Steel columns play a crucial role in any building structure, as they provide essential vertical support and bear heavy loads. To ensure safety, durability, and structural integrity, these columns must be designed and constructed according to specific guidelines. In India, the Indian Standards (IS Code) lays down comprehensive rules for steel column construction. This blog will discuss what these standards are, why they are important, and how they affect steel construction projects.
Importance of IS Code in Steel Column Construction
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) provides guidelines to maintain uniformity, quality, and safety in construction. For steel columns, the primary IS codes include:
- IS 800:2007 – General Construction in Steel – Code of Practice
- IS 808:1989 – Dimensions for Hot Rolled Steel Beam, Column, Channel, and Angle Sections
- IS 875 (Part 1 to 5):1987 – Code for Design Loads (Dead Loads, Live Loads, Wind Loads, etc.)
- IS 456:2000 – For concrete in composite columns
- IS 2062:2011 – Specifications for steel used in fabrication
Following these standards ensures structural safety, compliance with legal regulations, and long-term durability.
Types of Steel Columns Used in Construction
Before we move to the IS code guidelines, it’s important to understand the types of steel columns commonly used:
- I-Section Columns – Suitable for heavy load-bearing applications.
- Box or Hollow Columns – Used for aesthetic appeal and lighter structures.
- Built-Up Columns – Formed by welding or bolting plates together for large loads.
- Composite Columns – Made using steel and concrete for enhanced strength.
Steel Column Design Standards as per IS Code
The design of steel columns involves checking for axial loads, bending moments, buckling, and slenderness ratio. The IS 800:2007 is the primary reference for steel structure design in India.
Key Design Criteria According to IS 800:2007
1. Slenderness Ratio
- For compression members, the slenderness ratio (λ) must not exceed:
- 180 for compression members not carrying loads other than their own weight
- 250 for tension members acting as ties
- This ensures columns do not buckle under load.
2. Effective Length of Columns
The effective length depends on the end conditions of the column:
- Both ends fixed → 0.65 × actual length
- One end fixed, other hinged → 0.80 × actual length
- Both ends hinged → actual length
- One end fixed, other free → 2.0 × actual length
3. Axial Stress and Buckling
- Axial compressive stress is calculated as per clause 7.1.2 of IS 800:2007.
- Buckling resistance is determined based on column slenderness and effective length.
4. Column Base Design
- Columns must be anchored to the foundation using base plates and anchor bolts as per IS 800 and IS 456 for stability.
Load Considerations as per IS 875
Steel columns must be designed to handle dead loads, live loads, wind loads, and seismic loads.
- Dead Load (IS 875 Part 1) – Weight of structural components
- Live Load (IS 875 Part 2) – Occupancy loads
- Wind Load (IS 875 Part 3) – Based on building height and location
- Seismic Load (IS 1893) – For earthquake-prone regions
Material Standards as per IS 2062
The steel used for columns must comply with IS 2062, which specifies mild steel and high-strength structural steel grades such as E250, E300, and E350. These grades ensure:
- High yield strength
- Good weldability
- Corrosion resistance (when combined with protective coatings)
Fabrication and Erection Guidelines
- Welding and bolting must follow IS 816 and IS 4000 for proper joint design.
- Columns should be erected vertically, with alignment tolerance as per IS 7215.
- Protective coatings like galvanization or painting are required for corrosion resistance.
Why IS Codes Are Essential for Safety
Failure to comply with IS codes can lead to:
- Structural instability
- Increased risk during earthquakes or strong winds
- Higher maintenance costs
Following the IS codes ensures the structure withstands load variations, environmental factors, and provides long service life.
Ferrite Structural Steel – Your Trusted Partner for Steel Columns
At Ferrite Structural Steels Pvt. Ltd., we supply premium-quality structural steel sections that comply with all relevant IS codes. Our products include:
- Mild Steel Columns
- ISMB and ISHB Sections
- Custom Fabricated Built-Up Columns
Why choose Ferrite?
- IS-certified steel sections for guaranteed safety
- Wide range of column sizes for all applications
- Nationwide delivery and competitive pricing
If you’re looking for a reliable steel supplier in India, Ferrite Structural Steel is your best choice.
Final Thoughts
Steel columns are the backbone of any structure, and their design and construction as per IS codes ensure strength, stability, and durability. Always source your materials from a trusted supplier like Ferrite Structural Steels Pvt. Ltd. to guarantee compliance and quality.
