Designing slab on metal deck

[faromike]

Hey all,
How's it going? My first post.

I'm designing a mezzanine structure with a slab on metal deck. I'm planning on using a non composite deck, 1.5 inch. I'm trying to reduce the DL as much as possible and am thinking I can get away with a lower thickness slab if I go with a composite deck. Is there any advantage to using composite decking as opposed to non composite besides longer spans? I'm assuming the composite decking is more expensive?

Thanks

 

[ukbridge]

I used this stuff for a previous project. Lots of advantages chiefly:

1) Typically excellent manufacturer support - the software is often very good/intuitive, and typical details are available in product literature.
2) The tin itself provides a permanent platform to work on, and does not require temporary formwork etc.

I'm not sure about cost, but I think the first two advantages really sold it for my senior engineer. Check out the SCI guide P300 composite decking for a good practical reference on the subject.

 

[jike]

What is the mezzanine structure for? Personnel? Offices? Equipment? Storage? Are there any wheel loads on it?

I assume you are considering 1 5" composite deck versus 9/16" form deck.

Call a deck broker/supplier for prices.

 

[JAE]

Watch out for requirements for fire protection. Some UL classifications require certain minimum concrete thicknesses.
For thinner conc. decks you can always spray fireproofing on the steel but that may not be the most economical.


Check out Eng-Tips Forum's Policies here:
faq731-376

 

[ACE58]

Just a word of warning, whether you use composite deck or standard slabform - check your design for possible floor vibration issues. When you reduce your dead load, you also reduce the vibration "damping" that the dead load provides. If the floor space is for open offices, lobbies, classrooms, etc. the vibration resulting from simple pedestrian traffic may cause discomfort to the people using the space. Trying to reduce the vibration in an already constructed floor can be a complex task & you'll be expected to satisfy everyone's personal comfort level.

 

[KootK]

Composite deck should be more efficient than non-composite. Fire and corrosion are the only reasons that I can think of to go non-composite. As JAE mentioned, fire can be dealt with. If you're in a corrosive environment, however, it might be prudent to treat the deck simply as formwork.

The greatest trick that bond stress ever pulled was convincing the world it didn't exist.

 

[wannabeSE]

Anchoring components is another consideration. Some deck manufactures have tables with 2" topping on an 1.5" deck (3.5" total"). I don't think there is an anchor prequalified for seismic with such thin decks (I don't have much experience with anchors that are non-seismic).