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The use of high-strength vanadium-alloy steel (HSLA-V) can significantly reduce the weight, cost, and environmental impact of long-span steel structures compared to similar structures constructed using conventional steel. This educational tool provides the ability to enter various hypothetical parameters of steel joists and observe the estimated weight savings and estimated greenhouse gas reductions potentially realized through the use of high-strength low-alloy steel compared to low C-Mn steel.
Description of Calculator Tool
This Weight Savings & Carbon Impact Calculator tool estimates the weight savings and greenhouse gas reductions achievable using HSLA-V steel compared to low C-Mn steel in the design of long-span open-web steel roof joists of the type shown in the photo..bmp) The user enters basic information about the joist, such as span, depth, and loading, and the calculator returns the percentage reduction in steel weight and carbon emissions.
The calculator tool is for educational purposes only. Determination of actual savings achievable in a real building require a site-specific analysis by a professional structural engineer. The estimated savings are based on the following assumptions:
- The joist design is based on the Steel Joist Institute’s Specification for Longspan (LH) and Deep Longspan (DLH) joists.
- The joists support a metal roof deck that is fastened at regular intervals to the joist top chord in accordance with industry standards.
- The joists are used in a low-slope roof application (slope less than 1:12).
- All loads are uniform over the full length of the joist.
- The tool does not check joist deflection. In actual buildings, deflection sometimes controls the design.
- The carbon emissions reductions are proportional to the reductions in steel weight, based on the assumption that the higher-strength steel is produced using the same or similar industrial processes as the lower-strength steel. The assumption, therefore, is that higher strength is achieved entirely through the micro-alloying process, rather than through processes that require additional energy inputs, such as reheat.
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The calculator tool is for educational purposes only. |
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.png) The calculator tool is for educational purposes only. |
