Design of Steel Decking System

Design of Steel Decking System using the most common APO and Philmetal steel deck product.

APO and Philmetal are two prominent manufacturers of steel decking products in the Philippines. When designing a steel decking system using their products, you'll follow a general design process applicable to most steel decking systems, while also considering the specific product specifications provided by the manufacturers.

Here is a step-by-step guide for designing a steel decking system using APO and Philmetal steel deck products:

1. Choose the appropriate steel deck product: Both APO and Philmetal offer a variety of steel decking profiles with different specifications. Select the steel deck profile that best suits your project requirements, taking into account factors such as span lengths, load capacities, and the intended use of the structure.

2. Determine the design loads: Calculate the design loads acting on the steel decking system, which typically include dead loads (self-weight of the steel deck, concrete, and other permanent fixtures) and live loads (occupancy, furniture, and other non-permanent loads). Consider any applicable code requirements or guidelines to ensure that the design loads meet the minimum standards.

3. Evaluate the steel deck's load-carrying capacity: Based on the manufacturer's specifications, determine the load-carrying capacity of the selected steel deck profile. Ensure that the profile's capacity can support the design loads for the intended span lengths.

4. Design the supporting structure: Design the supporting structural elements, such as beams, columns, and connections, that will support the steel decking system. Ensure that these structural elements are designed to carry the loads transferred from the steel deck and meet the applicable design codes and standards.

5. Specify the concrete slab thickness: Determine the thickness of the concrete slab that will be placed over the steel deck. Consider factors such as the required fire resistance rating, load capacity, and deflection limits. Consult the manufacturer's guidelines for minimum and maximum slab thicknesses for the chosen steel deck profile.

6. Design the composite action: For composite decking systems, where the steel deck and concrete slab act together to resist loads, design the shear connectors (such as stud welds) that will transfer the load between the two materials. Ensure that the shear connectors meet the required strength and spacing requirements.

7. Verify deflection limits: Check that the deflections of the steel deck under the design loads are within the acceptable limits specified by the manufacturer and the relevant design codes.

8. Detail the steel deck installation: Prepare detailed drawings and specifications for the installation of the steel decking system, including the layout, edge conditions, openings, and any required reinforcements.

9. Perform quality control checks: Ensure that the steel decking system is installed according to the manufacturer's guidelines and the design specifications. Perform inspections during and after installation to verify that the system meets the required standards and tolerances.

By following these steps, you can design a steel decking system using APO and Philmetal steel deck products. Be sure to consult the manufacturer's guidelines and the relevant design codes to ensure that your steel decking system meets all required standards and performs as intended.