Mid-Rise Construction with Cold Formed Steel - Artin Engineering & Design
May 3, 2021
- By : Ardy Sherafati, PhD, PE, SE
- 2 Comments
Many people think that cold formed steel (CFS) construction is a good fit for low-rise buildings with 2 to 3 stories. Another misconception is that CFS is suitable for small and non-critical framing applications. The truth is cold formed steel construction can be used in mid-rise constructions as well. The economic benefits of CFS have got everyone’s attention recently. High quality and stable residential and commercial constructions projects around the world are being constructed with this method. In this article, you will learn about Mid-rise construction using CFS. A construction project is mid-rise if it ranges from 4 to 12 floors.[1] These buildings have a moderate height and because of that they have highly versatile selection of occupancy whether it’s the construction of a residential building or an office space. It should be noted that high-rise buildings are generally taller and have 13 floors or more. Mid-rise construction is extremely flexible as far as building methods and innovations can be introduced in this type of construction. On the other hand however, for high-rise construction most builders prefer taking a homogenous approach because of the cost efficiencies. The economies of scale in mid-rise construction is another reason why this method is used for constructing modern buildings. Cold-formed steel (CFS) refers to steel products formed by cold-working processes like bending, rolling, stamping, or pressing all which are carried out near room temperature.[2] CFS is commonly used in the form of thin gauge sheets for the construction of structural or non-structural items like floor decking, columns, beams, studs, joists, and several other components. CFS framing is reliable, sturdy, and cost-effective option for constructing low-rise and mid-rise projects.[3] It is the type of light-frame construction where vertical and horizontal structural elements are constructed by using repetitive framing members. These framing members are spaced at 16 or 24 inches on center. The spacing variations can be reduced or increased depending on the loads and coverings. Typically, material thicknesses for CFS framing range from 0.0147 in. (0.373 mm) to about 1/8 in. (3.175 mm). The framing products are made from zinc-coated cold-rolled steel. Cold formed steel (CFS) is not just strong but lightweight as well.[4] It is best for constructing sturdy components like wall frames, trusses, and joists. CFS is so versatile it can be used in variations of design. The best part is nothing is taken away from its strength when it’s engineered to acceptable standards. The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) has provided guidelines governing the design of cold formed steel components in North America. AISI recognizes the use of CFS as a durable structural material for most types of buildings. Traditionally, it was believed that structural CFS is only ideal for buildings up to ten-story high buildings. Steel Framing Industry Association (SFIA) conducted an analysis that revealed that cold formed steel can support buildings that are up to 40 levels high. [5] As per the study, CFS load-bearing components were able to meet the requirements for the distribution of live as well as dead loads used in the building. The application of high-rise buildings may be years away, however, numerous studies say residential projects using CFS have a brighter future. The Canadian Steel Construction Council published a report that talks about the benefits of cold formed steel for constructing mid-rise building construction in several categories. Below is a list of some of these benefits: Not only Cold formed steel is durable, sturdy, and easy to use, but it has helped owners, developers, and other stakeholders resolve issues encountered when engaged in mid-rise construction projects. CFS meets all structural regulatory standards. Engineers and designers are able to enjoy its flexibility, and can take advantage of new, improved technologies to meet the expectations of customers regarding the 21st-century construction for multi-level and large buildings. [1] https://workwithfocus.com/news/the-3-most-common-types-of-mid-rise-construction/ [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cold-formed_steel [3] https://www.buildusingsteel.org/build-using-steel/cold-formed-steel-framing/ [5] https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/research-suggests-cold-formed-steel-could-frame-future-duvvuri/
Introduction
What is considered a Mid-Rise building?
Understanding Cold Formed Steel
The Structural Integrity of CFS for Mid-Rise Construction
Why Use CFS for Constructing Mid-Rise Buildings?
Cost-effectiveness
Design flexibility
Safety
Sustainability
Conclusion
2 Replies to “Mid-Rise Construction with Cold Formed Steel”
Very good and informative article. Have you had a research to see the cost difference between CFS and wood construction in current market in regards to material and labor cost?
Thanks,
Great point Anoush, In current market with big jump in lumber prices compared to other construction materials like steel and concrete, wood construction is losing its competitiveness. We see clients reaching out asking for steel construction. Anyways, light frame wood construction is feasible for up to 5 stories.
Some articles we researched predict lumber pricing will remain unpredictable and may continue to rise in 2021.
Labor cost may also see some increase affected by increasing minimum wages, but that will be pretty similar for all types of construction.