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2120 Chapter 9 Discussion


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    Nick Palmisano
    Keymaster
    Nick Palmisano

    Purpose

    This activity is designed to improve and develop a better understanding of the Module’s topics. The activity incorporates both critical thinking and the application for the Fire Officer.

    Discussion Post Instructions:

    Review Chapter 9 in your textbook.
    Review Module 9’s Learning Resources unit and slides.
    Post your response to the Discussion Forum.

    Discussion

    What are some advantages and disadvantages of using steel as a construction material?

    Discussion Post Requirements

    Your initial post must be a minimum of 100 words.

    You must respond to at least two of your classmates. Each response must be a minimum of 50 words.

    All discussion postings must be typed directly into the discussion forum.

    #15703

    jonathan shadoin
    Participant
    jonathan shadoin

    Steel is a widely used construction material due to its strength, durability, and versatility. one major advantage is its high strength to weight ratio, allowing for lighter yet stronger structures. It is also resistant to pests, fire, and rot, making it more durable than wood. Additionally, steel is recyclable, promoting sustainability. However, there are disadvantages, such as susceptibility to corrosion, requiring protective coatings or treatments. Steel also has poor thermal insulation, leading to energy efficiency concerns. Its high cost and the need for specialized labor in fabrication and welding can increase overall construction expenses. Despite these drawbacks, steel remains a preferred choice for many structural applications.

    #20243

    KYLE FLEMING
    Participant
    KYLE FLEMING

    Steel offers several advantages in construction: it’s strong, lightweight relative to its strength, and allows for rapid, flexible design and assembly. It performs well under tension and compression and is ideal for large-span structures. However, in fire service contexts, steel has critical disadvantages.

    While noncombustible, it loses strength rapidly when exposed to high heat, potentially failing at temperatures as low as 1,100°F. Steel also expands when heated, which can cause connections to deform or structural elements to push outward, leading to collapse. Additionally, unprotected steel lacks inherent fire resistance and requires insulation or fireproof coatings to meet safety codes. Firefighters must recognize that steel-framed buildings can appear stable yet collapse without warning under fire conditions.

    #20328

    KYLE FLEMING
    Participant
    KYLE FLEMING

    Your knowledge in this subject is superior, DE Ed Shadoin. I agree. Steel is a strong, durable, and versatile material with an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, making it ideal for efficient, long-span structures. Its resistance to pests, fire, and rot adds to its durability, and its recyclability supports sustainable building practices. However, steel can corrode without proper protection and offers poor thermal insulation, which may impact energy efficiency. It also tends to be more expensive and requires skilled labor for welding and assembly. Despite these challenges, its structural benefits make it a preferred material in many modern construction projects.

    #20329
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