Steel or concrete

When designing the structure every owner, architect, engineer, and the contractor should ask the following question: should it be reinforced concrete or steel frame? … with steel frame supported structure in earthquake zones, it is typical to have large beams and columns to withstand building motions, or drift requirements, of the earthquake. Many times, these requirements in seismic zones are more demanding than the strength requirements of buildings.

Since then progress in the reinforced concrete system has advanced in recent decades, one can say that, now, both steel and concrete can be used for structures in seismic zones; and, both steel and concrete have quality control problem-reinforced concrete or steel frame is really the same? and, both steel and concrete have quality control problem-reinforced concrete or steel frame is truly the same?

In Los Angeles, CA, a 23-story condominium tower having few visible beams and supports was developed. Its seismic capacity is 33% stronger than any other buildings around it. The explanation for such design was made possible by engineering research and high-reactivity metakaolin admixture, enhancing concrete strength above 12,000psi.

So, materials in the building of the structure should not be overlooked when deciding on reinforced concrete or steel frame. Many can say that brick is not the type of material that you would want to use for your building in high seismic zones, but some owners have to have it.