If you have a challenge that needs a top team of researchers, lab equipment, and experience, consider submitting a Research Topic Proposal.
recent projects
engineering reports
Steel Centre Engineering Reports (SCERs) provide the latest findings from the Steel Centre research programme in the form of full technical publications.
stability
Residual stresses in welded girders are not well understood; changes in fabrication methods and material properties mean that previous testing from the 1970s does not fully describe the stress distribution of modern girders, which has an effect on stability.
seismic design
There is a lack of experimental research data on the seismic response of multi-tiered concentrically braced frames (MT-CBFs). In this research the seismic response will be investigated experimentally to provide practitioners and design engineers with a better understanding of the behaviour of MT-CBFs.
connections
Embedded plates for concrete-to-steel connections are a source of uncertainty, mistakes, and rework across the construction process chain. The Steel Centre is developing a set of standardized embedded plates validated by physical testing for ease of design, manufacture, and installation.
More about embedded plates>
Test-based Design Methods for Steel Multi-tiered Concentrically Braced Frames
Advanced Hybrid Steel-Timber Structures for Seismic Applications
Development of Enhanced Design Methods for Deep Wide-Flange Columns in Steel Moment Resisting Frames under Earthquake Loading
Application of the Hybrid Simulation Technique to Evaluate the Seismic Response of EBF Links
research
research as education
The Steel Centre has a goal that every student, including undergraduates, is involved in a research project. This hands-on experience coupled with outstanding education quality produces students that have a deeper, more natural understanding of steel construction. Steel Centre students work closely with partners from Alberta's leading companies to identify and solve real problems faced by the steel construction industry.
Steel structures research at the University of Alberta typically involves both large-scale testing in the I.F. Morrison Structural Engineering Laboratory, as well as computer modelling including high-fidelity applications. Steel structures research carried out at the University of Alberta has been influential in the development of design codes and standards world-wide.
structural engineering reports
The Steel Centre produces and publishes a large number of technical reports of use to structural consultants and members of the steel industry.