Metal Decking & Composite Construction
Metal decking types, attachment methods, shear studs, composite construction, and post-tensioning.
- Identify metal decking types and proper attachment methods
- Explain the role of shear studs in composite construction
- Describe post-tensioning principles and tendon protection
- Recognize ornamental iron and miscellaneous metal applications
Lección 1
Metal Decking Types & Attachment
Types of Metal Decking
Metal decking is corrugated steel sheeting used as a form for concrete floor slabs and as a structural element in composite construction. The three main types are:
- Composite floor deck - has embossments (dimples) on the ribs that bond mechanically with concrete. Most common type for building floors
- Form deck - smooth profile, acts only as a form for concrete placement. No composite action
- Roof deck - narrow rib profile for insulation support. Not designed for concrete fill
Composite Floor Deck
Ribs: Embossed for concrete bond
Gauge: 16-22 gauge typical
Use: Concrete floor slabs
Action: Structural composite with concrete
Form Deck
Ribs: Smooth, no embossments
Gauge: 22-28 gauge typical
Use: Concrete form only
Action: Non-composite, removed or left in place
Roof Deck
Ribs: Narrow profile
Gauge: 18-22 gauge typical
Use: Insulation and roofing support
Action: Structural diaphragm
Deck Attachment Methods
Metal decking is fastened to supporting steel beams using:
- Puddle welds (burn-through welds) - arc weld through the deck sheet into the beam flange. Most common method
- Self-drilling screws - TEK screws driven through deck into beam flange
- Powder-actuated fasteners - for lighter gauge applications
- Side-lap fasteners - screws or crimps connecting adjacent deck sheets at their overlapping edges
Exam Tip - Puddle Welds
A puddle weld is the most common deck attachment method. The welder burns through the thin deck sheet to fuse it to the beam flange below. The weld appears as a circular puddle on the deck surface.
Composite floor deck has embossments for concrete bond and is the most common type. Puddle welds are the primary attachment method - arc welding through the deck into the beam flange.