1. High material strength with low self-weight

Steel possesses high strength and a high modulus of elasticity. Compared to concrete and wood, its density-to-yield strength ratio is relatively low. Consequently, under identical loading conditions, steel structural members feature smaller cross-sections and lighter self-weight, facilitating transportation and installation. This makes steel ideal for structures requiring large spans, great heights, and heavy loads.

2. High toughness, plasticity, uniform material properties, and structural reliability

Steel excels at withstanding impact and dynamic loads, offering excellent seismic performance. Its internal microstructure is uniform, approaching an isotropic homogeneous material. The actual performance of steel structures closely aligns with theoretical calculations, ensuring high structural reliability.

3. High degree of mechanization in manufacturing and installation

Steel components are easily fabricated in factories and assembled on-site. Factory-mechanized production ensures high precision and efficiency, while on-site assembly is rapid, shortening project timelines. Steel structures represent a highly industrialized construction method.

4. Excellent sealing performance

Welded steel structures can achieve complete sealing, enabling the fabrication of high-pressure vessels, large oil tanks, and pressure pipelines with superior airtightness and watertightness.

5. Steel Structures Resist Heat but Not Fire

Steel properties change minimally below 150°C. Thus, steel structures are suitable for hot workshops. However, when exposed to thermal radiation around 150°C, insulation panels must be used for protection. Between 300°C and 400°C, both strength and elastic modulus of steel decrease significantly. At approximately 600°C, steel strength approaches zero. In buildings with special fire protection requirements, steel structures must be protected with fire-resistant materials to enhance their fire resistance rating.

6. Steel Structures Have Poor Corrosion Resistance

They are prone to rusting, especially in humid or corrosive environments. Standard steel structures require rust removal, galvanization, or coating, along with regular maintenance. For offshore platforms exposed to seawater, special anti-corrosion measures like “zinc block anode protection” are necessary.

7. Low-carbon, energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and reusable

Demolition of steel structures generates minimal construction waste, and the steel can be recycled and reused.