Columns in Plan 1

[Alireza1945]

is it any special guide or point for positioning the columns in a plan ?
i mean , when i get the plan from an architect , after it , i have to place the columns in the very first place ,
any guide for doing it the best way ?
is there any best way or it is based on engineering experiences ?!

 

[Guastavino]

Try to keep a common spacing that is repetitive and makes sense with the building. If there is a way to establish a grid, do it. Even if it means going back and forth with the architect some. If you educate the architect and more importantly the owner on the cost savings from repetition and symmetry you have a better chance of imposing your will in regards to columns. Albeit, I've worked with few architects that heed my advice 100% of the time.

Also, think big picture, don't get bogged down in the details early on. Use some tracing paper or bluebeam or something where you can sketch things out. I try to establish non-negotiable working points early on. Say the column lines are 12" off the exterior face of the building everywhere and then work my grid to that. The key is using repetition and think like a fabricator.

One other tip in working with architects. If you want something really badly, take two or three other things to them that would be nice but you can live without. Present them all, and if you don't get them all, then fight for the one thing that you do want. Then, call it a win-win compromise and move on. Shows you gave a little (and in reality you likely did) too.

 

[KootK]

I have an old AISC article where the economics of single story steel buildings is studied. They come to the conclusion that economical interior bays have tributary areas between 750 and 1250 sf with shallow foundations coming in at the lower end and deep foundations at the higher end. I often gun for about 30' bays which jives well with wall that. The article also suggests that girder spans be about 0.8 x joist spans if possible.

In truth, it is mostly about experience as you suggested at the top. I thought that this little tidbit of advice might be better than nothing though.

I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.