Comparison of Steel Portal Frames


Types of Steel Portal Frames & Their Differences

Steel portal frames are categorized based on shape, connection type, and structural behavior. Below are the main types and their key differences:


1. By Shape/Configuration

TypeDescriptionAdvantagesDisadvantagesApplications
Single-Span Portal FrameTwo columns + one rafter (A-shape).Simple design, cost-effective.Limited span (≤40m).Small warehouses, workshops.
Multi-Span Portal FrameMultiple spans with internal columns.Economical for large footprints.Internal columns reduce space flexibility.Factories, logistics centers.
Tapered Portal FrameColumns/rafters vary in depth (thinner at ends).Material efficiency, lighter weight.Complex fabrication.Medium-span industrial buildings.
Cantilever Portal FrameExtended rafters beyond columns.Extra covered space without supports.Higher foundation costs.Aircraft hangars, loading bays.
Curved Portal FrameArched rafters for aesthetics/strength.Better snow/wind resistance.Expensive fabrication.Churches, sports halls.

2. By Connection Type

TypeDescriptionAdvantagesDisadvantages
Rigid (Moment-Resisting) FrameWelded/bolted rigid joints.No bracing needed, clear spans.Higher connection costs.
Pinned (Hinged) FramePinned base/connections.Simple foundations, thermal flexibility.Requires bracing for stability.
Semi-Rigid FramePartial moment resistance.Balance of economy/stability.Complex design calculations.

3. By Structural System

TypeDescriptionKey Feature
Clear-Span FrameNo internal columns.Maximum usable space.
Propped FrameIntermediate supports (e.g., mezzanines).Reduces rafter depth.
Gable-End FrameVertical end walls for doors/windows.Improved aesthetics/functionality.

Key Differences Summary

  1. Span Capacity:

    • Single-span: ≤40m

    • Multi-span: Unlimited (with internal columns)

    • Tapered: Optimized for 30–60m

  2. Connection Rigidity:

    • Rigid frames resist bending (no bracing).

    • Pinned frames need bracing but allow thermal expansion.

  3. Cost vs. Performance:

    • Tapered frames save steel but cost more to fabricate.

    • Pinned frames are cheaper but less stable in high winds.

  4. Aesthetics:

    • Curved frames for architectural appeal.

    • Gable-end frames for traditional looks.


Which to Choose?

  • Budget-Conscious? → Single-span pinned frame.

  • Long-Span Needs? → Tapered rigid frame.

  • Aesthetic Priority? → Curved or gable-end frame.


Product Parameters


Types of Steel Portal Frames & Their Differences

Steel portal frames are categorized based on shape, connection type, and structural behavior. Below are the main types and their key differences:


1. By Shape/Configuration

TypeDescriptionAdvantagesDisadvantagesApplications
Single-Span Portal FrameTwo columns + one rafter (A-shape).Simple design, cost-effective.Limited span (≤40m).Small warehouses, workshops.
Multi-Span Portal FrameMultiple spans with internal columns.Economical for large footprints.Internal columns reduce space flexibility.Factories, logistics centers.
Tapered Portal FrameColumns/rafters vary in depth (thinner at ends).Material efficiency, lighter weight.Complex fabrication.Medium-span industrial buildings.
Cantilever Portal FrameExtended rafters beyond columns.Extra covered space without supports.Higher foundation costs.Aircraft hangars, loading bays.
Curved Portal FrameArched rafters for aesthetics/strength.Better snow/wind resistance.Expensive fabrication.Churches, sports halls.

2. By Connection Type

TypeDescriptionAdvantagesDisadvantages
Rigid (Moment-Resisting) FrameWelded/bolted rigid joints.No bracing needed, clear spans.Higher connection costs.
Pinned (Hinged) FramePinned base/connections.Simple foundations, thermal flexibility.Requires bracing for stability.
Semi-Rigid FramePartial moment resistance.Balance of economy/stability.Complex design calculations.

3. By Structural System

TypeDescriptionKey Feature
Clear-Span FrameNo internal columns.Maximum usable space.
Propped FrameIntermediate supports (e.g., mezzanines).Reduces rafter depth.
Gable-End FrameVertical end walls for doors/windows.Improved aesthetics/functionality.

Key Differences Summary

  1. Span Capacity:

    • Single-span: ≤40m

    • Multi-span: Unlimited (with internal columns)

    • Tapered: Optimized for 30–60m

  2. Connection Rigidity:

    • Rigid frames resist bending (no bracing).

    • Pinned frames need bracing but allow thermal expansion.

  3. Cost vs. Performance:

    • Tapered frames save steel but cost more to fabricate.

    • Pinned frames are cheaper but less stable in high winds.

  4. Aesthetics:

    • Curved frames for architectural appeal.

    • Gable-end frames for traditional looks.


Which to Choose?

  • Budget-Conscious? → Single-span pinned frame.

  • Long-Span Needs? → Tapered rigid frame.

  • Aesthetic Priority? → Curved or gable-end frame.


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