OREANDA-NEWS. August 10, 2011. Sumitomo Metal Industries, Ltd. (“Sumitomo Metals”) has acquired technical-evaluation certification for its newly-developed “SM-HSJ (H-column Simple Joint) construction method,” which uses an improved method of connecting H-beams and columns for steel frame buildings. Specifically, this method has acquired the technical-evaluation certification of building technologies (GBRC Technical Evaluation No. 10-11) from the General Building Research Corporation of Japan*1. The method is appropriate primarily for low- and middle-rise buildings such as plants, warehouses, and shopping centers. It can simplify welding work to connect H-beams and columns, and is expected to help reduce construction costs.

The SM-HSJ method is an expanded version of the “SRC column rationalized structure by use of the SM-TWH” (certificate No. ST0044 for the technical evaluation performed by the Building Center of Japan*1 in 2001) for steel-construction buildings. The SM-TWH-based method has been well received by customers and has been adopted for steel-reinforced concrete columns.

1. Present technology and issues

Conventional buildings having H-beams and columns require reinforcement when a column and a beam are connected. The work of welding reinforced parts is complicated and manually performed on site. As a result, it is one of the factors that tend to raise costs.

2. Details of the SM-HSJ method

The SM-HSJ method developed by Sumitomo Metals facilitates welding of a column and a beam when both are made of H-shaped steel. This method uses Sumitomo Metals’ original H-shaped steel*2 columns which have a thickened web (see illustration). Examination of the strength of welded parts has shown that the method simplifies the reinforcement of the connection*3.

3. Future plans

Sumitomo Metals plans to suggest use of the SM-HSJ method to customers such as general construction companies, and design offices, for construction of plants, warehouses, and stores that use H-beams.

Notes

*1 Both the General Building Research Corporation of Japan and the Building Center of Japan are “designated performance evaluation institutions” authorized by the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, and Transportation. They evaluate and certify performance of newly-developed construction technology and materials.

*2 Sumitomo Metals’ original sizes