For Contractors
For Contractors
Maximize Construction Economy and Value
Structural steel moment frames are advantageous due to their rapid construction schedule and architectural versatility. A key factor with steel moment frames is selecting a beam-column connection that can be designed, fabricated, and erected economically as the moment connections are a key driver during frame fabrication and construction. Using field-welded connections simplifies design but takes more time and resources to erect and inspect. Field-bolted moment connections require more rigorous design but save time and money during fabrication and erection. DuraFuse Frames field-bolted connections make this decision simple by reducing the frame construction cost by lowering tonnage, simplifying fabrication and shortening the erection schedule. DuraFuse Frames field-bolted moment connections are uniquely designed to accomplish all these goals as they were developed by engineers collaborating with steel fabricators and erectors.
Our complimentary design assist adds a collaborator to your team with expertise in moment frame design and construction. Our team will assist with preliminary design studies to identify the best solution for your project and provide information that can be used to accurately estimate frame construction costs. As the project progresses our team will continue to optimize the design finding the most cost-effective solution given the project demands.
DuraFuse connections are designed to be both fabricator- and erector-friendly and do not require special certification. The connections are fully field-bolted, thereby shortening the erection schedule. Erecting a DuraFuse connection does not require installing pieces in the shop that are then removed in the field or “threading the needle” to fit the beams to the columns. The connection detailing minimizes conflicts with other building components (architectural, mechanical, plumbing, …). In high seismic regions lateral beam braces are eliminated and the “Protected Zone” is minimized reducing field fixes and RFIs.
No matter the project location or size, we can assist with designing the most economical solution for your project. At DuraFuse, we strive to be a trusted partner from early design all the way through completion of construction and beyond
Tip: The Resources section of the website has a downloadable DuraFuse family for REVIT to make modeling easy.
Earthquake Resilience + Sustainability + Economy
One of the most innovative and valuable aspects to DuraFuse Frames is the repairability. In regions of high seismicity building codes address life-safety, but not post-earthquake functionality. Buildings that absorb damage in the structural system will often require significant time and resources for post-event repairs which may lead to building demolition. With DuraFuse Frames, structural damage is confined to a replaceable fuse plate reducing post-earthquake repair time and cost by at least 60%. Focusing the damage in a replaceable component makes buildings both sustainable and resilient as demolition and re-build is essentially eliminated. DuraFuse Frames combines repairability and economy, meaning that you don’t have to settle. The building will have the lowest frame construction cost and can be rapidly reoccupied after a major earthquake.
