Architecturally Exposed Structural Steel

IT TAKES A HUGE AMOUNT OF TIME AND ENERGY TO CREATE AN ELEGANT STRUCTURAL SYSTEM. WHY HIDE ALL THAT WORK WHEN YOU CAN SHOW IT OFF?
Architecturally exposed structural steel (AESS) puts the aesthetic focus on the structural integrity of a building. The striking visual impact of these iconic structures is possible because steel is fabricated in a nearly limitless range of shapes, tapered forms, curves, colors, and finishes.

Structural steel comprises elements that are required to support the design loads of a building and fit within the components of a structural frame, according to the AISC Code of Standard Practice (ANSI/AISC 303-16). For clarity, the Architecturally Exposed Structural Steel (AESS) category system is typically only applied to fabricated structural steel elements such as anchor rods, base plates, beams, bracing, canopy framing, columns, connection materials, crane stops, girders, lintels, posts, shear stud connectors, and trusses. Unfinished, reused, galvanized, or weathering steel members may all be fabricated with AESS requirements.

AESS components get the royal treatment during fabrication, shipment, and erection to avoid blemishes and unwanted surface appearance. Workers take extra care when handling the steel and removing temporary braces or fixtures. For some categories, all backing and runoff tabs are removed, and welds are ground smooth. Oil, grease, dirt, and loose mill must also be removed from basic, unpainted steel for an attractive, striking finish.