,650 feet, it is one of the largest steel arch bridges in the world,
Australia (1932) known for its distinctive design and engineering.
6 One World Trade Center, Standing at 1,776 feet, this building is the main structure of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex.
New York City (2013) It features a steel frame and a glass façade, symbolizing resilience.
7 Taipei 101, Taiwan (2004) Once the tallest building in the world, Taipei 101 is known for its unique design that resembles a
bamboo stalk. It incorporates a steel structure that ensures stability during earthquakes.
8 The Shard, London (2012) Standing at 1,016 feet, this glass and steel skyscraper is the tallest building in the UK. Its unique
shape and design have become a prominent feature of the London skyline.
9 Gherkin (30 St Mary Axe), This iconic building features a unique aerodynamic shape and a steel frame, contributing to its
London (2004) energy efficiency and distinctive appearance.
10 The Louvre Pyramid, Paris Designed by I.M. Pei, this glass and steel pyramid serves as the entrance to the Louvre Museum,
(1989) blending modern design with historical architecture.
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel 17
 Famous steel structures :

“LA TOUR EIFFEL”

Height : 321 m including the
antenna
15 May 1889
18,038 - structural
elements

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 18
 History of Steel Construction
Famous steel structures :

Lloyd’s building, London, England

(Richard rogers)
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel 19
 Steel and steel building construction

Pompidou center, Paris. France (Renzo piano and Richard r.)

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 20
 Steel products for construction
Rebar (Reinforcing Steel):
• Rebar, short for reinforcing bar, is a crucial component in
reinforced concrete and masonry structures.
• It is designed to enhance the tensile strength of concrete, which is
inherently strong in compression but weak in tension.

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 21
 Steel products for construction
Composition and Characteristics
 Material: Typically made from carbon
steel, which provides excellent strength
and ductility.
 Surface Features: Rebar is often
deformed with ridges or lugs to improve
bonding with concrete. This
deformation enhances mechanical
anchoring, preventing slippage and
ensuring that the two materials work
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel together effectively under load. 22
 Steel products for construction

Sizes and Grades

Rebar comes in various sizes and
grades, categorized by the following:
Sizes:
• Rebar sizes are designated by
number, typically ranging from
#3 (10 mm) to #18 (57 mm) in
the U.S. system.

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 23
 Steel products for construction
Applications
Reinforced Concrete: Used in beams, columns, slabs, and foundations to improve load-
bearing capacity.
Masonry Structures: Provides tensile support in walls and other structural elements.
Infrastructure: Essential in bridges, roads, and tunnels for enhanced durability and
longevity.
Benefits of Using Rebar
Increased Strength: Significantly improves the tensile and shear strength of concrete
structures.
Ductility: Allows structures to withstand bending and deformation without failure.
Durability: Enhances the lifespan of concrete by preventing cracking and structural failure.
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel 24
 Steel in Architecture
1. Strength and Durability
• High Strength-to-Weight Ratio: Steel provides excellent
strength while being relatively lightweight, allowing for tall and
slender structures.
• Durability: Steel is resistant to many environmental factors,
including pests and decay, making it a long-lasting choice.
2. Design Flexibility
• Versatile Shapes: Steel can be fabricated into various
shapes, allowing architects to explore innovative designs and
forms.
• Open Spaces: Steel frames enable large open spaces
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel 25
 Steel in Architecture
3. Construction Efficiency
• Prefabrication: Steel components can be
prefabricated off-site, reducing construction time and
labor costs.
• Rapid Assembly: The use of steel allows for quicker
assembly on-site, accelerating project timelines.
4. Sustainability
• Recyclability: Steel is 100% recyclable, making it an
environmentally friendly option in construction.
• Energy Efficiency: Modern steel buildings can be
designed for energy efficiency, incorporating insulation
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel 26
 Steel in Architecture

5. Aesthetic Appeal
• Modern Aesthetics: Steel can create sleek,
modern designs, contributing to contemporary
architecture.
• Finishes and Treatments: Steel can be treated or
coated for various finishes, enhancing its aesthetic
qualities.

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 27
 Steel in Architecture

6. Applications
• Skyscrapers: Steel's strength supports the
construction of high-rise buildings, allowing urban
development.
• Bridges: Its tensile strength makes it ideal for
bridge construction, enabling longer spans and innovative
designs.
• Industrial Buildings: Steel is widely used in
warehouses, factories, and other industrial structures due
Melaku Shambel to its robustness.
UoG – Department of Architecture
28
 Types of structural steel members

Hot rolled and cold formed are two primary methods of manufacturing sheet pile.

Standard hot –rolled shapes

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 29
 Types of structural steel members

1. Hot Rolled Sheet Piles

Manufacturing Process: Produced by heating steel to high
temperatures and then rolling it into shape.
Characteristics:
 Typically have a thicker wall and greater strength.
 Can be manufactured in larger sizes and lengths.
 Often exhibit a rough surface finish.
Commonly used in heavy-duty applications such as marine
structures, retaining walls, and deep foundations.

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 30
 Types of structural steel members

Standard hot –rolled shapes

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 31
 Types of structural steel members
Hot rolled and cold formed are two primary methods of manufacturing sheet pile.

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 32
 Types of structural steel members
2. Cold Formed Sheet Piles
Manufacturing Process: Made by bending and shaping steel at
room temperature without the use of heat.
•Characteristics:
• Generally lighter and thinner than hot rolled piles.
• Offer a smoother surface finish and more precise dimensions.
• Can be produced in various shapes, including Z and U
profiles.
Suitable for lighter applications such as temporary works, flood
protection, and soil retention.
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel 33
 Types of structural steel members
Standard cold –rolled shapes

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 34
 Types of structural steel members
Typical compression members

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 35
 Types of structural steel members
Typical tension members

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 36
 Types of structural steel members
Typical beam members

Joints
weld
and bolt

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 37
 Types of structural steel members

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 38
 Steel Structure Morphology

Steel structure morphology refers to the physical form

and arrangement of steel elements in a construction. It
encompasses the shapes, configurations, and spatial
relationships of structural components.

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 39
 Steel Structure Morphology
Key Elements of Description Applications
Morphology
Structural Composed of beams and columns that create Used in high-rises,
Frames the skeleton of a building. Common forms warehouses, and
include rectangular, square, and tubular industrial buildings.
frames.

Trusses Triangular framework that distributes loads Often used in bridges,

efficiently. Made of steel rods or beams roofs, and large-span
arranged in triangular units. structures.
Shell Structures Thin, curved plates that distribute loads over a Common in stadiums
large area. Typically made from steel or and auditoriums,
reinforced concrete. providing large open
spaces.
Tension Use cables to carry loads through tension Found in tents, canopies,
Structures rather than compression. and lightweight
structures.
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel 40
 Steel Structure Morphology

Millenium Bridge, London

Sir Anthony Caro and Lord Norman Foster

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 41
 Morphological Characteristics
• Geometric Forms:
The shapes and lines of steel structures can vary widely, from simple
geometric forms to complex organic shapes.
• Spatial Arrangement:
The arrangement of structural elements affects load distribution,
aesthetics, and functionality. Well-designed arrangements can
maximize space efficiency.
• Material Usage:
Different steel types and grades can influence the overall morphology,
affecting the structural performance and aesthetic appeal.
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel 42
 Design Considerations
• Structural Efficiency:
The morphology must ensure that materials are used efficiently to
withstand loads without excessive weight.
• Aesthetics:
The visual impact of a steel structure is often a key consideration,
influencing public perception and architectural style.
• Functionality:
The morphology should support the intended use of the building,
providing necessary spaces and structural integrity.

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 43
 Steel Foundations
Steel foundations provide a robust base for structures, ensuring
stability and load distribution. They are particularly useful in heavy-
load applications and challenging soil conditions.

Steel foundation as its name indicates means using steel on

foundation construction as a main foundation material.
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel 44
 Steel Foundations

Types of Steel Foundations

Steel Footings: Concrete foundations

reinforced with steel rebar to enhance strength
and durability.

In the construction of steel foundation, the

steel didn't stand alone.

There is a concrete footing or pad which helps

to distribute load from the steel structure to the
ground.
Steel foundation with concrete
Its Common in residential and commercial footings or pads
UoG – Department of Architecture
buildings, providing a stable base for load-
Melaku Shambel 45
 Steel Foundations
• Pile caps and ground beams are used to transfer the load to the
ground.

• Steel bolts are needed to connect the steel bar with the concrete in
order to transfer the load to the ground.

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 46
 Steel Foundations
Steel Piles: Long, cylindrical steel tubes driven deep into the ground
to transfer loads to stable soil or rock.

Applications: Ideal for high-rise buildings, bridges, and structures in

areas with poor soil conditions.

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 47
 Steel Foundations

Steel Caissons: Large,

hollow concrete or steel
structures sunk into the
ground to create a stable
foundation.

Used in water and marine

construction, as well as in
deep foundations for Steel foundation within water bodies
skyscrapers.
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel 48
 Steel Foundations
Steel foundation within water bodies
 They can be used in the construction in which the construction is in the middle of
the water or when the construction includes some part of a water body
 On the other hand steel foundation can be used on structures which are
detached from the ground by two main causes:
 To avoid rusting &
 to make the ground level on sloppy landscapes
 Rusting can affect the building structure by shortening the age or can affect the
structure stability.
 Similarly, if the ground level is not suitable for the proposed structure there will
be some up lifting from the normal ground in order to make the slop leveled

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 49
 Steel Foundations
APPLICATION OF STEEL FOUNDATION
 Digging by the size of the footing or the pad
 putting the steel bolts on the bottom lean
concrete
 filling the hole with concrete
 fixing the steel bar with the bolts &
 Then check if it’s fixed or not.

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 50
 Steel Foundations

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 51
 Steel Foundations
ADVANTAGES

 Cheap
 Functional
 light in weight when compared with the others
 Durable if it is stainless steel

DISADVANTAGE

 Can’t resist rust and corrosion

 Exposed to electrical connections

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 52
 Connections of steel structures
Importance of Connections
Connections are crucial in steel structures as they transfer loads
between different elements, ensuring stability and integrity. Properly
designed connections can significantly affect the overall performance
of a structure.
Structural steel members are erected, braced
and secured together to create a structural
frame work

Connections are structural elements used for

joining different members of a structural steel
frame work.
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel 53
 Connections of steel structures

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 54
 Classification of Connections

1. method of fastening : rivets, bolts and welding.

2. Connection rigidity: simple, rigid or semi –rigid
3. Joint resistance: bearing connections and friction connections
4. Fabrication: shop or field connection.
5. Joint location: beam – column, beam to beam, column to
foundation
6. Connection geometry: Sigle plate, set angles welded connection
using plates and angles etc.
7. Type of force transferred across the structural connection:
shear, simple moment ,tension or compression.
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel 55
 Classification of Connections

1. Method of Fastening:
 Rivets: Permanent mechanical fasteners used to join materials.

 Bolts: Removable fasteners that can be tightened or loosened.

 Welding: A process that fuses materials together through heat.

2. Connection Rigidity:
 Simple: Allows for rotation and is generally used in non-critical applications.

 Rigid: Resists rotation and maintains the original angle between connected
elements.
 Semi-Rigid: Offers some resistance to rotation but allows for minor

Melaku Shambel
movements.
UoG – Department of Architecture
56
 Classification of Connections
3. Joint Resistance:
 Bearing Connections: Transfer loads primarily through bearing stress.

 Friction Connections: Rely on friction between surfaces to resist loads.

4. Fabrication:
 Shop Connection: Assembled in a controlled environment before installation.

 Field Connection: Assembled on-site, often requiring additional labor and time.

5 Joint Location:
 Beam-Column: Connections between beams and vertical columns.

 Beam to Beam: Connections between two horizontal beams.

 Column to Foundation: Connections between vertical columns and their

UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel 57
 Classification of Connections
6. Connection Geometry:

Single Plate: A straightforward connection using a single plate.

Set Angles: Connections utilizing angle plates welded together.

Using Plates and Angles: Various configurations for enhanced strength

and stability.

7. Type of Force Transferred:

Shear: Forces acting parallel to the surface of the connection.

Simple Moment: Bending moments applied at the connection.

Tension: Forces pulling apart the connected elements.

Compression: Forces pushing together the connected elements.

UoG – Department of Architecture
58
Melaku Shambel
 Connections of steel structures

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 59
 Connections of steel structures

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 60
 Connections of steel structures

• In beam and column construction, beams and girders

support floor and roof loads and distribute the loads to the
vertical columns.
• In long span construction, long distances are spanned with
built-up structural steel girders and trusses
• In wall bearing construction, horizontal steel beams and
joists are supported by other construction materials such
as masonry

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 61
 Components of a connection

1. Bolts

2. Weld

3. Connecting plate

4. Connecting angles
UoG – Department of Architecture
Melaku Shambel 62
 Connection in steel structures

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 63
 Components of a connection

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 64
 Steel stair
Steel stairs are a durable and versatile option for both indoor and outdoor
applications. They are commonly used in commercial, industrial, and
residential
A common buildings.
type of stair system used for
multi-story buildings is the prefabricated steel
stair assembly.

A steel stairs are to be designed for both

strength and flexibility. When we say strength
the stair is welded to the frame or the wall
which is simple and strong.

When we say flexible there are types of steel

stair that are movable from place to place.
UoG – Department of Architecture
65
Melaku Shambel
 Steel stair

Straight Stairs: A simple, linear design that connects two levels

directly.
Common in commercial buildings and warehouses.

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 66
 Steel stair

L-Shaped (Quarter Turn) Stairs: Features a 90-degree turn,

creating a landing between two straight sections.
Used where space constraints require a change in direction.

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 67
 Steel stair
U-Shaped (Half Turn) Stairs:
A design that turns back on itself, often with a landing at the
midpoint.
Ideal for maximizing space in multi-story buildings.

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 68
 Steel stair
Spiral Stairs:
A compact design that winds around a central column, saving
space.
Common in small spaces, such as lofts or outdoor areas.

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 69
 Steel stair

Advantages of Steel Stairs

 Strength: Steel can support heavy loads

 Durability: resist wear over time, making it ideal for high-traffic

areas.
 Design Flexibility: Steel can be molded into various shapes and
finishes, allowing for creative architectural designs.
 Low Maintenance: Steel is resistant to pests and decay,
requiring minimal upkeep.

UoG – Department of Architecture

Melaku Shambel 70
Thank
you