FAQ

Comparison between conventional hot-rolled steel construction and PEB (Pre-Engineered Building) system of construction?

The main differences are: In PEB system the complete steel building package which is delivered to site from a single supplier as a fully finished product, which includes the structural steel, cladding system and building accessories. Site erection is fast and simple – just bolting together the various building components as per the erection drawings provided. No site fabrication or welding is involved. Therefore, quality is far more superior and a large chunk of time is saved in comparison to conventional steel construction methods.

It is highly efficient in design due to synergy between building components. Primary members are made of tapered built-up sections and roof/wall secondary members from cold rolled sections designed as continuous beams. High strength steel is used and all structural elements are fully optimised by the proprietary computerised design program. This leads to significant reduction in dead load reactions to foundations.

Is it possible to have concrete wall as exterior skin/interior partition as in the case of residential buildings – from bondage point of view between structural steel and concrete walls?

Yes, concrete walls can be tied to PEB systems steel columns with ties for lateral support. In few cases, building systems will design the structure with low horizontal deflections to prevent cracking of concrete. Sometimes consultants will detail the concrete wall to be isolated from the steel structure, which allows optimization of steel building and lower cost. When required, pre-engineered building systems can also provide beams to support concrete walls above openings etc. and PEB systems design will follow the requirements of the architectural drawings on any project.

Can we have some concrete slabs for different floors and how is the slab laid above the steel structure?

Yes, PEB systems can provide steel deck over steel floor framing to receive cast in site slab. The steel deck acts as a shutter to support the wet concrete. The slab should be reinforced and designed for the total floor load.

What is the level of saving in foundation costs using PEB systems compared to conventional steel buildings?

Due to lower weight, we estimate savings to be at least 5%. For example, if you compare the local method of using fixed bases versus pinned bases, the saving would be in excess of 15%.

Will you provide design details before supplying/erecting your structures?

Yes, if it is requested by the customer. All comments received from the customer on the approval of drawings are incorporated in the final drawings.

What is the minimum thickness of your main steel members?

Should be according to prevalent regulation where the project is built.

Please explain compatibility to fire resistance requirements of a main structural frames, covering etc. Modification to existing structure – is it done by welding or bolting?

Fire resistance on steel structure can be achieved by enclosing the steel with a fire protection system. This can be done by spraying fire resistant coating on steel members or enclosing the steel with gypsum board as per UL approved details.

Does PEB systems suitable for Indian weather conditions?

Yes, PEB Systems has supplied buildings for a range of weather conditions including snow, high temperatures, high humidity, proximity to sea, heavy rainfall, cyclone, wind speeds, seismic loads, etc. based on the ambient conditions at the site and building usage.

Are you providing end-to-end building solutions? What about flooring?

PEB systems can supply the complete steel portion including standard accessories. Accessories that are not manufactured by PEB systems can be supplied as buy outs (E.g. Rolling up doors etc.) and be included in the scope of supply. For mezzanine floors, PEB systems will be providing the steel framing and steel deck to receive in site concrete slab. If flooring is pre-cast, concrete panels will provide the floor supports beams.

What amount is the saving in foundations?

The saving would be basically due to less number of column foundations due to large spans and bay spacing. Reduction in column reactions due to less dead load of steel also plays a vital role. It is not possible to quantify the cost savings as it would vary by type of project.

Are your connections site bolted or welded?

Yes, all field connections are bolted. There is absolutely no site welding required. This is one of the major advantages with PEB systems, which considerably reduces the time for site erection.

Will your PEB systems provide portable type units for field offices, stores and small workshops?

As PEB systems are assembled at the site by bolting, the units can be dismantled and shifted to new locations and reassembled. PEB systems can also provide small portable units, which can be transported in trucks in one piece from place to place.

Economy is very important in warehouse construction for lease purpose. Can PEB systems deliver the goods taking this aspect into account?

PEB systems are ideally suited for warehouse construction. Due to the significant optimisation capabilities of the PEB systems and the quick delivery, the customer will benefit from cost and time savings on the project.

It appears that you have to predetermine all the requirements before ordering the building. It may not be possible sometimes. What is the flexibility available for any change in requirements later?

It is more economical to initially design the building incorporating future requirements like increasing width, length, loading additional cranes, etc. This will avoid any site modification work later. However, in cases where a client needs a building modification, which was not previously considered, this can be done by making the changes on site. However, to avoid this, normally, consultants take a conservative approach and initially specify higher design loads to cover for future requirements.

How do you quote the rates? What is the mode of payment?

We do not quote unit rates, we will design and price the building and sign the contract based on fixed lump sum price. The standard mode of payment is 20% down payment and balance as the work progresses.

Is it possible to dismantle the building and rebuild at another place? What would be the cost of new and reassembled building?

Yes, since the building is site assembled by bolting, it is possible to dismantle and rebuild at a new location. The cost benefits have to be worked out on a case-by-case basis which is depend on size, complexity and distance at new location.