How steel trusses strengthen the roof structure of PEBs?

The roof structure of pre-engineered buildings (PEBs) is crucial in maintaining the building’s stability and integrity. Steel trusses are often a key component in PEB roofs because of their strength, load distribution capabilities, and adaptability. For Indian MSMEs engaged in construction and manufacturing, especially those using the JSW One MSME platform to procure materials, understanding the technical benefits of steel trusses is essential for ensuring the structural reliability of their projects. 

What are steel trusses? 

Steel trusses are structural frameworks made of triangular units connected by straight steel members. The triangular design distributes forces efficiently, allowing the even transfer of loads throughout the structure. In roof applications, trusses support the weight of the roofing material and additional loads like wind, snow, and live loads (such as maintenance personnel). 

This makes them particularly suitable for long-span roof structures, such as those found in warehouses, factories, and industrial sheds.  

Key technical benefits of steel trusses in PEB roof structures 

Optimised load distribution 

In roof structures, the forces acting on the roof are transferred along the truss members, distributing both compression and tension forces across the entire structure. This prevents stress concentrations, which can cause deformation or structural failure over time. Proper load distribution is especially important in large-span roofs, as it reduces the need for internal columns and maximises usable space. 

For PEBs, steel trusses allow for the construction of wide, open areas without the need for multiple support points. This is particularly useful in industrial buildings. 

High strength-to-weight ratio 

Steel trusses have a high strength-to-weight ratio, providing significant structural strength without adding too much weight to the building. This reduces the overall load on the building’s foundation and allows for the use of lighter roofing materials. The lower deadload results in cost savings on materials and labour, as lighter roofs are easier to install and require less structural support. 

Compared to heavier materials like concrete or timber trusses, steel trusses require fewer substantial foundations and columns, lowering overall construction costs and reducing project timelines. 

Long-span capabilities 

Long-span trusses are essential for industrial buildings where large, uninterrupted spaces are required for storage, manufacturing, or moving machinery. Certain trusses, such as the pratt, howe, and warren trusses, are particularly effective in long-span applications. Depending on design and load requirements, these trusses can span 20 to over 100 metres. MSMEs engaged in industrial or warehousing projects can use long-span steel trusses to design functional spaces that optimise operations and reduce construction costs. 

Resistance to environmental factors 

Steel trusses, especially those treated with anti-corrosion coatings like galvanisation or zinc-rich primers, offer excellent resistance to environmental factors such as moisture, humidity, and chemical exposure. This is particularly important for PEBs in coastal regions or industrial environments where exposure to corrosive elements can weaken the structure over time. 

Galvanised steel trusses, for instance, have a protective layer that prevents rusting and corrosion, extending the lifespan of the roof structure. MSMEs can reduce long-term maintenance costs by choosing corrosion-resistant steel trusses and ensuring their PEBs retain structural integrity in harsh environments. 

Ease of installation and flexibility 

Steel trusses are typically prefabricated off-site and delivered to the construction site ready for assembly. This reduces on-site labour and speeds up the construction process, which is especially beneficial in projects with tight timelines. The modular design of steel trusses also provides flexibility, as they can be customised to meet the project's specific needs, whether it involves varying load requirements or unconventional roof shapes. 

For MSMEs working on construction projects, the ease of installation leads to faster project completion and lower labour costs without compromising quality. 

Types of steel trusses used in PEB roofs 

Several types of steel trusses are commonly used in PEB roof systems, each suitable for different load and span requirements: 

• Pratt truss: this design features diagonals that slope toward the centre of the truss and vertical members that provide additional support. Pratt trusses are efficient for long spans and are widely used in industrial buildings. The design allows for effective handling of both tension and compression forces. 

• Howe truss: the diagonals in a Howe truss slope away from the centre, making this truss ideal for supporting heavy vertical loads. It is particularly suited to areas where snow loads are a concern. 

• Warren truss: the Warren truss has a series of equilateral triangles, which provide uniform load distribution. This truss type is suitable for dynamic loads, making it ideal for industrial facilities where machinery movement or vibrations occur. 

• Fink truss: the fink truss is characterised by additional diagonal members, creating smaller triangular sections. This design increases its load-bearing capacity, making it suitable for roofs supporting heavy equipment like HVAC systems or solar panels. 

 Considerations for MSMEs when selecting steel trusses 

When choosing steel trusses for PEB projects, MSMEs should consider the following factors: 

• Design loads: the trusses must be designed to handle all expected loads, including dead loads (roof material weight), live loads, and environmental loads such as wind or snow. 

• Span length: longer spans require stronger truss designs. The choice of truss should align with the project's span and load requirements. 

• Material quality: the steel should meet the necessary standards for tensile strength, corrosion resistance, and durability. MSMEs should procure certified materials from reliable platforms like JSW One MSME. 

• Environmental exposure: in regions with high humidity or corrosive conditions, MSMEs should choose galvanised steel trusses for long-term protection against environmental degradation.