Analysis of several steel deck types used for shallow-depth floors system (1)

Steel decks are an integral part of any building requiring a shallow-depth floor system, and are commonly used in residential and commercial developments. Choosing the right type of steel deck for different requirements is something that structural designers and steel deck manufacturers need to consider.

Mr. Roy, an expert in the steel decking industry for more than 20 years, can have experience to share regarding this issue.

Use of shallow-depth floors system

The shallow-depth floors system is used mainly in office and commercial buildings. It is an innovative new building technology that has revolutionized office and commercial space design, allowing up to 50 percent more usable square footage in the same amount of space as a typical office building. SDF systems typically use a combination of advanced engineering, design, and fabrication techniques to reduce the floor heights within a building, creating a more efficient use of space. Low floor heights promote greater volumes of natural air flow, reduce the need for mechanical cooling and heating systems, and allow for a very flexible and diverse office design.

Types of steel decking available

There are several types of steel decks that are often used as companion components in a shallow-depth floors system.

SD 46-600 of Steel floor decking

SD 46-600 is the most popular low-rib closed plate type in China, it is mainly used for the steel floor decking of shallow-depth floors. It has a large later bearing capacity, the bottom surface is flat, the effect is beautiful, and various colors of paint can be painted on the steel plate. The standard profile consists of 3 ribs with a rib height of 46 mm and an effective width of 600 mm, with opposing male and female sides forming an interlocking side lap when installed.

SD 35-750 of Steel form decking

SD 35-750 is very versatile, not only can be used as steel form decking in shallow-depth floors, but also used as roofing panels and siding panels. SD 35-750 has a rib height of 35 mm, 6 ribs, and an effective coverage width of 750 mm. The advantages of SD 35-750 are light weight, low steel consumption, low price and easy installation.

SD 35-750 was selected for the 93rd floor of the Shanghai World Financial Center.

SD 38-914 of Steel form decking/ Steel floor decking

SD 38-914 is widely used, often used for shallow-depth floors and flexible roofs. It is widely used not only in North America, but also in Asia and Europe. SD 38-914 can be used as steel floor decking and steel form decking respectively, the difference is whether there is interlocking side lap. If available, it can be used as a steel floor decking, otherwise, as a steel form decking.

SD 38-914 is 1.5 inches high, has 6 ribs, and is 3 feet (914) wide.

As can be seen from several of the steel deck types described above, the rib heights of these steel decks are relatively low, while being consistent with the thin floor thickness of the shallow-depth floors . Since the floor thickness is relatively small, the required rib height of the steel deck needs to be low, which makes these three types of steel decks useful for ribbing.