Design and Application of Steel Structures in Extreme Climate Conditions

Extreme climates (high temperature, low temperature, strong winds, earthquakes, etc.) pose challenges to building structural design, threatening the stability and safety of steel structures. With the development of materials science and design technology, the adaptability of steel structures to complex climates has increased, and their application value in harsh regions is becoming increasingly significant.

1. Challenges and Design Logic of Extreme Climates

Different extreme climates significantly affect the performance of steel structures: at high temperatures, the load-bearing capacity of steel drops to 50% of that at room temperature at 600℃; in low-temperature environments, -40℃ reduces the impact toughness of Q355 steel; in strong wind areas, structural vibration fatigue needs to be considered, and wind vibration control is a key design consideration for ultra-high-rise buildings; alternating seismic loads threaten the performance of steel structure joints.

The concept of “climate adaptation” can be introduced into the design: heat-resistant steel with thermal insulation coatings should be selected for high temperatures; steel with excellent low-temperature toughness should be used for extreme cold; aerodynamic shape should be optimized in strong wind areas; and joint ductility design should be strengthened in earthquake zones.

2. Innovative Seismic Resistance Practices in Earthquake-Prone Areas

A steel-structured office building in a high-intensity earthquake zone adopted a “double-yield seismic resistance system.” The main frame uses Q690E high-strength steel to ensure rigidity, while energy-dissipating nodes use low-yield-point steel, which yields first to absorb energy during strong earthquakes. The nodes are designed as “replaceable energy-dissipating sections,” eliminating the need for complete reconstruction after an earthquake. During construction, beam-column connections used a combination of “bolts + friction plates,” with sliding friction dissipating seismic energy. Shaking table tests showed the structure remained intact under a rare 8-degree earthquake. This building was awarded the title of “Demonstration Project of the National Technical Guidelines for Seismic Design of Super-High-Rise Buildings.”

3. Technical Adaptation to Multiple Climate Scenarios

Different technical solutions are implemented to address different extreme climates. In high-temperature, dusty environments, Saudi Arabia’s photovoltaic power station supports utilize duplex stainless steel, combining high-temperature resistance with corrosion resistance. In low-temperature regions, such as Arctic research stations, low-temperature steel is paired with an electric heating system to ensure structural toughness and freeze protection. Venues in typhoon-prone areas of Fujian effectively control wind vibration through streamlined design and tuned mass dampers. In terms of construction, preheating welding is required in low temperatures, weather-resistant coatings are selected for high temperatures, and temporary supports are installed in strong wind areas to ensure installation safety.

4. From Passive Defense to Active Adaptation

In the future, steel structures will move towards “intelligent response.” Research and development of shape memory alloy nodes will enable temperature-self-regulating stiffness; self-sensing structures will be developed to monitor stress and provide early warnings via sensors; and BIM and climate simulation will be integrated to optimize weak points. Enterprises will also build an “extreme climate database,” integrating global case data to provide precise solutions for projects and enhance the reliability of steel structures under extreme climate conditions.