Light Gauge Steel Framing (LGSF) is a construction technology where cold-formed steel is used as a construction material for manufacturing entire buildings or parts of buildings including roof systems and panels, floor systems and decks, and load-bearing as well as non-load-bearing walls, wall claddings and other wall systems. In 2023, the LGSF market was valued at USD 27.01 billion, with projected growth from USD 28.18 billion in 2024 to USD 37.83 billion by the end of 2032*.
Production of Light Gauge Steel Framing
There are a few key steps involved in the manufacture of light gauge steel frames that are used in the construction process. After a meticulous process of designing and engineering the components using state-of-the-art technology, to ensure efficiency and structural integrity of the components, the steel coils go through cold-forming machines that shape them according to the construction requirements. This cold-formed steel is then cut based on accurate measurements to meet the specifications of the project, after which it undergoes stringent quality checks before being transported to the construction site for the final assembling process.
production and manufacture of steel frames
Benefits Of Light Gauge Steel Frames
The unprecedented growth in the construction sector demands that construction timelines be shortened considerably, as well as the dependence on labour and favourable weather conditions to carry out the construction activities. It is here that light gauge steel frames prove their advantage. Given below are the main reasons why you should choose LGSF construction for your building needs.
Lightweight High Strength Material
Light gauge steel frames used in prefab steel construction are designed and manufactured at an offsite factory location and then transported to the construction site. These high tensile steel sheets are increasingly lightweight, making it much easier and safer to move the components during the manufacturing process in the factory as well as during transportation from the factory location to the construction site and while assembling the final building using the steel components.
Increased Durability
LGSF construction utlizes thermal bridging which keeps the light gauge steel frames from attracting condensation and protects the wall linings and studs, particularly during the winter months, unlike construction that uses wood. This minimizes the chance of rotting, warping, or cracking, and does not attract pests or termites. This makes the building more durable for a longer period of time, even with minimal maintenance.
Faster Construction
Prefab construction using light gauge steel frames ensures that all the steel components are dimensionally accurate, enabling fast assembling of the final building with minimal rework. Since work on the prefab components is carried out at an offsite factory location simultaneously with the work at the construction site, time taken for construction is further reduced.
Eco-friendly construction material
Construction with light gauge steel frames in an offsite location reduces wastage at the construction site, which in turn results in less waste being taken to the landfill. The construction is quick and the components do not require a large area for storage when compared to traditional forms of construction. There is minimal disruption to the construction site and less disturbance to the neighbourhood during the process of construction. Steel can be reused and recycled multiple times without compromising on quality or functionality, which makes it a very sustainable construction alternative.
Applications Of Light Gauge Steel Frames In Commercial Buildings
Light gauge steel frames can be tailored to fit various building configurations, making them very versatile and appropriate even for complex structures. Commercial buildings that can benefit from LGSF construction include –
- Multi-level car parking facilities
- Multi-storied apartment complexes
- Retail stores and shopping complexes
- Educational facilities like schools and colleges
- Healthcare facilities including hospitals
- Sports arenas and stadiums
- Fitness centres and gymnasiums
TUFFRAMES from Edge Neoteric
TUFFRAME, the exceptionally strong and durable light gauge steel frames manufactured by Edge Neoteric, plays a pivotal role in enabling our innovative and advanced QWIKNEXT technology for a quicker, stronger and easier construction process. TUFFRAMES are made of the finest quality steel using sophisticated technology and can be successfully reused and recycled without compromising on its quality or strength, making it a perfect component for eco-friendly construction.