Light Gauge Steel or (LGS)
It is a type of solid product that is manufactured and formed using mechanical forces and without the need to heat it. This is done at or near room temperature. Which distinguishes it from hot rolled iron, which is formed when the iron is hot, Light Gauge Steel is known for its quality. It allows manufacturing processes to maintain precisely defined dimensions and consistent shapes. When it is formed at low temperatures, becomes strong and durable, Light Gauge Steel finds wide applications in a variety of industries such as construction, automotive and manufacturing. It is widely used in light framing systems for buildings and in the production of components such as body panels, frames and attachments. In the field of construction, Light Gauge Steel sections are commonly used because of their efficiency and ease of handling. Design standards and rules have been established to ensure the safe and effective use of Light Gauge Steel products in various structural and non-structural applications
in general, Light Gauge Steel is a versatile and cost-effective option. It saves time and effort and has excellent mechanical properties. Making it a crucial material in modern engineering and manufacturing. Light Gauge Steelis covered with a thin layer of zinc or zinc alloy. This layer is an effective way to prevent corrosion. This protection is achieved because zinc reacts with chemicals more easily than iron itself. As a practical model, When iron is exposed to oxygen in the air, It begins to form a layer of iron oxide, Known as rust. However, When iron is galvanized, Zinc interferes with this process by reacting with oxygen to form a layer of zinc oxide before rust can form. This protective layer of zinc oxide acts as a barrier that protects the iron from corrosion and extends the life of zinc-coated metal materials.
Light Gauge Steel in construction :
Power to weight ratio: Light Gauge Steel has a high strength-to-weight ratio. This makes it suitable for applications where strength is critical, But the weight should be reduced to a minimum. This is especially important in multi-storey buildings, Lighter steel construction materials can reduce foundations and overall structural costs
Consistency: Cold forming processes allow for precise and consistent shaping of iron components. This consistency ensures that each piece meets exact specifications, Which leads to uniformity and reliability in construction
Cost-effective: Light Gauge Steel is often more cost-effective than traditional hot-rolled iron because it requires less material waste and lower production costs. In addition It is easier to transport and load due to its light weight
Durability: Light Gauge Steel is very durable and can withstand various environmental conditions, Including extreme temperatures, humidity and corrosion. This durability makes it suitable for long-term construction projects
Design flexibility: Light Gauge Steel can be easily customized to fit specific design requirements. It can be formed into different shapes and sizes, Allowing architects and engineers to achieve unique creativity and designs
Construction speed: Light Gauge Steel components are usually lightweight and easy to assemble. Resulting in faster build times. This can reduce labor costs and speed up project completion
Sustainability: Light Gauge Steel is a sustainable building material. It is recyclable and often contains a high percentage of recycled content, Which reduces its environmental impact
Common applications of Light Gauge Steel in construction include the following
Framing: Light Gauge Steelis commonly used for framing in residential and commercial buildings, It can be used for both load-bearing and non-load-bearing walls
Roofing: It is used for roof trusses and purlins in residential and industrial buildings
Flooring systems: Light Gauge Steel is used in floor joists and decking systems
Bolts and tracks systems: It is used in the construction of interior partition walls and ceiling systems
Structural members: Light Gauge Steel is used in many structural components, Including columns, beams and standby
Cladding and packaging: It can be used in cladding and packaging applications, Which provides structural support and resistance to weather conditions
Light Gauge Steel is manufactured in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by Omran Tech Group. It is a leading group in the field of architecture, Specialized in modern construction techniques
Light Gauge Steel was approved in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by a ministerial decision from the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing Resolution No. 4699 dated 01/25/1431 AH
Omran Tech Group produces cold formed iron and can also do off-site prefabrication.
History of Light Gauge Steel :
The history of Light Gauge Steel iron dates back to the nineteenth century. With many developments and major milestone developments that have led to its widespread use in modern construction and manufacturing. Here are some points in the history of Light Gauge Steel
Early developments (19th century): The concept of Light Gauge Steel began to appear in the nineteenth century in the United States and the United Kingdom. Driven by the need to industrialize and improve process efficiency. Initial efforts included cold bending and forming of iron sections for architectural purposes and industrial applications. However, These early processes were limited in accuracy and consistency
Introduction to rolled shapes (early 20th century): In the early twentieth century, Advances in manufacturing have led to the production of cold-formed iron sections using rolling milling processes. This enabled the creation of uniform shapes with improved accuracy, This expanded the range of applications for Light Gauge Steel
World War II and industrialization: The demand for cost-effective and easy-to-produce materials during World War II led to further advances in cold forming technology. Light Gauge Steel played a role in wartime construction and industrialization efforts
Post-war construction boom: After World War II, There has been a significant increase in construction activity, Especially in residential housing, Light Gauge Steel has gained popularity due to its lightweight frames, like iron nails, Due to its ease of use and cost effectiveness
Advances in materials science: Continuing developments in metallurgy and materials science have given rise to the production of high-strength steel that can be effectively cold formed. These developments have contributed to improving the endurance capabilities and performance of Light Gauge Steel components
Codification and standards: Establishing design codes and standards for steel cold forming, Such as the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) Specifications for the Design of Light Gauge Steel products for Structural Members have provided guidance for safe and efficient use in structural applications.
Recent applications: Light Gauge Steel is now widely used in a range of industries, Including construction, automobiles, manufacturing and furniture production. It offers benefits such as precision dimensional control, efficiency in production, And recyclability. over the years, Light Gauge Steel has become an essential cold bending technique in an advanced manufacturing process capable of producing complex and precise shapes. Its history reflects a constant drive for efficiency, cost-effectiveness and innovation in materials and manufacturing techniques
Materials :
Light Gauge Steel is usually made from low carbon iron or soft iron. This type of iron is chosen for its ability to easily form, bend and shape using cold working processes without the need for excessive heat. Specific material properties required for cold-formed steel include good ductility, Workability and configurability. Below are some of the key aspects of materials used in Light Gauge Steel
Low carbon iron: Light Gauge Steel is manufactured primarily from low-carbon iron, Which contains a relatively low percentage of carbon compared to other types of iron. This makes the iron softer and easier to shape without becoming brittle
Formability: The material used in Light Gauge Steel iron must have good formability, allowing it to be bent, twisted, compressed, It is stamped into different shapes and configurations without cracking or breaking
Power: Although Light Gauge Steel is not as strong as some other types of iron, However, the hardening that occurs during cold forming can enhance its strength and durability. The use of high-strength iron can improve the structural performance of Light Gauge Steel components
Thickness and coating: Light Gauge Steel can come in various thicknesses and with thinner gauges commonly used for applications such as iron framing in construction. In addition Light Gauge Steel products can be painted or galvanized to provide corrosion resistance and improve longevity
Standard grades: The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) has established uniform grades for Light Gauge Steel, Such as AISI 1008, AISI 1010, AISI 1018, And others. These grades have specific chemical compositions and mechanical properties designed for cold forming operations
Recyclability: Light Gauge Steel is known for its recyclability. Which makes it an environmentally friendly option. The ease of recycling contributes to its sustainable nature and is compatible with modern green buildings
It is important to note that the materials used in Light Gauge Steel can vary based on the intended application and the specific requirements of the project. Different industries and applications may require different grades of steel to achieve the desired balance between strength, formability and cost-effectiveness
Types :
Light Gauge Steel is used to produce a wide range of structural and non-structural components to meet your specific engineering and design requirements. These components come in different shapes, sizes, and configurations. Below are some common types of Light Gauge Steel
Bolts and joists: Light Gauge iron studs and joists are used in construction for framing walls, floors and roofs. They provide a lightweight and durable alternative to traditional timber frame and concrete construction
Channels: Light Gauge Steel channels are often used as structural components in construction. They can serve as support beams, framing elements, or lintels over openings such as doors and windows
Hat Sections: Hat sections are used, Also known as track sections, Combined with dowels to create wall systems and partitions. They provide additional support and allow multiple materials to be attached
Supplies and belts: Light Gauge Steel purlins and belts are used in roofing and cladding systems. They provide structural support for roof and wall panels in industrial and commercial buildings
Floor decking boards: Light Gauge Steel floor decking panels are used to create composite floors in buildings. They serve as formwork while concrete is being poured and as a structural element once the concrete is poured and hardened
Roof trusses: Light Gauge Steel roof trusses provide a lightweight and versatile roof framing solution. They are often used in residential, commercial and industrial buildings
Assembling Light Gauge Steel :
The assembly of Light Gauge Steel components involves a combination of design, preparation, and construction processes. Omran Tech Group specializes in manufacturing and processing Light Gauge Steel. It has its own off-site manufacturing and prefabrication plant at Qimma Al Omran Factory. This is how Light Gauge Steel is manufactured
Design and planning: We begin by creating a detailed structural design that outlines the design, dimensions and load requirements of the Light Gauge Steel components. This involves the use of specialized software for structural analysis and design
Selection of components: We select the appropriate types and sizes of Light Gauge Steel components based on design specifications and intended use
preparation: Purchase materials: We have to make sure that we have all the required Light Gauge Steel iron, components, fasteners and other necessary materials before starting the assembly process.
Prefabrication: At Imran Tech, We can manufacture an entire house off-site where the steel is completely formed. The steel structure of the house is manufactured in our factory and then transported and installed as needed. Some components such as wall supports or roof trusses can be prefabricated off-site and then installed on-site. This can help simplify the construction process and ensure higher quality
Building: Foundation and base: If the project includes structural elements such as columns or foundation anchors, They must be installed first to provide a stable base
Layout and alignment: We carefully mark the layout at the construction site to guide the assembly process. We use laser levels, vertical gates, and other tools to ensure precise alignment
Communication ways: Light Gauge Steel components are usually connected using fasteners such as bolts and rivets. The appropriate connection method depends on the design, load and specific requirements
Installation: We install components according to design, Making sure the holes and connections are aligned precisely. We tighten fasteners to recommended torque specifications
Reinforcement and stabilization: When assembling the structure, We use temporary bracing or stabilization to prevent movement or collapse during construction. Once the structure is complete, Temporary stents can be removed or replaced with permanent stents
Roof and wall panels: if possible, We attach the roof and wall panels to the Light Gauge Steel frame. These panels can be made of different materials such as metal, wood or composite materials
final touches: At this stage, We may need to add insulation, finishes, electrical wiring, and other items.
Advantages of Light Gauge Steel :
Cost effectiveness: Advantages of Light Gauge Steel : Ease of manufacture, transportation and installation contribute to overall cost savings
Design flexibility: Light Gauge Steel can be easily formed into different sizes and types of configurations, Allowing for diverse design possibilities in construction and manufacturing
Power to weight ratio: Light Gauge Steel has a high strength-to-weight ratio. This makes it suitable for lightweight structures that require good bearing capacity
. Accurate Dimensions: Machining processes used in cold forming result in dimensional accuracy and consistency, resulting in easy assembly and compatibility with standard components
Recycling: Light Gauge Steel is recyclable, This is in line with sustainability goals and reduces the environmental impact of construction and manufacturing operations
Construction speed: Light Gauge Steel components can be prefabricated off-site, Which leads to faster construction and reduced construction times
Low foundation requirements: The lightweight nature of Light Gauge Steel can reduce foundation loads, Resulting in potential savings in foundation costs
Fire and pest resistance: Light Gauge Steel is non-combustible and can last up to three hours against fire and is also resistant to pests such as termites and mold. Which definitely provides extra durability for applications
Fire resistance of cold-formed iron
Fire resistance of Light Gauge Steel is an important consideration in building design and construction. While Light Gauge Steel itself is not combustible, However, its resistance to fire depends on several factors: Including the thickness of the steel, the type of insulation used, and the overall design of the structure
Here are some key points to understand about the fire resistance of Light Gauge Steel
Thermal conductivity: Light Gauge Steel has a higher thermal conductivity compared to some other types of building materials. Which means it can transfer heat more quickly. In the event of a fire, This property can lead to faster heat transfer through steel members
Retaining strength: The strength of Light Gauge Steel can be greatly affected by high temperatures. As the temperature rises, The endurance of steel decreases. This can affect the structural integrity of the building during a fire
Insulation: To enhance the fire resistance of Light Gauge Steel, Insulating materials are often used to slow heat transfer and keep the structure stable. Insulating materials such as rock or mineral wool, fire-retardant paint, or intumescent paint can be used to protect iron from the effects of fire
Fire protection measures: Our designers and engineers incorporate fire protection measures to ensure that Light Gauge Steel structures meet safety requirements. This may include the use of gypsum boards, fire-resistant coatings, or other approved methods to protect steel members from high temperatures
Fire Ratings: Fire ratings are assigned to building components based on their ability to resist fire for a certain period of time. These ratings take into account factors such as durability, integrity (preventing the spread of fire), Insulation (keep the other side cool)
Fire ratings for Light Gauge Steel structures can vary based on the specific design and protective measures
Compliance with laws: Building codes and standards specify fire resistance requirements for various building types and structure types. These codes provide guidance on fire protection measures, insulation and other factors affecting the fire performance of Light Gauge Steel structures
Fire test: Fire testing is performed to evaluate the behavior of Light Gauge Steel structures under fire conditions. These tests help designers and engineers determine the appropriate fire protection and measures needed for a particular design. Briefly, While Light Gauge Steel is fire-resistant due to its non-combustible nature, Additional measures are often needed to enhance its performance against fire. The design and construction of Light Gauge fire-rated steel structures requires careful consideration of insulation, protective materials and compliance with relevant building codes. Consultation with our fire protection engineers and experts is essential to ensure that the structure meets fire safety requirements
Countries that use Light Gauge Steel :
Light Gauge Steel is widely used across the world in various countries due to its versatility, cost effectiveness and suitability for both residential and commercial construction. As well as in manufacturing and other industries. Here are some countries where Light Gauge Steel is popular
United State: The United States has a long history of using Light Gauge Steel in construction. They are widely used for framing residential, commercial buildings and industrial plants
Canada: Similar to the United States, Canada uses Light Gauge Steel extensively in construction, Especially in areas with harsh weather conditions where the durability and strength of iron is beneficial
Australia: Light Gauge Steel is a popular choice for residential and light commercial construction in Australia due to its flexibility, It is lightweight in nature, And its ability to withstand seismic activity
United kingdom: Light Gauge Steel is widely used in the UK for residential and commercial construction purposes. As well as in standard building systems
China: China is a large consumer of Light Gauge Steel for its booming construction industry. Rapid urbanization of the country has increased the use of Light Gauge Steel in various construction applications
India: Light Gauge Steel is gaining popularity in India for residential and commercial construction purposes due to ease of use, speed of construction and cost effectiveness
Japan: Japan uses Light Gauge Steel for its earthquake-resistant properties. In addition to its efficiency in construction and its ability to create complex shapes
South Korea: Light Gauge Steel is used in residential and commercial construction in South Korea because of its strength and suitability for prefabricated building systems
European countries: Many European countries use it, Such as Germany, France, Holland Light Gauge Steel for a range of applications, Including residential, commercial and industrial buildings
Middle East countries: In the Middle East, Light Gauge Steel is used in construction due to its ability to withstand high temperatures. In addition to its durability and resistance to corrosion in desert environments, It is also widely used in Türkiye to enhance the earthquake resistance of buildings
Latin American countries: Latin American countries use, Including Brazil and Mexico, Light Gauge Steel is used in residential, commercial and industrial projects due to its versatility and cost-effectiveness
South Africa: Light Gauge Steel is used in South Africa in many construction projects, Including residential, commercial and industrial buildings. These are just a few examples of countries where Light Gauge Steel is commonly used
Price of Light Gauge Steel :
The price of cLight Gauge Steel can vary greatly depending on various factors, Including component type, The specific grade and quality of iron, The thickness of the material, The region or country you are in and market conditions. In addition Prices can fluctuate over time due to factors such as supply and demand, changes in raw material costs, and economic conditions
To get an accurate estimate of the price of Light Gauge Steel in your specific situation, It is recommended to contact Omran Tech Group as they can provide you with current pricing information based on your project requirements
Keep in mind that when calculating Light Gauge Steel costs, You should consider not only the cost of materials but also the expenses related to manufacturing, transportation, and any additional coatings or other treatments that may be required to protect the iron from corrosion.
Symbols :
There are many international codes and standards that provide design guidelines, Manufacture and use of Light Gauge Steel in various applications. These codes ensure that Light Gauge Steel structures are safe, durable and meet industry standards
SASO: It is the national standards of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and is responsible for developing and maintaining national standards, ensuring product quality and promoting conformity assessment practices in the country.
AISI (American Iron and Steel Institute): AISI S100: North American Specification for the Design of Cold-Formed Steel Structural Members. This is the standard widely used for designing cold-formed steel structures in North America
National standards of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: They are the standards responsible for developing and maintaining national standards and ensuring product quality EN (European standards): EN 1993-1-3: Eurocode 3 – Design of steel structures. Part 1-3: General Rules – Supplementary rules for cold-formed thin gauge members and panels. This is the European standard for the design of steel structures, Including Light Gauge Steel elements.
AS/NZS (Australia/New Zealand standards): AS/NZS 4600: Light Gauge Steel structures. This standard provides guidelines for the design and construction of Light Gauge Steel structures in Australia and New Zealand.
CAN/CSA (Canadian Standards Association): CSA S136: Light Gauge Steel structural members. This is the Canadian standard for the design and construction of Light Gauge Steel structural members.
GB (Chinese national standards): GB 50018: Technical code for steel structure for lightweight buildings using Light Gauge thin-walled steel. This standard provides guidelines for the design and construction of lightweight buildings using Light Gauge Steel in China.
IS (Indian Standards): IS 801: Code of practice for the use of Light Gauge Steel structures in the construction of public buildings. This Indian Standard provides guidelines for the use of Light Gauge Steel structural members.
JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards): JIS G 3198: Light Gauge Steel sections for general structural use. This standard covers the design and manufacture of Light Gauge Steel sections in Japan. It is important to note that certain regions and countries may have their own national codes and standards that apply to the design and construction of Light Gauge Steel. When working on cold draft iron, It is essential to adhere to the relevant laws and standards that apply in your area to ensure safety and compliance. Always consult local authorities, engineers and professionals familiar with the applicable codes for your project.
the reviewer :
American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI)
Cold Formed Steel Engineers Institute (CFSEI)
American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC)
