'C' section girt

End section of Portal Frame

Components of a Portal Frame

NORTHERN METROPOLITAN INSTITUTE OF TAFE - HEIDELBERG CAMPUS -

This photo shows the exterior of the TAFE building. Structural steel beams are used to support the building, but are also used as a design feature.

The building is used for teaching mechanical trades. It houses workshops with large equipment and machinery, as well as classrooms and offices.

Exposing the steel beams and the metal mesh walkways adds a utilitarian and functional feel to the building, as well as providing what I imagine is a relatively simple and efficient structural system.

Interior view of steel beams

These photos show the other side of the steel beams, returning inside the building. The metal mesh of the walkway is also carried through from the exterior of the building. It creates a walkway for the upper floor of the building.

Structural Detail

This photo shows the joining detail of the vertical and horizontal members.