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>
emerging technologies
The Steel Centre conducted this case study on utilizing Generative Design in structural engineering. In this model for end plate steel connections, the user can input various information on bolts, material, shape, and the factored reaction which must be resisted by the connection. Using this information, the Grasshopper script builds the 3D model of the connection and calculates the five limit states.
Generative Design for Warehouses
This video represents the first steps the Steel Centre is taking towards creating a warehouse automation tool. The technology behind this tool allows the user to generate many layout options for the warehouse according to specific requirements set by the designer. In this case, the designer specifies the building footprint (Length and Width), the code then generates the first option. Following that, an evolutionary solver is used to produce hundreds or thousands of options by varying the spacing between the columns to arrive at the most cost effective option. In this example, the optimization is defined by reducing the total weight of the structure, a common method implemented by fabricators in approximating cost. At the end of this example, all the options are presented along with data describing each option, allowing the designer to make a judgment call on which option to proceed with as an option.
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.