staalframe

Staalframe, or steel-frame construction, refers to a structural system in which a skeleton of steel columns and beams carries the loads of a building. The frame resists vertical loads through the members and transfers lateral forces through bracing and connections. Exterior walls often function as non-load-bearing cladding, while floors are typically steel decks with concrete toppings or concrete slabs, allowing large open spaces and flexible layouts.

Materials and connections commonly include hot-rolled or cold-formed steel sections, such as I-beams, H-beams, or tubular members. Connections are made by bolting, welding, or a combination of both, with modern practice favoring high-strength bolts for speed and modularity. Fire protection and corrosion control are important considerations, depending on the environment and use.

Benefits of sta alframe construction include high strength-to-weight ratio, the ability to create long spans and open floor plans, and faster erection through prefabricated components. Steel frames also offer good performance in seismic areas when designed appropriately and are highly recyclable at end of life, contributing to sustainability goals.

Limitations and challenges include the need for protective coatings in corrosive or humid environments and robust fireproofing measures. Steel structures can be sensitive to heat, requiring remediation in fire scenarios, and may incur higher upfront costs and specialized labor requirements compared with some other systems.

Applications span high-rise and commercial buildings, industrial facilities, sports venues, and retrofit projects where rapid construction and flexible space planning are advantageous. In Dutch-speaking contexts, sta alframe denotes this steel-frame approach as an alternative to masonry or concrete framing.