You are here: Home / Blogs / Blog / The Difference Between Steel Structure and Space Frame

The Difference Between Steel Structure and Space Frame

Views: 0     Author: Site Editor     Publish Time: 2026-01-12      Origin: Site

Inquire

facebook sharing button
twitter sharing button
line sharing button
wechat sharing button
linkedin sharing button
pinterest sharing button
whatsapp sharing button
sharethis sharing button

When you examine steel structures vs space frames, it's clear that they are distinct systems. You can observe how builders connect the components and the materials they select. Each system addresses weight and force differently, which is crucial in determining the best option for your project. One system may be more suitable for your needs, depending on your requirements for strength, design, and overall functionality.


Key Takeaways

  • Steel structures use welded joints to be strong. This makes them good for tall buildings and heavy things.

  • Space frames use bolted joints, so they are easy to put together. They are flexible and great for big open areas.

  • Think about what your project needs. Pick space frames if you want to build fast and keep things light. Pick steel structures if you need something strong and steady.

  • Both systems spread out force in special ways. Space frames spread loads in three directions. Steel structures focus on one main direction.

  • Ask experts like Jiangsu Lianfang Steel Structure Engineering Co., Ltd. for help. They can guide you to pick the best system for your project.


Connection Methods in Steel Structures vs Space Frames

Hinged Bolted Joints in Space Frame Structure

When you look at a space frame structure, you will notice that builders often use hinged bolted joints. These joints connect the pipes or bars at special nodes. Each node acts like a hub where several members meet. You can think of it as a ball with rods sticking out in different directions. Workers use bolts to attach each rod to the node. This method allows the frame to move a little at each joint, which helps spread out the forces. You will find that this makes the whole structure lighter and more flexible. It also makes assembly faster because workers can bolt the parts together on site. Jiangsu Lianfang Steel Structure Engineering Co., Ltd. has a skilled team that can design and install these joints with great accuracy. Their experience ensures that every steel space frame meets high safety and quality standards.

Welded Rigid Joints in Steel Structure

In a steel structure, you will often see welded rigid joints. Welders use heat to fuse two steel pieces together. This creates a strong and stiff connection. Unlike bolted joints, welded joints do not allow movement. The structure acts as one solid piece. This gives the building more strength and helps it resist heavy loads. Welded joints are common in columns, beams, and trusses. You will see these joints in many large buildings and bridges. Lianfang’s team uses advanced welding equipment and follows strict quality rules. Their experts make sure every weld is strong and safe.

Assembly and Performance Impact

The way you connect the parts of a structure changes how it performs. Bolted joints in a space frame structure make the assembly process quick and easy. You can build large roofs or domes in less time. The joints help the frame handle forces from many directions. This makes the structure stable and light. Welded joints in a steel structure give you a very strong and stiff frame. This is good for buildings that need to carry heavy loads or stand tall. Welded connections take more time and skill to make, but they give you a solid and lasting result.

Tip: When you choose between these systems, think about your project’s needs. If you want fast assembly and a light frame, a space frame structure with bolted joints may work best. If you need extra strength and stiffness, a steel structure with welded joints could be the right choice. Jiangsu Lianfang Steel Structure Engineering Co., Ltd. can help you decide. Their team has deep knowledge of both connection methods and can guide you to the best solution for your project.


Materials and Forms in Steel Structure and Space Frame Structure

Materials and Forms in Steel Structure and Space Frame Structure
Image Source: unsplash

Material Choices for Space Frame Structure

A space frame structure uses different materials. Most builders pick steel pipes or bars. Steel is strong and lasts a long time. Sometimes, aluminum or composite materials are used. These materials make the frame lighter and easier to move. You can pick the material that fits your project. Jiangsu Lianfang Steel Structure Engineering Co., Ltd. has many choices for space frames. Their team helps you find the best material for your building.

Note: Steel space frame systems are liked because they are strong and flexible. They can cover big areas without needing heavy supports.

Steel Material in Steel Structure

Steel structure buildings use steel as the main material. Steel beams, columns, and trusses are important parts. Steel does not bend or break easily. This keeps your building safe and strong. Lianfang uses top-quality steel for every project. Their factory has machines that shape and weld steel parts well. You can trust their products to be safe and work well.

  • Steel beams hold up heavy things.

  • Steel columns support tall buildings.

  • Steel trusses make wide, open spaces.

Structural Form Variations

You can pick from many forms with steel or space frames. Space frames are good for domes, roofs, and canopies. These forms cover big spaces with fewer columns. Steel structure systems give you more options. You can build multi-story buildings, bridges, or industrial halls. Lianfang’s design team uses smart software to plan each part. You get a structure that works for you and looks nice.

If you want a special design, Lianfang can help you at every step. Their experts help you choose the right form and material for your project.


Structural Systems and Stability

Structural Systems and Stability
Image Source: pexels

3D Force Distribution in Space Frame Structure

You will notice that a space frame structure spreads forces in three directions. Each bar or pipe connects at special nodes. When you put weight on the frame, the force travels through many paths. This 3D force distribution helps the structure stay stable. You can use a space frame for large roofs or domes. The design lets you cover big areas with fewer columns. You get a strong frame that feels light. Many builders choose space frames when they need high load-bearing capacity and want to keep the structure open.

Tip: Space frames work well for stadiums, exhibition halls, and airports. You can trust them to handle heavy loads from different angles.

Unidirectional Stress in Steel Structure Trusses

A steel structure truss works in a different way. You will see that the truss handles stress in one main direction. The beams and columns carry the weight straight down to the ground. This method gives you a simple path for the force. You can use a steel structure for tall buildings, bridges, or factories. The design makes it easy to predict how the structure will act under load. You get a frame that stands strong and lasts a long time.

  • Steel structure trusses give you clear lines of support.

  • You can build high or wide spaces with this system.

Stability Solutions

You need to keep your building safe and steady. Space frames use their 3D shape to resist bending and twisting. The joints and bars work together to stop movement. In a steel structure, you often add bracing or stiffeners. These parts help the frame stay straight and not bend. You can ask experts at Jiangsu Lianfang Steel Structure Engineering Co., Ltd. for help. Their team knows how to design both systems for the best stability.

Remember: Good stability means your building will last longer and stay safe for everyone.


Project Selection Factors for Steel Structures vs Space Frames

Manufacturing and Standards

You should think about how each system is made. Steel structures use big beams and columns. Workers shape and weld these in a factory. Space frames use pipes and nodes. Workers bolt these together at the building site. Both systems follow strict safety rules.

Jiangsu Lianfang Steel Structure Engineering Co., Ltd. uses modern machines and skilled workers. Their products meet high standards. The company has ISO9001:2008, ISO14001:2004, and OHSAS18001:2007 certificates. These show Lianfang cares about quality, safety, and the environment. You can trust their team to build strong and safe structures.

If you want a building that meets world standards, pick a company with lots of experience. Lianfang offers design, manufacturing, and installation in one place. You save time and avoid mistakes.

Application Scenarios

You see steel structures and space frames in many places. Each system works best for different jobs. Steel structures are good for tall buildings, bridges, and factories. You need them for heavy loads or regular building shapes. Space frames cover big open spaces. You find them in stadiums, airports, and exhibition halls. These frames are light and easy to put together.

Light steel construction is great for quick projects. You get strong buildings fast. Space frames help you build roofs and domes with fewer columns. You make open spaces that look bright and modern.

System Type

Best Use Cases

Key Features

Steel Structures

High-rise, bridges, factories

Strong, tall, durable

Space Frames

Stadiums, airports, domes

Light, open, flexible

Tip: Think about your project’s size, shape, and what you need. Pick the system that fits your goals.

Selection Guidance

You want to choose the best system for your project. Start by writing down what you need. Do you want a tall building or a wide space? Do you need fast building or extra strength? Compare steel structures and space frames using your answers.

Lianfang gives advice and design help. You can talk to their experts. They help you plan, design, and build your project. You get tips on materials, forms, and keeping things stable. Their team handles everything, from drawings to building. You see your ideas become real.

Note: Good planning helps you get better results. Use Lianfang’s one-stop service to make your project easy and successful.

You make smart choices when you know the differences. Steel structures and space frames both have good points. Lianfang helps you use these for your project.

You now know the key differences between steel structures and space frames.

  • Steel structures use welded joints and strong beams for tall or heavy buildings.

  • Space frames use bolted joints and light pipes for wide, open spaces.

  • Each system handles forces in its own way.

If you want the best results, talk to experts at Jiangsu Lianfang Steel Structure Engineering Co., Ltd. They help you choose the right system for your project.


FAQ

What is the main difference between a steel structure and a space frame?

You will see that a steel structure uses beams and columns for support. A space frame uses many bars connected at nodes. Space frames spread loads in three directions. Steel structures handle loads in one main direction.

Can I use a space frame for a small building?

You can use a space frame for small buildings, but it works best for large, open spaces. If you want a simple, small structure, a regular steel frame may be easier and more cost-effective.

How do I choose the right system for my project?

Start by listing your needs. Think about size, shape, and speed.

Are steel structures and space frames safe?

Yes, both systems are safe when you follow proper design and construction standards.

  • You should always work with certified companies like Lianfang.

  • Their team uses strict quality checks to keep your building safe.

Jiangsu Lianfang Steel Structure Engineering Co., Ltd.
A comprehensive steel structure company integrating processing design, installation, and technical services.

About Lianfang

Is a comprehensive steel structure company integrating processing design, installation and technical services of grids, steel structures, pipe trusses and spherical grids.

Quick Links

Projects Category

Contact Us

Tel: +8618361220712;+8618361220711
Email:  lianfangsteel@hotmail.com
Add: Dapeng Industrial Park, West Suburb, Xuzhou, Jiangsu
 
Leave a Message
CONTACT US
Copyright © 2024 Jiangsu Lianfang Steel Structure Engineering Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. SitemapPrivacy Policy