Steel is one of the most commonly used
materials in construction and engineering. It’s also easy to work with and
relatively inexpensive, making it an ideal material for structural
reinforcement and retrofits. In this article, we will discuss why steel is the
preferred material for reinforcement and retrofits of existing structures.
Increased strength and durability
Steel is the preferred material for
reinforcement and retrofits of existing structures due to its superior strength
and durability. It is a strong material that allows for greater load-bearing
capacity than other materials such as concrete or wood.
Steel also has a high strength-to-weight
ratio, meaning that the material is both light and very strong. This makes it
ideal for retrofitting existing structures, as the steel can be easily
installed and then provide the necessary strength for the structure. It is also
highly durable, meaning it is able to withstand the harsh environmental
conditions that often accompany structural retrofits.
High ductility
The ductility of steel makes it an ideal
choice for retrofitting and reinforcing existing structures. Ductility is the
ability of a material to deform under load without breaking. Steel has the
ability to stretch beyond its yield point and return to its original shape.
This makes it ideal for reinforcing and retrofitting existing structures, as it
can be bent, twisted, and formed to fit any existing shapes or contours.
The high ductility of steel also allows it to
absorb large amounts of energy, making it highly resistant to seismic activity.
The steel reinforcement can absorb the energy of an earthquake or other seismic
event and help reduce the risk of damage to the structure. Steel also has a
high strength-to-weight ratio, making it suitable for use in a wide variety of
applications. Steel can also be easily molded and formed to match the existing
structure, making it an optimal choice for reinforcing or retrofitting existing
structures.
Corrosion-resistant material
Steel is the preferred material for
reinforcement and retrofits of existing structures due to its excellent
corrosion resistance. Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon that is highly
resistant to corrosion due to its protective passive film layer. The passive
film layer helps protect the steel from the attack of aggressive chemicals and
other corrosive agents. By adding another layer of protection, such as
galvanizing or painting, this layer can be strengthened even more.
High fire resistance
Additionally, steel has a high thermal capacity,
which allows it to store large amounts of heat before starting to deteriorate.
This makes it ideal for creating fire-resistant structures. Steel also has a
low thermal expansion coefficient, which keeps it from changing shape when
exposed to high temperatures. This makes steel a great option for existing
structure renovation and structural reinforcement.
If you are looking for an AISC-certified steel
erector, contact American Aerial Services to ensure your
project is completed with accuracy and quality. Get in touch with us now to avail our services!
