With the effects caused by the forces of nature, it is increasingly necessary to insert elements along with the steel frame to stiffen the metallic structure. For this, it is necessary to use a connection system between the main elements of the structure to increase the rigidity of the set, the bracing. They emerge as a way to prevent deformation of walls against lateral loads generated by strong winds and even earthquakes, and also collaborate with the safety of buildings and homes.
In Brazil, they become useful in regions where the passage of tornadoes is frequent, such as the south of the country, for example. According to information released by the Integrated Disaster Information System (S2iD), of the Ministry of Regional Development, between 2003 and 2021, 16 recognized occurrences of tornadoes were recorded in Rio Grande do Sul. The years 2017 and 2018 were the ones with the highest number of recognized occurrences in the period considered. The data show a general trend of increasing occurrences of this phenomenon in the State.
Bracing can be done using San Andrés crosses, Oriented Strand Board (OSB), in the free translation into Portuguese, sheets of oriented wood strips, or phenolic multilaminates. In addition, in the construction area, it becomes a profitable option that serves as a substrate for placing insulation and exterior coatings.
However, for them to actually fulfill their function, and offer the necessary security for both the work and the public, it is essential to follow certain steps, before and after assembly.
Storage
Pay attention to the correct way to store the materials that will be used as bracing. They must be protected from rain and humidity in the environment, so that they are not damaged and their structural capacity is preserved.
Placing the OSB prior to assembly
In the assembly phase, all the structural elements are interconnected to ensure that they work in solidarity with each other. At this stage, it is necessary that the bracing is linked to the elements of the work, so that the set absorbs the lateral loads to which it will be exposed.
Correct insertion of material
The correct insertion of the materials depends entirely on the measures being followed, so it is possible that the material can perform its function and avoid cracks.
“For the correct placement of the panels, it is necessary that the plates have a minimum thickness of 12 mm and are fixed to the profiles by “wing screws” separated according to the detailed engineering, fitted together and with the spans mounted as C or L” , explains Frank Lucian Vosgerau, Barbieri’s commercial manager in Brazil.
The recommendation is that the use of braces be more frequent in construction projects, since, without their existence, the structure has a direct negative impact and can even generate serious problems related to safety.
The same must be used together with the Steel Frame, a system that has become popular in the United States since 1995, where 84% of the works are made with the resource. And it becomes a differentiator because it is highly resistant to earthquakes in buildings and shopping centers, reducing its impact.
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