Every steel build needs a solid frame to provide it with structure and stability. Within the commercial steel building sector, portal frames are a popular construction technique. Portal frames are widely used in the building of barns, warehouses, storage facilities and any other application that favours wide open spaces.
These two-dimensional structures have a basic makeup of rigid joints between columns and rafters. Their core objective is to minimise the bending of beams and enable the frame to operate as a singular structure.
If you have ever wondered, “What is a portal frame?”, this guide is for you.
Understanding Portal Frames
Portal frames are often utilised to create large, open areas without having to use internal columns or support systems. They are made up of interconnected columns and rafters which form a solid framework that can easily handle heavy loads and external elements, including harsh weather conditions and seismic forces.
The popular portal frame building technique connects vertical supports with horizontal beams using fixed joints. This system results in wide open areas and open floors, making it ideal for agricultural, commercial and industrial settings.
Important Components of Portal Frames
Portal frames are made up of several important elements, these include:
- Columns: These vertical structures offer vertical support and seamlessly transfer loads to the structure’s foundation.
- Rafters: These pitched structures connect the columns, carrying loads across the structure to enhance durability.
- Bracing: These diagonal structures bolster the frame’s stability and stop the risk of any lateral movement.
- Purlins: These secondary beams help the roof covering and also transfer weight to the main structural frame.
When it comes to the construction of these frames, they are often fabricated off-site and then erected by expert installers using welding techniques or bolts. Once the frame has been erected, cladding and roof coverings are installed to envelop the structure and protect it against the elements.
Benefits of Portal Frames
Portal frames allow for the durability and stability of spacious steel builds. They have several exciting benefits, including:
- Perfectly suited for large, open or uninterrupted spaces like warehouses, distribution facilities and barns.
- Cost-effective as there is less need for internal columns (and less labour cost and time).
- Modular and flexible systems that can accommodate different project specs and needs and add greater levels of flexibility.
- They are structurally stable, thanks to their rigidity. This enables portal frames to withstand natural elements like heavy wind and seismic forces.
The Advantages of Steel
Steel structures have gained immense popularity thanks to the durability, lightweightness and speed of installation associated with this powerhouse material.
Some top-tier benefits of steel in construction include:
- Lighter, cheaper, quicker: Steel frames are up to 60% lighter than comparable reinforced concrete frame solutions. This makes it an incredibly efficient material, significantly reducing construction times and shipping costs.
- Bespoke designs: Steel enables architects and engineers to unleash their creativity and build innovative projects based on client briefs. Steel structures allow for a range of extras, including mezzanine levels, enclosed or open bay areas, roller doors, dividing doors, roof ventilation systems and much more.
- Sustainability first: Steel is highly sustainable since it can be recycled and reformed as many times as you want. Regardless of how many times it’s reshaped or transformed, the material won’t downgrade, meaning it’s really the gift that keeps on giving.
- Safer construction sites: Since steel is easier to manage than concrete or timber, construction sites generally use less labour, and this subsequently results in a lower likelihood of accidents. Pre-fabrication options also mean that certain components are manufactured within the safety of workshops, resulting in safer working conditions.
Chat with the Carnegie Team
For more information on our various steel frames and options, chat with our expert team for a zero-obligation, free estimate.