Estimate structural steel members, columns, plates, bracing and decking quantities for a rectangular steel platform.
| Component | Quantity | Total Length / Area | Allowance | Estimated Weight |
|---|
The estimator divides the platform into its main material groups: primary beams, secondary joists, columns, bracing, plates and decking.
Joist quantity is based on the platform width and the entered maximum joist spacing. The number of joist spaces is rounded upward so that the calculated spacing does not exceed the specified maximum.
The actual joist spacing is then calculated by dividing the platform width by the number of spaces.
Primary beams form the main supporting framework of the platform. Their quantity and orientation depend on the structural arrangement, so the calculator lets you specify the number of primary beam lines and optional cross beams.
Secondary joists are estimated from the platform width and maximum spacing. Each joist is assumed to span the platform length in the preliminary takeoff.
The calculator estimates columns from the entered number of supports and column length. Column length can include the portion below the platform when the input represents the complete fabricated column.
The tool does not determine the required number, size or arrangement of columns. Actual support locations depend on span, loading, foundation conditions and structural design.
Decking is calculated from the platform area and entered decking mass per square metre.
A decking allowance can be added for cutting, overlaps and installation waste. Openings, penetrations and irregular edges may change the actual quantity.
Base and connection plates are estimated using the entered plate weight and number of plates per column. Bracing is calculated from the number of bracing sets, entered brace length and section weight.
Actual connection plates, gussets, stiffeners and brackets can be more complex than this preliminary allowance. Add additional steel separately when required by the fabrication drawings.
The overall waste percentage is applied after all base material quantities have been calculated.
The cost is a preliminary material-only estimate. It excludes fabrication labor, welding consumables, coating, galvanizing, transportation, erection and other project costs.
What does this calculator estimate?
It estimates primary beams, joists, columns, bracing, plates, decking, waste, total steel weight and preliminary material cost.
How are joists calculated?
The calculator divides the platform width by the maximum joist spacing, rounds the number of spaces upward and adds one joist.
Does the actual joist spacing exceed the input?
No. The calculated equal spacing is equal to or smaller than the entered maximum spacing.
Can I estimate steel decking?
Yes. Enter the decking weight per square metre or pounds per square foot.
Are connection plates included?
Yes, using the entered plate weight and number of plates per column. Additional gussets or special plates should be added separately.
Does the calculator determine beam sizes?
No. You must enter the section mass for the selected beam. Structural sizing requires a separate engineering calculation.
Can it estimate a platform with multiple support columns?
Yes. Enter the number of columns and their length and section weight.
Is this an exact bill of materials?
No. It is a preliminary estimator. Final quantities should be checked against structural and fabrication drawings.