When a composite beam is constructed using a profiled steel deck, a void is created between the deck and the top flange of the beam.
When a composite beam is constructed using a profiled steel deck, a void is created between the deck and the top flange of the beam. With open trapezoidal steel decks this void is comparatively large while with a ‘closed dovetail’™ deck the void is much smaller. In the case of the open trapezoidal deck the fire resistance of the composite beam may be reduced because of the effects of additional heat entering the steel beam through the top surface of the flange. This article presents the background to determining the fire resistance of composite beams with profiled steel decking and recommendations for how to modify fire protection of beams supporting steel decking where voids occur.
Kevin Cowie
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