What Is A Composite Beam?

A composite beam is made up of various beams, be it structural members (such as concrete or steel) or non-structural elements (such as flooring and paint). Such beams are used to distribute weight and pressure over a larger area than typical beams. 

A composite beam is a combination of lightweight material, such as plastic, in a structure with more dense material, such as concrete, to give the structure a higher strength-to-weight ratio. To create a composite beam, the designer of the structure can combine a concrete floor with a plastic underside. It allows the floor to be lightweight, while the concrete provides the building with a higher density, thus increasing the strength of the structure. 

You often see composite beams in high-rise buildings, where they reduce the need for concrete and save on maintenance. By reducing the weight of the building as compared to a single-beam design, it has a great effect on seismic safety and the cost of construction. 

Advantages of a Composite Beam 

First, composite beams can be much lighter than traditional concrete beams. Second, composite beams do not require any concrete footings or anchorages, which means that composite beams can be much more efficient than traditional concrete beams. Another key merit is that composite beams are much cheaper than traditional concrete beams, which makes them an attractive option for new construction and renovation. 

Common materials used in composite beams include wood, fiberglass, steel and concrete. While steel is commonly used in composite beams, other materials such as wood, fiberglass or concrete are also used in composite beams. Whether composite steel beam or steel concrete composite beam, they don’t require the same amount of foundation work as concrete or steel beams. 

A composite beam is typically about 20% stronger than a traditional timber beam, and about 10% lighter. It is also much easier to erect and much less disruptive to the natural landscape than a traditional timber beam. 

• Better Adaptability: Composite beams can be used in a variety of environments, including high-traffic areas.
• Better Durability: Composite beams are much more resistant to termite damage than traditional timber beams. This is because the wood is combined with resin to make the beam. Resin is a non-wood based material that is much more resistant to termite attack.
• Less Blight on the Natural Landscape: Composite beams are far less disruptive compared to traditional timber beams. They are usually used in low-lighted or remote locations. 
• Available in a Variety of Design Styles: Composite beams can be used in a variety of designs. 

How to Maintain a Composite Beam?

You should know the best practices for maintenance of composite beams. You need to follow the same maintenance schedule for all other house components which includes regular inspection of the beam, regular maintenance of its components, and regular cleaning of the beam. 

A composite beam should not be over-maintained. Also, they are not a permanent fix-for-all but only a temporary solution for problems like sagging that cannot be fixed with other methods. Keep in mind that the composite beam will have a lifespan determined by the material and the way it is installed. If the beam is installed improperly, it will not last long. For help, call Benchmark Fabricated Steel, a great provider of steel and metal needs since 1971.

Categorised in: Steel Fabrication

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