The fabrication of steel structures for equipment is similar to that of precision steel structures; it falls somewhere between the processing of standard structural components (which have less stringent requirements) and precision mechanical machining (which demands high levels of refinement). These structures are assembled using either welding or bolting.
Common types of steel structures include: bent structures for industrial plants; frame structures, frame-shear wall structures, and frame-tube structures for multi-story or high-rise buildings; and flat-grid or curved-grid (dome) structures for large-span spaces. The choice of structural form depends on the specific function of the building. Steel structure design must adhere to national technical standards, ensuring that the design is technologically advanced, economically rational, safe, practical, and of high quality. Consequently, the following requirements must be considered during the design and fabrication process:
1. Select an appropriate structural system based on the building's functional requirements, ensuring the design is technologically advanced and innovative, while achieving a harmonious integration of architecture and structure.
2. Since most steel structures (excluding pressure vessels) are composed primarily of linear members, the dimensions of these members should be standardized and modularized as much as possible. This facilitates mechanized fabrication, transportation, and installation, thereby increasing productivity.
3. Utilize high-efficiency steel materials that offer superior economic value.
4. Connections (joints) are critical in steel structures. They must be designed using appropriate methods to ensure that the actual connection aligns with the simplified model used in structural calculations. As the vast majority of historical structural failures have originated at these joints, they require meticulous design and precise construction, employing advanced and reliable connection techniques.