Steel Strengthening
Steel strengthening is a modern method applied in order to increase the load-carrying capacity of structures, to ensure their safety and to reinforce their durability. By adding steel elements to the existing structure, it improves structural integrity and minimises the risk of potential damage. Steel strengthening is an ideal solution for structures that need to be made more resistant to natural disasters such as earthquakes.
The light, high-strength nature of steel elements makes the strengthening process both fast and effective. Preferred particularly in old or damaged buildings, this method makes the structure safely ready for use.
Advantages of Steel Strengthening:
Durability and Safety: Increases the load-carrying capacity of structures and ensures safety.
Fast Application: The installation of steel elements is practical and can be completed in a short time.
Earthquake Resistance: Steel elements increase the ductility of the structure and its resistance to earthquakes.
Long-Lasting Solution: Extends the service life of structures with its high durability.
Compatibility with the Existing Structure: Steel elements can be customised to suit the characteristics of the existing structure.
The Steel Strengthening Process:
- Analysis and Planning: The structure to be strengthened is analysed in detail.
- Selection of Method and Materials: The type of steel elements and the application method are determined.
- Installation: The steel elements are installed by professional teams.
- Testing and Inspection: Once the strengthening work is complete it is checked by testing.
With its expert team and innovative solutions in the field of steel strengthening, Likit İzolasyon brings durability and safety to your structures. Contact us for professional solutions on your strengthening projects.
Application Areas of Steel Strengthening
Increasing lateral resistance with steel bracing elements
Confining columns and beams with steel plates and sections
Reinforcement in industrial buildings following an increase in machine loads
Reversible solutions with documented intervention in historic buildings
Adding steel beams at floor openings
Increasing capacity on bridges and industrial platforms
Steel Strengthening Methods
Steel Confinement (Column Jacketing)
The element is confined with angles placed at the column corners and horizontal straps wrapped around them. The confining effect increases the compressive strength and ductility of the concrete. The increase in section size is far smaller than with reinforced concrete jacketing.
Steel Bracing Systems
Steel bracing added to the structural frames carries lateral loads directly and increases stiffness and strength. Installation is fast, but closing off the bays affects architectural use.
Flexural Reinforcement with Steel Plate
Steel plates fixed to the underside of a beam with epoxy and anchors increase its flexural capacity. This can be more economical than carbon fibre, but it adds weight and requires corrosion protection.
The Application Process
1. Assessment and design: The existing system is measured, analysis is carried out, and the steel reinforcing elements are sized and designed.
2. Fabrication: The steel elements are cut, drilled and welded in the workshop. Workshop fabrication reduces site labour and time.
3. Surface preparation and anchoring: The concrete surface is made good, anchor holes are drilled and cleaned, and chemical anchors are installed.
4. Installation: The elements are lifted into place, anchored and, where necessary, welded on site. Gaps are filled with epoxy mortar.
5. Corrosion and fire protection: A protective paint system is applied after surface preparation; fire protection coating is provided where required.
Technical Notes and Standards
For the protection of steel surfaces against corrosion, reference is made to TS EN ISO 12944 corrosion categories and paint systems are taken as the basis.
Steel loses strength in a fire; in structures requiring a fire scenario, protective coating or boxing-in must be planned.
Anchor capacity depends directly on the cleanliness of the hole; a chemical anchor in a dusty hole will not reach its design value.
Steel reinforcement is a reversible solution; being removable is a reason for choosing it in historic buildings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is steel strengthening preferred over reinforced concrete?
Installation is fast, and there is no wet trade work or long curing period. This shortens the time the structure is out of service. In addition, being removable is an advantage in historic buildings and in temporary solutions.
Is the appearance intrusive?
The steel elements remain visible in the space. They can be concealed by boxing-in, plasterboard cladding or painting, but these operations must be planned together with fire protection and access for maintenance. In some projects the steel is deliberately left exposed.
Is corrosion a problem?
Yes, if suitable surface preparation and a paint system are not applied. Particularly in damp environments and outdoors, corrosion protection determines the life of the system. Periodic inspection and renewal of the paint must be planned.
Is welding essential?
Not always; there are also systems resolved with bolted and anchored connections. In buildings that remain in use, welding may be avoided because of fire risk and smoke. The type of connection is determined in the design.