1. High material strength and low self-weight
Steel possesses high strength and a high modulus of elasticity. Compared to concrete and timber, it has a relatively low ratio of density to yield strength; consequently, under identical loading conditions, steel structural members feature smaller cross-sections and lower self-weight. This facilitates transportation and installation, making steel ideal for structures requiring large spans, great heights, or heavy load-bearing capacities.
2. Good toughness and ductility, material uniformity, and high structural reliability
Steel is well-suited to withstand impact and dynamic loads and exhibits excellent seismic performance. Its internal microstructure is uniform, behaving almost like an isotropic, homogeneous material. The actual performance of steel structures aligns closely with theoretical calculations, resulting in high structural reliability.
3. High degree of mechanization in fabrication and installation
Steel components are easily fabricated in factories and assembled on-site. Factory-based mechanized fabrication ensures high precision and production efficiency, while on-site assembly is rapid, leading to shorter construction schedules. Steel structures represent the highest level of industrialization in construction.
4. Excellent sealing performance
Welded steel structures can be made completely airtight and watertight, making them suitable for high-pressure vessels, large oil storage tanks, pressure pipelines, and similar applications.
5. Low-carbon, energy-efficient, eco-friendly, and reusable
The demolition of steel structures generates minimal construction waste, and the steel itself can be recycled and reused.
