One of the most common questions we receive at Hassanoglu Steel Structures is:
“What is the largest span that can be built in a steel structure without any interior columns?”
This question often comes from clients developing large-scale projects such as ship maintenance facilities, aircraft hangars, or wide industrial warehouses, where open and unobstructed spaces are essential for operations.
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Key Factors That Determine the Maximum Span
There is no single fixed number that defines the maximum possible span.
It depends on several engineering and design factors, including:
- The Structural System Used
The achievable span varies based on whether the structure uses a Rigid Frame, a Truss System, or a Space Frame configuration. - Steel Section Type and Fabrication Method
The size, thickness, and reinforcement of steel members, along with the connection methods, play a critical role in determining how wide the structure can go without deformation or excessive deflection. - Roof Loads and External Forces
The total roof load, wind and snow loads, and additional mechanical elements such as overhead cranes or equipment all influence the design span.
Hassanoglu’s Experience in Large-Span Projects
At Hassanoglu Steel Structures, we have successfully executed projects with clear spans of up to 60 meters without any internal columns.
For even larger spans, we design custom-engineered Space Frame or Truss Systems, specifically tailored to each project’s load and usage requirements.
Each project is carefully analyzed by our engineering team to ensure the perfect balance between structural strength, material efficiency, and cost optimization.
Balancing Strength and Cost
It’s important to understand that every additional meter in span significantly increases the weight, section thickness, and overall cost of the structure.
That’s why achieving an optimal design requires experience and precise calculations to reach the best balance between performance and economy — something Hassanoglu is well known for.