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UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MALAYSIA

DECLARATION OF THESIS / UNDERGRADUATE PROJECT PAPER AND COPYRIGHT

Authors full name : CHRISTIE LANJING ANAK ENTIKA

Date of birth : 8 JUNE 1986

Title : THE USE OF STEEL STRUCTURE IN THE INDUSTRIALIZED BUILDING

SYSTEM

Academic Session : 2008/2009

I declare that thus thesis is classified as:

CONFIDENTAL (Contains confidential information under the Official Secret

Act 1972)*

RESTRICTED (Contains restricted information as specified by the

organization where research was done)*

OPEN ACCESS I agree that my thesis to be published as online open

access (full text)

I acknowledged that University of Technology Malaysia reserves the right as follows:

1. The thesis is the property of University of Technology Malaysia.

2. The Library of University of Technology Malaysia has the right to make copies for the purpose
of research only.
3. The Library has the right to make copies of the thesis for academic exchange.

Certified by:

SIGNATURE SIGNATURE OF SUPERVISOR

860608-52-5906 ASSOCIATE PROFESOR DR.

(NEW IC NO. /PASSPORT) MOHAMAD IBRAHIM BIN MOHAMAD
NAME OF SUPERVISOR
Date: 6 MAY 2009 Date : 6 MAY 2009

NOTES : *If the thesis is CONFIDENTIAL or RESTRICTED, please attach with the letter
from organisation with period and reasons for confidentiality or restriction.
 I hereby declare that i have read this project report and in
my opinion this project report is sufficient in term of scope and
quality for the award of the degree of Bachelor of
Civil Engineering.

Signature :
Name of Supervisor : ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR DR. MOHAMAD
IBRAHIM BIN MOHAMAD
Date : 6 MAY 2009
THE USE OF STEEL STRUCTURE IN THE INDUSTRIALIZED BUILDING
SYSTEM

CHRISTIE LANJING ANAK ENTIKA

A report submitted in partial fulfillment of the

requirements for the award of the degree of
Bachelor of Civil Engineering

Faculty of Civil Engineering

Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

2009
 ii

I declare that this thesis entitled The Use of Steel Structure in The Industrialized
Building System is the result of my own research expect as cited in the refrences. The
thesis has not been accepted for any degree and is not currently candidate of any other
degree.

Signature :
Name : CHRISTIE LANJING ANAK ENTIKA
Date : 6 MAY 2009
 iii

To
My God,
Mum and Dad,
My sister and my two brothers
My faithful friends and course mates
And
My beloved church members
 iv

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I wish to express my sincere appreciation to my research supervisor

Associate Professor Dr. Mohamad Ibrahim, who has guide me through the entire
process of this research. His guidance and constructive leading has thought me well
and has always been a good experience to be able to undergo my final project under
his supervision.

I am overwhelm with gratitude to those who have shown their full

support through the whole process of completing my final project especially my
parents who always been motivating me with their words of encouragement, my
sister and my brothers for the ideas that they have contributed to my final project
and to my beloved church members for all their support through prayers.

I am also very thankful to all of the support given by all of the companies
who has willingly given their best corporation to my final project. Their corporation
has made my final project a successful.

Finally, I wish to thank all parties who have given their cooperation and
support directly or indirectly to ensure a successful completion of this final project.
 v

ABSTRACT

Industrialized building system (IBS) is a concept that integrates

manufacturing process with the construction practice. The Construction Industry
Development Board (CIDB) believes that the adoption of industrialized building
system (IBS) is able to simplify and accelerate the construction process, which will
reduce rectification works and the total construction cost. Steel structure is one of
the important elements in the industrialized building system (IBS) application.
However, despite many advantages of using steel structure, it has not been very
popular in building construction in Malaysia. It was reported that the construction
using steel structure is not cost effective and it also associated with other problems.
This study is aim to identify the problems related to steel structure application with
regard to industrialized building system (IBS) promotion by the Construction
Industry Development Board (CIDB). The objectives of this study are to identify the
extend of steel structure usage in Malaysia, problems related to steel structure
application and strategy to promote steel application in the Industrialized building
system (IBS). The methodology adopted for this study include literature review,
questionnaire survey which is conducted in two areas of study, and interviews with
respondents that have direct involvement in the industrialized building system (IBS)
construction. The findings from this study confirmed that cost factor still considered
as one of the major factors impedes popularity of steel structure usage in Malaysia.
The strategy identified showed that emphasis should be given more to equip the
local construction industry players with knowledge and experience of steel
construction so that usage steel structure can be optimized. Hopefully, this study will
help to see the problems related to see steel structure application in the
implementation of the industrialized building system (IBS) in Malaysia.
 vi

ABSTRAK

Sistem bangunan berindustri (IBS) adalah sistem pembinaan yang menintegrasikan

proses perindustrian ke dalam pembinaan. CIDB percaya bahawa perlaksanaan sistem
bangunan berindustri (IBS) akan memudahkan dan mempercepatkan proses pembinaan
yang seterusnya mengurangkan kerja pembaik pulih dan mengurangkan kos keseluruhan
pembinaan. Walau bagaimanapun,pengunaan struktur keluli di dalam perlaksanaan sistem
bangunan berindustri (IBS) berkemungkinan tidak akan memberikan kelebihan yang
semedikian rupa. Adalah didapati bahawa pengunaan struktur keluli adalah tidak kos efektif
dan ia juga turut dikaitkan dengan pelbagai masalah lain. Kajian ini adalah bertujuan untuk
mengenal pasti masalah yang berkaitan dengan pengunaan struktur keluli dengan merujuk
kepada promosi sistem bangunan berindustri (IBS) oleh CIDB. Objektif kajian ini adalah
untuk mengenal pasti tahap pengunaan struktur keluli di Malaysia, masalah berkaitan
dengan pengunaan struktur keluli dan strategi untuk mengalakan pengunaan struktur keluli
di dalam perlaksanaan sistem bangunan berindustri (IBS). Metodologi yang dignakan dalam
kajian ini termasuklah kajian literatur, kaedah tinjauan borang soal-selidik dan temubual
dengan pihak yang terlibat secara lansung di dala, sistem pembinaan sistem bangunan
berindustri. Daripada kajian ini mendapati bahawa kos adalah salah satu factor utama yang
menghalang populariti pengunaan struktur keluli di Malaysia . Strategi yang dikenalpasti
menunjukkan bahawa keutamaan harus diberikan kepada usaha memepersiapkan pihak
industri tempatan dengan pengetahuan dan pengalaman berkenaan dengan pembinaan
struktur keluli supaya pengunaan keluli berada pada tahap optimum.
 vii

TABLE OF CONTENT

CHAPTER TITLE PAGE

TITLE PAGE i
DECLARATION ii
DEDICATION iii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT iv
ABSTRACT v
ABSTRAK vi
TABLE OF CONTENT vii
LIST OF TABLES xi
LIST OF FIGURES xii
LIST OF APPENDICES xiii

1 INTRODUCTION 1
1.1 Background 1
1.2 Problem of statement 3
1.3 Significant of study 3
1.4 Aim and objective 4
1.5 Scope and limitation of study 4
1.6 Brief research methodology 5
 viii

2 STEEL STRUCTURE IN CONSTRUCTION 6

2.1 Introduction 6
2.2 Steel structure application 6
2.2.1 Multiple bay single storey buildings 7
2.2.2 Multi-storey buildings 7
2.2.3 Tall structures 8
2.2.4 Composite structure 9
2.2.5 Bridges 9
2.3 Local IBS projects using steel structure 9
2.3.1 Kuala Lumpur convention centre (KLCC) 10
2.3.2 Serdang hospital 10
2.3.3 Petronas Twin Tower 11
2.4 Construction of steel structure 12
2.4.1 Delivery system 12
2.4.2 Fabrication 13
2.4.3 Erection 14
2.4.4 Labor skill in construction 14
2.5 Benefits of steel structure application 15
2.5.1 Long term strength and value 15
2.5.2 Changes in building use and structure 16
2.5.3 Maximum floor space 16
2.5.4 Reduction of foundation cost 17
2.5.5 Fast and simple construction 17
2.5.6 Fracture toughness 18
2.5.7 Minimum wastage 18
2.6 Problems and issue of the application of steel structure 19
2.6.1 Corrosion 19
2.6.2 Material fatigue 20
2.6.3 Brittle fracture 20
2.6.4 Effect of high temperature 21
2.6.5 Lack of reserve strength 21
2.6.6 Lack of standardization 21
2.6.7 Susceptibility to buckling 22
2.6.8 Fireproofing 22
 ix

2.6.9 Price escalation and shortfall supply 23

2.7 CIDB strategy of promoting the use of steel structure 23
in the Industrialized Building System
2.7.1 Man power 24
2.7.2 Materials and machineries 24
2.7.3 Management 24

3 METHODOLOGY 25
3.1 Introduction 25
3.2 Secondary data 26
3.3 Primary data 26
3.3.1 Questionnaire 27
3.3.2 Interviews 28
3.4 Data analysis 29

4 RESULT AND ANAYSIS 30

4.1 Introduction 30
4.2 Interview 31
4.2.1 Extend of steel structure usage 32
4.2.2 Benefits and problems of steel 34
structure application
4.2.3 Strategy to promote steel application in IBS 36
4.3 Quantity of questionnaire survey form 38
4.3.1 Respondents 38
4.3.2 Extend of steel structure usage 39
4.3.2.1 The level of steel structure usage 40
in each project
4.3.2.2 The types of construction project 41
that frequently utilize the application
of steel structure.
4.3.2.3 Factors that influence the 43
selection of steel structure for construction
4.3.2.4 Utilization of steel application in 45
the Industrialized Building System (IBS)
 x

4.3.3 The problems and benefits related to 46

steel structure application
4.3.4.1 The problems related to steel 47
structure application
4.3.4.2 The benefits related to steel 48
structure application
4.3.4.3 Assessment of benefits and problems 50
of steel structure application
4.3. 4 Strategy to promote steel application 52
in the Industrialized Building System (IBS)

5 DISCUSSION 55
5.1 Introduction 55
5.2 Overview of the findings 55
5.2.1 The extend of steel structure usage 56
5.2.2 The benefits and problems related to steel 56
structure application
5.2.3 Awareness of the local construction 58
industry players
5.3 Limitation of study 59

6 CONCLUSION 60
6.1 Introduction 60
6.2 Conclusion 61
6.2.1 Objective 1: To identify the extend of steel 61
structure usage in Malaysia
6.2.2 Objective 2- To identify the problem related 62
in the application of steel structure
6.2.3 Objective 3- To identify the strategy 64
to promote steel application in IBS

REFERNCE 66
APPENDIX 69
 xi

LIST OF TABLES

TABLE NO. TITLE PAGE

3.1 Rating system used in the ranking questions 27

4.1 Opinions regarding steel structure usage 32
4.2 Benefits, problems and respondents stand 35
regarding promoting steel structure in IBS
4.3 Strategy to promote steel application in IBS 37
4.4 The types of construction which frequently 42
utilize steel structure application in Johor
4.5 The types of construction which frequently 42
utilize steel structure application in Kuala Lumpur
4.6 Factors that influence the selection of steel 43
structure for construction in Johor
4.7 Factors that influence the selection of steel 44
structure for construction in Kuala Lumpur
4.8 The problems related to steel structure application in Johor 47
4.9 The problems related to steel structure application 48
in Kuala Lumpur
4.10 The benefit related to steel structure application in Johor 49
4.11 The benefits related to steel structure application 50
in Kuala Lumpur
4.12 Strategy to promote steel application in the 53
industrialized building system in Johor
4.13 Strategy to promote steel application in the 54
industrialized building system in Kuala Lumpur
 xii

LIST OF FIGURES

FIGURE NO. TITLE PAGE

1.1 The flow of the study 5

2.1 KLCC during construction 10
2.2 Serdang hospital 11
2.3 Petronas Twin Tower 11
2.4 Resource flow in the delivery system 13
4.1 Respondents from Johor 38
4.2 Respondents from Kuala Lumpur 39
4.3 Level of steel structure usage in each project in 40
Johor
4.4 Level of steel structure usage in each project in 41
Kuala Lumpur
4.5 Feedback from respondents in Johor 45
4.6 Feedback from respondents in Kuala Lumpur 46
4.7 Feedback from Johor 51
4.8 Feedback from Kuala Lumpur 51
 xiii

LIST APPENDICES

APPENDIX TITLE PAGE

A Questionnaire survey 69
 1

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Industrialized building system (IBS) is a construction (building) system that

integrates manufacturing process into the construction practice. The system utilizes
the usage of prefabricated building elements which are manufactured offsite and
involve massive prefabricated assembling works on site.

This system is adapted within the construction industry to replace the

conventional construction practice which is labor intensive. The need to industrialize
the construction industry appears due many problems faced and lack of
achievements by Malaysian construction industry. This need has been highlighted
as; There is a general feeling that the vast gains in productivity and quality,
realized in the 20th century in manufacturing industries have not been matched by
similar progress in building construction( Warszawski, 1999).
 2

In Malaysia, the use of IBS has been actively promoted by the construction
industry development board (CIDB) and has been strongly recommended by the
Malaysian government to the local construction industry. The Malaysian
government believes that the usage of IBS is the correct step in achieving the
government aims to stimulate domestic economy activity and enhance economic
growth. This is particularly because construction industry plays a crucial role in the
government effort. Therefore, it is vital for the industry to adapt IBS as a measure to
increase efficiency, quality and productivity (IBS Roadmap 2003-2010).

CIDB believe that through industrialization of construction, there will be

minimum works on site resulting in less site labor, materials and wastage making the
construction site to be cleaner, safer and tidier. CIDB also believe that IBS is able to
simplify and accelerate the construction process, which will reduce rectification
works and the total construction cost (IBS Survey 2003).

However, the implementation of IBS has not found favor from the local
construction industry. A survey conducted by CIDB has shown that the level of
usage of IBS in Malaysia is very low which stands only 15%. The survey also
shows that only 41% of the respondents agreed that IBS is able to reduce total
construction cost even though most of the respondents agreed that IBS offers cleaner
and neater sites, easy installation, labor reduction, fast completion and enhancement
of quality of finished products (IBS survey 2003). This survey has shown that the
implementation of IBS in Malaysia is not cost effective and therefore, it is not
consistent with the CIDB promotion of IBS. This phenomenon is acknowledging
that there are problems with regard to the IBS implementation.
 3

1.2 Problem of statement

Structural steel has unique properties which can be taken advantage of in a

wide array of applications in the construction industry. However, there are various
issues and problems related to steel structure application. The most prominent ones
are the steel price issue and inadequate supply of steel (Star, 2007). In terms of the
structural aspect, the problems which are commonly associated with steel structure
application are corrosion, material fatigue, brittle fracture, low structural integrity in
the ambience of high temperature (Agcs et al, 2005) and lack of strength reserve (
Newman, 2004). In the aspect of manufacturing, the problem that is well associated
with steel structure application is lack of standardization (Newman 2004).

These problems are not only limiting structural steel utilization in the
Industrialized Building System (IBS), but also will limit the extend of usage of the
industrialized building system (IBS) in the local construction industry. Therefore, it
is important to identify these problems so that strategies can be drawn out on how to
optimize the application of steel structure in Industrialized Building System (IBS).

1.3 Significant of study

The benefits of steel structure can be taken advantage of in wide array of

applications in the construction. Therefore identifying the problems of steel structure
application consequently will reveal the weakness of steel structure application in
IBS implementation. These findings will assist to understand the response of the
local construction industry toward steel structure application in IBS and thus will
assist to see what measures should be taken to improve the effectiveness of IBS
implementation in the local construction industry especially with regard to steel
structure applications.
 4

1.4 Aim and objective

The aim of this study is to identify the associated problem related to steel
structure application with regard to industrialized building system (IBS) promotion
by CIDB. The objectives of this study are as follow;

1) To identify the problem related in the application of steel structure.

2) To identify extend of steel structure usage in Malaysia.
3) To explore the strategy to promote steel application in the industrialized
building system as promoted by CIDB.

1.5 Scope and limitation of study

The study is focused on the application of steel structure specifically in

beams and columns only. The data for the study will be collected in Kuala Lumpur
and Johor area only.
 5

1.6 Brief research methodology

Identify
Problem

Determine
objective and
Scope of study

Literature
review

Data collection

Questionnaire Interviews

Data processing

Conclusion

Figure 1.1: The flow of the study

 6

CHAPTER 2

STEEL STRUCTURE IN CONSTRUCTION

2.1 Introduction

In this chapter, the aspects that will be reviewed are the application of steel
structures, the construction of steel structure, benefits and problems and issues
related to steel construction. This chapter will also review CIDB promotion of steel
structure.

2.2 Steel structure application

Steel structures in construction are applied in many ways and it is widely

used for industrial, commercial and residential building. It has been used in various
constructions such as single-storey, low-rise industrial building, power plants, ore
mines, oil and gas offshore platforms and multistory, high rise buildings (Li et al,
2007).
 7

Principally, the applications of steel structure are based on frame system

used. From this perspective, the steel structure applications are made clear and more
systematic.

2.2.1 Multiple bay single storey buildings

Multiple bays normally, are a repetition of a single bay. The repetition may
offer the possibility to reduce the size of some members if continuity is to be
considered in the structural design. The applications of steel structure using multiple
bays is one of the approaches used when overall plan dimension exceed sensible
clear span limitations. This application can be seen in the construction of factories.
Trends in the structural layout of industrial buildings are influenced very much by
changes which to certain extend demands for large span of structure. For both
economic and planning purposes, spacing main frames tended to be increased. The
application of steel structure using multiple bays benefit the construction of factories
by providing easier fixing for services and other attachments( Plank, 1993).

2.2.2 Multi-storey buildings

Multi-storey building encompasses a wide extend of building figure made

possible by the versatility and adaptability of structural steel. The design of multi-
storey steel frames is targeted to provide a range of functional, performance and
economic requirements. Modern commercial office forms the main streams of this
type of construction. The basics elements of multi-storey structure are floor slabs,
beams, columns and bracing. Therefore the design of steel framed buildings for
 8

multi-storey not only encompasses the structure but also the building envelope,
services and finishes (Watson, 1993).

2.2.3 Tall structures

High-rise structures involve variety of forms and shapes which require for
considerable flexibility to create exciting habitable and multiple use space. Usage of
frame as a 3-dimensional arrangement resisting gravity and lateral forces is needed
to exhibit such requirements ( Iyengar, 1993).

In steel structure application this can be achieved by several frame system

approaches. There are 4 types of frame systems used which depends on height of the
buildings. Buildings of about 35 stories tall are constructed using shear frames while
buildings of about 45 stories are using interacting system. The third type known as
partial tubular systems are used for buildings about 55 stories tall to 65 stories tall
while the forth type known as tabular type used for buildings about 95 to 110 stories
tall. Shear frame is planar rectilinear arrangement of beams and columns with rigid
joints while the interacting system consists of frame with shear truss. Tabular
systems consist of several application of framed tube. Framed tube is close spacing
of columns on exterior rigid frames forming a closed plan shape (Iyengar, 1993).
 9

2.2.4 Composite structure

In certain circumstances, the application of steel structure may come in

combination of structural forms with either concrete or masonry. It is especially
when bulk is required such as for floor slabs or continuous walls or severe fire
resistance requirements. Some examples of composite structure types are reinforced
concrete core or shear wall with steel frame, steel frame for lower storeys with
reinforce concrete with reinforced concrete walls construction above, bridge and
suspended structures (Plank and Gregson, 1993).

2.2.5 Bridges

The structural steels having the advantage of long spanning capability are
commonly used for long and big steel bridges construction. The longest suspension
steel bridge in the world is located in Japan and known as the Akashi Kaikyo
Bridge. The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge is of 1991m centre span length. In terms of
seismic design, bridge construction mainly aiming to utilize the ductility of steel
bridge members and structures (Kitada, 2006).

2.3 Local IBS projects using steel structure

In Malaysia there are many successful IBS projects using steel structures
(Bahruddin, 2006). Each project was constructed using different techniques. Among
the projects using IBS steel construction in Malaysia are Kuala Lumpur Convention
Centre (KLCC), Serdang Hospital and the Petronas Twin Tower.
 10

2.3.1 Kuala Lumpur convention centre (KLCC)

KLCC is one of the successful IBS projects in Malaysia. It is an icon

building in Kuala Lumpur. It was constructed using the combination of prefabricated
steel roof truss with composite steel deck floor system (Bahruddin, 2006).

Figure 2.1: KLCC during construction

2.3.2 Serdang hospital

Serdang hospital is the first hospital in Malaysia to be constructed using

hybrid IBS system which is the combination of steel and pre-cast concrete
structures. It is a 620-bed hospital located near to the PLUS Highway-Kajang
Interchange on the way to Putrajaya. The hospital building consists of more than
6,100 tonnes of steel elements which were used to construct the main frame. The
main structures of the main building of the hospital were constructed using structural
steel beams and columns while the floors were constructed using permanent steel
formwork panels which were topped with in-situ concrete (Shahri, 2005).
 11

Figure 2.2: Serdang hospital

2.3.4 Petronas Twin Tower

The 88-storey Petronas Twin Towers was constructed using the application
of Industrialized Building Systems (IBS), particularly steel frames. Steel were used
in complementing the 80 MPa (maximum) concrete central core and perimeter
columns while the structural steel sections were used in the pinnacle, the sky bridge
and the long-span floor beams that support reinforced concrete-filled metal decks
(Shahri, 2005).

Figure 2.3: Petronas Twin Tower

 12

2.4 Construction of steel structure

Steel structure construction involved contribution of several parties. There

are four major contributors involved in steel structure construction: a steel mill, a
metal fabricator, a general contractor and a subcontractor ( Popescu et al. 2003). In
the steel structure construction, there are two matters that are essential to look at;
delivery system and labor skill in construction.

2.4.1 Delivery system

The delivery system of steel structure construction begins at the steel rolling
mill. The steel rolling mills are producing several sizes of structural steel shapes
which are kept in a warehouse. These products will be delivered to a metal fabricator
base on request made and then the fabricated product will be transported to the
construction site for erection. At the construction site, the general contractor will
either purchase fabricated structural steel elements and erect them at the project site
using his or her construction crew or purchase the prefabricated elements and use a
selected subcontractor to manage their erection. Typically, the latter option is mostly
preferred. This option requires a fabricator to fabricate the structural steel and
subcontract the erection. The general contractor will submit the plans and
specifications of the work to the fabricators for quotations. The fabricator after that
will supply structural steel detailing which include pictorial descriptions of how to
install the steel members and will be submitted to engineers to be approved. In steel
structure erection, the required equipment includes cranes, air tools, rivet busters,
welders and impact wrenches ( Popescu et al. 2003). Figure 2.6 is showing the
resources flow in the delivery system.
 13

Steel mill or
warehouse

Steel

Metal fabricator
Steel products delivered
to job site

Bid

General Coordination
Project site
contractor
(office)

Bid Labor and equipment for

structural steel erection
Steel erector or
subcontractor

Figure 2.4: Resource flow in the delivery system

2.4.2 Fabrication

The role of a fabricator is to convert rolled steel section into structural

elements that is readily to be assembled on site into finished structure. The process
of fabrication can be broken down into various operational stages. The operational
stages are material stockyard, surface preparation, cutting, holing, assembly,
painting, inspection and dispatch. These operational stages are closely linked to form
a flow network (Taggart, 1993).
 14

2.4.3 Erection

The operation of steel erection has to follow methodical routine which

consists of hoisting, temporary connections, plumbing, lining and leveling and
finally, permanent connections. The works involved are subdivided into a number of
phases which could be controlled by shape or appropriate numbers of bays or
storeys. For stability, each phase depends upon some form of restraint. Therefore,
employment of diagonal bracing, rigid type joints or stiff service cores are several
approaches used to achieve stability in steel erection (Taggart, 1993).

2.4.4 Labor skill in construction

The construction of steel structure mainly composed of fabrication and

erection. The main skills required in the construction of steel structure are in terms
of bending, handling and assembling work.

Bending steel is a unique operation which is not typically done by the main
project steel fabricator (Popescu et al. 2003). There are five methods of bending
used to produce simple or complex shapes. The first one is cold bending. It is a
process where steel is placed in a machine and curved between three rolls with
differing positions between rolls. Secondly is incremental bending which is
commonly used for chambering to very large radius by the application of point load
by a hydraulic ram or press. The third method is hot bending which can be made
either by the application of a direct flame or furnace. The next method is known as
rotary-draw bending. In this method the member is bent through rotation around a
die and produces tight radii. The fifth method is induction bending through heat and
applied to a short section which is cooled down by water (Adams, 2008).
 15

It is essential for labors to be able to handle the steel members carefully to

avoid accidents and member defect during the construction. Handling might be
differing according to type of steel member. Lightweight members may require
special fabrication and erection safety measures while light long-span beams can be
dangerous because it tends to roll and buckle when hoisted or set in place without
lateral support. Assembling in steel structure construction involve 3 types of
connections; welding, bolts and rivets. Welding is a fusion process to create a
chemical bond between 2 pieces of metal while bolts are used to fastening pieces
together. A rivet is a headed bolt or metal pin used to connect objects passing
through a hole in both pieces and the beating and pressing down the plain end to
form a second headed end (Adams, 2008). For steel structure construction, labors
must have these skills in order to construct a safe building

2.5 Benefits of steel structure application

2.5.1 Long term strength and value

Steel structure can preserve its original properties and strength. The ductility
and high fatigue strength of steel structure are the essential attributes to the structural
integrity under normal working stresses. Ductility and high fatigue strength is a
factor that contributes to the long strength of building structure (Allen, 1986).
 16

2.5.2 Changes in building use and structure

A steel structural frame offers flexibility for changes in use of the whole or a
portion of a building. Structural flexibility of steel enables it to accommodate
changes of use, finishes, location and portioning and extension with relative ease.
This makes alteration to existing frame possible and feasible and it can be made with
minimum disturbance and cost (Allen, 1986).

2.5.3 Maximum floor space

The long-spanning ability of structural steel has enabled the application of

long span beams and minimal column dimensions. The wide spans and moderate
member sizes of structural steelwork allow maximum clear floor area and effective
floor utilization and thus offer greater value for money on a nett floor area basis
especially in any major city. The high rentals properties of a major city nowadays
mean that the maximization of floor space is essential to profitability and if long
spans are required, the cost savings between steel and other forms of construction
enhance significantly (Allen, 1986).
 17

2.5.4 Reduction of foundation cost

Structural steel has a unique property where it posses high strength of per
unit weight. This means that the structure weight is small (McCormac, 1995). This
property of structural steel is known as high strength-to-weight ratio.

The lightness of a structural steel framed building as compared to a concrete

frame building can result in lower foundation costs. Predominantly when ground
conditions are poor, this weight advantage can stand for the difference between
using spread foundations and short bored piles at considerable higher cost (Allen,
1986). Besides that, this fact also is of great significance for long-span bridges and
high-rise buildings (McCormac, 1995).

2.5.5 Fast and simple construction

The fabrication of structural steelwork is an important factor leading to fast

and simple construction process. The construction process is possible to be
accelerated because erection of steel structure is not affected by weather condition
(Allen, 1986). Swifter construction in return will give lower total project cost and
enable fast occupancy of a building. It is frequently assumed that pre-engineered
buildings are 10% to 20% less expensive than the conventional one (Newman,
2004).
 18

2.5.6 Fracture toughness

Structural steels are ductile and attaining high strength. A steel member that
was loaded is still able to withstand large force though its deformation is large. This
indicates that steel member can be subjected to large deformation during fabrication
and erection without any fracture. The ability of a material to absorb energy in large
numbers is called toughness. (McCormac, 1995)

2.5.7 Minimum wastage

The fabrication of structural steel and factory based work enable wastage
minimization, not only on site but throughout the design and manufacturing
processes as well with the optimization achieved through computer aided design and
manufacturing and fully or semi-automated production lines. Though steel
construction wastages occurrence depends on the complexity of the manufacturing
process and the product, the wastages are typically between the range of 1%-4%.
(Burgan and Samsom, 2006)
 19

2.6 Problems and issue of the application of steel structure

2.6.1 Corrosion

The most common problem of steel as a construction material is corrosion.

Steel is very susceptible to corrosion. Corrosion is the destruction of metal by its
reaction with the environment and its occurrence within the application of steel
structure is mainly caused by the reaction of steel and atmosphere. It is known as
atmospheric corrosion. This reaction is an electrochemical oxidation process that
usually produces rust or other metal oxide and initiates by the presence of water and
oxygen. Corrosion affects the usable properties of steel which can cause functional
faults to steel structure. The failure of steel structures caused by atmospheric
corrosion regularly occurs due to the failure of surface finishes to function
effectively. Among the reasons are; not sufficiently dimensioned or maintained,
being applied to poorly prepared surfaces and constructional method applied for the
element or detail did not enable good application of the anticorrosive protective
layers. Increased corrosion mainly occurs in places where the constructional method
or position of an element speeds up corrosion. Among the common position of
corrosion occurrence are gaps, cavities (in tank) inside open profile and at the
penetration of structural elements through flooring and of the common construction
methods which accelerates corrosion are variations in joints and connections (Agcs
et al, 2005).
 20

2.6.2 Material fatigue

Material fatigue occurs in steel structures exposed to variable stress with a

large number of oscillations (shocks). It particularly occurs in bridge structures,
girder of crane runways and complex structures and also possible to occur in slender
structures such as chimneys and sky scrapers which are exposed to dynamic effects
of wind load (Agcs et al, 2005).

2.6.3 Brittle fracture

Steel structure is very liable to brittle fracture. There are cases where brittle
fracture of elements occurred without load from external forces. The fracture
occurred originating in the rigid structural elements where there are residual stresses
from rolling or welding. Constructional parts could also be broken by brittle fracture
at low stress, which could possibly lower than the design strength, when the material
tenacious enough. Brittle fracture can cause immediate collapse of a structure. The
occurrence of brittle fracture depends particularly on size and orientation of defects
especially planar, rate of loading, tenacity of materials which depends on
temperature, material thickness and level of stress, including the influence of
residual voltages (Agcs et al, 2005).
 21

2.6.4 Effect of high temperature

When steel structure is in the influence of high temperature ambience, it will

tend to deform and cause structure failures. The augmentation of temperature will
decrease the yield value considerably and the modulus of steel elasticity. This will
gradually decrease the steel capacity and causing massive deformation. Permanent
deformation may exceed allowable tolerances and the steel properties can be
affected by fast cooling while the structure is still in high temperature ambience
(Agcs et al, 2005).

2.6.5 Lack of reserve strength

The fabled efficiency of the application of steel structure is the difficulty of

adapting existing pre-engineered buildings to new loading requirements. This is
causing future loading modification must be approached with extreme caution
because small additional weight imposed on the structure can theoretically
overstress the structure designed (Newman, 2004).

2.6.6 Lack of standardization

It is undoubtedly that, steel manufacturers and builders are not a like.

Majority of the manufacturers tend adapt certain quality standards of design and
manufacture which belong to a trade association or a certification program while
some other suppliers might not accept the same constraints. A structure can be
assembled together with separately purchased metal-building components but such
 22

buildings are prone to failures. It is important therefore, to know how to specify a

certain level of performance, rather than to assume that every manufacturer will
provide the quality desired for the project (Newman, 2004).

2.6.7 Susceptibility to buckling

Steel structure may possess the property of high strength per unit weight.
However, steel structures are vulnerable to buckling failure. Long and slender
compression member will create greater risk of buckling danger. Therefore, when
steel is used for columns it could be that it is not economical to do so because
considerable material has to be used to stiffen the columns against buckling
(McCormac, 1995).

2.6.8 Fireproofing

Steel structures are incombustible but its strength will reduced tremendously
at common temperatures reached in fires when other materials in a building burn.
Most of the cases, the building themselves turn out to be the only fuel for the fires.
Furthermore, steel is an excellent heat conductor. Non-fireproofed steel member
may transmit enough heat to ignite materials which are in contact with the member.
Therefore, steel frame of building may need to be protected by materials with certain
insulating characteristics or fire sprinkler if it is to meet the building code
requirements (McCormac, 1995).
 23

2.6.9 Price escalation and shortfall supply

The price and shortfall supply issues of steel are not uncommon to the
Malaysian construction industry. Inadequate supply of steel and its price escalation
have been a recurring problem over the years, more recently in 2003 to 2004 and
previously. On 4th June 2007, it was reported by the local news that shortage of steel
will impact projects. The main issue reported was that there are difficulties sourcing
for adequate supply of steel bar of certain size despite paying the new price ceiling
of RM 19029. On 16th April 2007, the ceiling price for steel bars and billets were
raised by the domestic trade and consumer affair ministry by 20%. The higher steel
price had led to a 5% to 15% rise in the construction cost. On August 7 th 2008, the
local steel ceiling price on May 12 th 2008 has escalated by 55% to RM4, 000 per
tonne currently, moving in tandem with the international price of about US$1,200 to
US$1,300 per tonne (Star, 2007; Star 2008).

2.7 CIDB strategy of promoting the use of steel structure in the

Industrialized Building System

The construction industry development board (CIDB) has redesigned its

strategies and formulated the IBS roadmap 2003-2010 to promote the adoption of
industrialized building system (IBS) to the local construction industry. The IBS
roadmap was formulated base on 5M strategies. The 5M strategies are strategies
formed base on five areas of construction such as man power, materials and
machineries, management, financial and promotion. These strategies are formulated
to meet the needs of the local construction industry to adopt IBS. Even so, the
promotions made particularly on the application of steel structure only cover the
areas of man power, materials and machineries, and management.
 24

2.7.1 Man power

In the area of man power, the construction industry development board

(CIDB) basically run several programs that equipped the construction industry
players with skilled such as installation, assembling and erecting. Besides that, the
construction industry development board (CIDB) has started the apprenticeship
programs with steel manufacturers for on job skill. To support these programs,
developments were made on the new national occupational skill standard to support
those programs mentioned earlier. The construction industry development board
(CIDB) has also provided programs such as seminars and technical courses that
include steel structure application.

2.7.2 Materials and machineries

In this aspect, the construction industry development board (CIDB) focused

on the standardization of steel structure application. The construction industry
development board (CIDB) has planned to publish Malaysia Standard (MS) on
structural use of steel and also plan to publish construction industry standard (CIS)
on steel frames system and formworks.

2.7.3 Management

In the area of management, the construction industry development board

(CIDB) emphasized more on the quality programs. Among the efforts made are
producing assurance programs and publishing quality assurance programs on steel
frames and system formworks.
 25

CHAPTER 3

METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction

Methodology is preliminary procedures used for conducting study. The

procedures used basically to obtain data in order to obtain clear observation of the
study. Research involves a process that begins from an idea and planning and carries
out in, investigation, results analysis and perceiving the findings. Methodology
covers the whole process of the research.

In this study the secondary data were generated using literature review. The
primary data was generated through interviews and questionnaire survey form.
 26

3.2 Secondary data

Secondary data is information gather from material on which research is

based. The information can be source out from reading materials such as journals,
articles, newspaper, magazines and through internet. In this study, the literature
review the review of steel applications in construction, problems and benefits of
steel structure usage, construction of steel structure and CIDB promotion of steel
structure in IBS. The secondary data obtained through literature review, basically is
the foundation for the survey to be executed. Target observations of the survey for
this study were formed according to the objective of the study and based on
literature review.

3.3 Primary data

Primary data are data obtain directly from the people who are considered
experienced and knowledgeable in the subject of the study. The data collection was
conducted to seek out for factual information on what the respondents involved in
the past and work they involved in currently and their opinions regarding the subject
of the study. This study uses two methods to collect primary data. The methods are
distributing questionnaire and conducting interviews.
 27

3.3.1 Questionnaire

The questionnaire of this study was aimed to obtain the response from the
local construction industry regarding usage of steel structure in construction. The
target respondents of the questionnaire are supplier, consultant, contractor and
developer. The questionnaires were distributed in 2 areas, which are in the states of
Johor and Kuala Lumpur. The aimed of the questionnaire survey is to obtain
observation steel construction in the local construction industry. The questionnaire
consists of small portion of multiple choice questions and bigger portion of ranking
questions. The rating system adopt by the ranking questions is as follow;

Table 3.1: Rating system used in the ranking questions

Rating score Level of importance
1 Least important
2 Less important
3 Moderately important
4 Very important
5 Most Important

Principally, the questionnaire comprises of 3 sections labeled as section A, section

B, Section C and section D.

The section A of the questionnaire of the study was design to identify the
background of the respondents briefly. It is to distinguish whether the respondents
are representative from the contractor, consultant, developer and supplier company.

The section B of the questionnaire investigates extends of steel structure

usage. The questions were designed to determine the percentage of steel usage in
 28

each project, type of construction project that frequently utilized steel structure
application, factors influence steel structure selection for construction and the
respondents regarding steel structure utilization in the local IBS projects.

The section C of the questionnaire was designed with the aim of identifying
the prominent problems and benefits of steel applications. The last question of
section C was designed to observe the respondents evaluation between the benefits
and problems of steel structure application.

The last section of the questionnaire which is section D consists of one

question that requires the respondents to rank strategy to promote steel application in
IBS.

3.3.2 Interviews

In this study, the interviews were conducted to investigate steel structure

usage in IBS only. This interview was targeted to seek information from 3 different
points of views regarding steel structure usage in IBS projects. The interview
consists of three sections. The first section investigate the extend of steel structure
usage in IBS and difference between conventional steel construction and IBS steel
construction while second section investigate the benefits related to steel structure
application, factors causing the low usage in local IBS project and the respondents
stand regarding promoting usage of steel application in IBS. The final section
investigate the strategy to promote and improve steel usage in IBS. The respondents
involved are from Zamil Steel Pivot Engineering and Construction company,
Innovacia Sdn. Bhd and the Construction Research Institute of Malaysia (CREAM).
 29

3.4 Data analysis

In order to perceive the data collected from the survey, there are 3 types of
analysis method use. The first one is used to analyze multiple choices question. The
multiple choices question were analyze using percentage. From the percentage
analysis data can be interpreted to extract the respondents view regarding subject
investigated in the study.

The second method is used to analyze the ranking questions of the

questionnaire. The method used is known as relative index (RI). The formula is as
shown below;

Relative index (RI) = (5N5) + (4N4) + (3N3) + (2N2) + (1N1)

[(N1-5) (N5 + 4N4 + 3N3 + 2N2 + 1N1)]

Where: N5 = Number of respondents who opted for most important as the answer
N4 = Number of respondents who opted for very important as the answer
N3 = Number of respondents that opted for moderately important as the
answer
N2 = Number of respondents who opted for less important as the answer
N1= Number of respondents who opted for least important as the answer

The method of result analysis was used to analyze the content of the
interviews. This method is known as content analysis. The content of the interviews
were presented in table where clear observation can be made clearer.
 30

CHAPTER 4

RESULTS AND ANALYSIS

4.1 Introduction

This chapter is dedicated to analyze the data collected. The data obtained
using questionnaire survey forms are collected from Kuala Lumpur and Johor while
the data generated through interviews were gathered from three respondents.

The methods used to analyze data collected using questionnaire survey form
are relative index and percentage. The interviews on the other hand, were analyzed
using content analysis. The data collected are converted into more meaningful,
informative and useful format and presented using charts and tables.
 31

4.2 Interview

There were 3 interviews conducted in this study. These interviews were

targeted to gain opinions from 3 different points of views. The respondents involved
are from Zamil Steel Pivot Engineering and Construction company, Innovacia Sdn.
Bhd and the Construction Research Institute of Malaysia (CREAM). Zamil Steel
Pivot Engineering and Construction is a manufacturing company that involved only
in IBS components manufacturing and Innovacia Sdn. Bhd. is consultant company
that mainly involved in IBS projects. The person that was being interviewed from
Zamil Steel Pivot Engineering and Construction company is a sales support engineer
(respondent 1) while the person being interviewed from Innovacia Sdn. Bhd. is a
structural engineer (respondent 2). The person that was being interviewed from the
Construction Research Institute of Malaysia (CREAM) is the Manager of the
institution (respondent 3).

4.2.1 Extend of steel structure usage

Further view regarding steel structure usage in the local construction industry
can be observed through analyzing opinions of respondents involved in the
interview. In this section, the interview was conducted with the aim of making
observation to their idea regarding steel structure usage in IBS and opinions
regarding the steel structure usage in Malaysia. Table 5.1 is showing the responses
of the respondents.
 32

Table 4.1: Opinions regarding steel structure usage

Respondent 1: Respondent 2: Respondent 3:
Questions
IBS Manufacturer IBS consultant CREAM
Is there any
difference - Yes - No - Structural steel
between steel - Conventional steel are similar but
construction in construction: differ in terms of
conventional -requires more workers the process of
construction at jobsite construction
projects and IBS to weld and erect the
projects? structure
-no quality assurance
- require more time to
complete project
- IBS steel
construction:
-fabrication and joints
welding are done in
factory
-quality are maintained
as per design criteria
by the quality control
department thus having
higher degree of
quality assurance
-require less time to
complete project;
standard building
delivery is only 8
weeks
-require less workers at
jobsite
 33

Respondent 1: Respondent 2: Respondent 3:

Questions
IBS Manufacturer IBS consultant CREAM
Do you find that - No - No - No
steel structure - local construction - mainly - due to
application is industry players concentrated in the expansive price
popular in IBS prefer to use high-rise building of steel
projects? concrete projects:
-Pusat Matrikulasi,
Kuala Pilah
-CIMB tower
-KLCC
- also only
government
projects during year
1999 to 2001
What type of - basically all but - all -high rise
projects that is the local industry - but more cost building
suitable for steel prefer to use effective for high- -large span
structure concrete rise building and structures
application in long span building -bridges
Malaysia? such as factories
and halls

The responses regarding difference between conventional steel construction

and IBS steel construction as shown in table 5.1 is clearly showing that the opinion
from respondent 1and respondent 3 are in agreement while the opinion from
respondent 2 is in contradiction to the opinions from the other 2 respondents. The
finding which can be drawn out here is the consultants in the local construction
industry might be not clear or aware of steel application in the IBS implementation.
There are several differences being mentioned between conventional steel
construction and IBS steel construction by respondent 1. The differences are from
the aspect of numbers of labors on site, quality assurance and completion period of
construction. Respondent 3 clarify that structural steels used are similar in both
construction except for the construction process.
 34

The responses obtained from the second question have shown that all of the
respondents giving the same opinion regarding popularity of steel structure. The
finding that ca n be obtained here is steel structure is not a popular choice in local
IBS projects. As can be seen in table 5.1, the reasons are basically due to the
preference of the local construction industry and steel price.

The responses to the third question review the opinions of the respondents
regarding types of project that is suitable for steel structure application in Malaysia.
Respondent 1 and respondent 2giving similar opinion that steel structure
applications in Malaysia are suitable for all type of projects while respondent
3specified several type of project that are suitable for steel application in Malaysia.
Basically, the finding can be obtained here is steel structure actually can be applied
widely in the local construction industry but it is limited to factors like the
preference of the construction industry players and cost effectiveness.

4.2.2 Benefits and problems of steel structure application

The application of steel structure has its benefits and problems in the IBS
projects. In this section, questions were aimed to identify the problems causing the
unpopularity of steel structure and benefit of its application. Besides that, the
respondents also were asked about their stand regarding promoting steel structure in
IBS. Table 5.2, is showing the respondents response regarding benefits, problems
and their stand regarding promoting steel structure in IBS.
 35

Table 4.2: Benefits, problems and respondents stand regarding promoting steel
structure in IBS
Respondent 1: Respondent 2: Respondent 3:
Questions
IBS Manufacturer IBS consultant CREAM
What are the - the local construction - the local - expansive price
factors/ problems industry players consultants and of steel
leading to the having lack ability to contractors are
unpopularity of be acquaintance with having lack of
steel application the economy, knowledge and
in IBS projects versatility and experience
aesthetic features of regarding steel
pre-engineered steel construction in
buildings IBS
- expensive price
of steel
What are the - fast construction - fast construction - prefabricated
benefits of steel - less labor -clean off-site
structure - versatile environment -clean
application? - less labor at jobsite - steel structure is construction
relatively lighter site
-easy to install - speedy
-reduce wastage construction
- standardized

Do you - yes - yes - yes

encourage the - because the -more choices in - it guarantees
application of government already terms of IBS less dependency
steel structure in implement the application on foreign labors
IBS projects? adoption of IBS and it promotes
off-site
constructions

The respondents response to the first question in this section has shown that
there are 2 factors that leading to the unpopularity of steel structure application in
IBS. The factors are lack of knowledge and experience regarding benefits and steel
construction in IBS and expansive steel price. The response to the second question
has shown that the common benefit of steel structure as mentioned by all of the
respondents is fast construction. The response from respondent 2 and respondent 3
have shown that another common benefit of steel construction is clean construction
environment. As can be seen in table 5.2 all of the respondents agree to one another
that they encourage steel application in IBS due to certain reasons such as more
choices in term of IBS application and less dependency on foreign labors.
 36

The finding that can be drawn out here is steel structure application actually
bring forth many benefits to a construction project especially in terms of speed of
construction. However, all of these benefits are not fully utilized due to lack of
knowledge and experience of the local construction industry players regarding steel
application in IBS. Another problem that limits steel application in the local
construction project is the expansive steel price. Despite all of these problems all of
the respondents still encourage steel application in IBS.

4.2.3 Strategy to promote steel application in IBS

In the previous section, it is clear that steel applications in local IBS projects
are limited due to 2 main problems. The problems are lack of knowledge and
experience of the local construction industry players regarding steel application in
IBS and expansive steel price. Therefore, there should be a proper strategy to
promote steel application in IBS. Table 5.3 is showing the opinions from the
respondents regarding the strategy to promote steel application in IBS.

In this section the interviews were conducted with the aim to obtain finding
in terms improvement need to be made and strategy to promote steel application in
IBS. In table c it can be seen clearly that each respondent has different thoughts on
how to improve and promote steel application in IBS.
 37

Table 4.3: Strategy to promote steel application in IBS

Respondent 1:
Respondent 2: Respondent 3:
Questions IBS
IBS consultant CREAM
Manufacturer
In what area that - develop - exposure, training - more skilled
should be improved awareness as well as workers, erectors
to support steel program to the incentives
structure construction
application in IBS industry players as
in Malaysia? well to the public
also regarding
steel application in
IBS
Could you please - organize an -government - more
suggest several exhibition or should consider to government
strategies to seminar in the give out more projects that
promote steel promotion of IBS incentives emphasize on
structure in IBS -tax and levy using structural
projects? reduction or steel
exemption

As can be seen in table 5.3, the area that should be improved to support steel
structure application s in local IBS projects is in term of equipping the construction
industry players with knowledge and skilled of steel structure application in IBS.
Respondent 1 suggested that awareness program should be developed while
respondent 2 suggested that the construction industry players should be given
exposure to knowledge of steel application. Respondent 3 suggested that increase
number of skilled labors. The basic point here is equipping all the construction
industry players with knowledge and skill.

There are several strategies suggested by the respondents are shown in table
5.3. Each strategy suggested by the respondents is an approach which can be used to
comprehend the problems identified earlier in the previous section of the interviews.
Respondent 3 suggested that more government projects should emphasize structural
steel usage while respondent 2 suggested strategy in term of economical wise such
as incentives and tax reduction or exemption. Respondent 1 on the other hand
respondent suggested a strategy in term of knowledge wise such as organizing
exhibition and seminar.
 38

4.3 Quantity of questionnaire survey form

A total of 120 questionnaires were distributed where 60 of it were sent

through postal services to companies in Kuala Lumpur and another 60 of it were
distributed to companies in Johor. Only 29 questionnaires were sent back where 15
of it were from the respondents in Kuala Lumpur and the 14 of it were from Johor.
From 29 questionnaires received, 2 of them were not properly completed where a
portion of the questionnaire was being left out blank and both are from the
respondents in Johor.

4.3.1 Respondents

The respondents involved in the survey in Johor and Kuala Lumpur are
shown in figure 4.1 and figure 4.2 respectively. The survey in Johor manages to get
responds from consultants, developers, contractors and suppliers. Majority of the
respondents in Johor are contractors. They cover 50% of the total respondents.
Figure below shows the proportion of respondents involved in percentage.

50%
Consultant
8%
Developer
17%
25% Contractor
Supplier

Figure 4.1: Respondents from Johor

 39

The survey in Kuala Lumpur however only manages to get the opinions from
consultants and contractors only. The main respondents are consultants. They cover
73% of the total respondents.

27%

Consultant
73% Contractor

Figure 4.2: Respondents from Kuala Lumpur

4.3.2 Extend of steel structure usage

In order to indentify extend of steel structure usage in the local construction

industry, there are 3 factors being investigated. The factors are the levels of steel
structure usage in each project, the type of construction project that frequently utilize
the application of steel structure and the factors that influence the selection of steel
structure for construction.

In determining the level of steel structure usage, the different levels are
divided into four quadrants of steel structure usage in each project as shown in
figure 4.3.
 40

Ranking based on relative index is used to identify the type of construction

mainly utilize the application of steel structure and the factors that manipulate the
selection of steel structure for construction.

4.3.2.1 The level of steel structure usage in each project

In figure 4.3 it can be seen that 41.67% of the total respondents from Johor
are using 0%-19% of steel structure usage and 33.33% of the total respondents are
using 20%-49%of steel structure usage. On the other hand, only 8.33% of the total
respondents are using 80%-100% of steel structure in each of their project. Figure
4.3 below is obviously indicating that steel structure usage in Johor is very low.

8.33%

0%-19%
16.67% 41.67% 20%-49%
50%-79%
33.33% 80%-100%

Figure 4.3: Level of steel structure usage in each project in Johor

The respondents from Kuala Lumpur also indicate that steel usage in Kuala
Lumpur also at low level of usage. More than half of the respondents from Kuala
Lumpur (53.33%) as shown in figure 4.4 are using at the level of 20%-49% of steel
structure and 26.67% of the total respondents are using 0%-19% of steel structure
usage in each of their project. On the other hand, 20% of the total respondents are
using 80%-100% of steel structure usage in each project in Kuala Lumpur. From
 41

both figure 4.3 and figure 4.4 it can be seen that the level of steel structure usage in
each project in Kuala Lumpur is slightly higher than those in Johor.

0.00%

20.00% 0%-19%
26.67%
20%-49%
50%-79%
53.33%
80%-100%

Figure 4.4: Level of steel structure usage in each project in Kuala Lumpur

4.3.2.2 The types of construction project that frequently utilize the application
of steel structure.

The type of construction project that frequently utilize the application of steel
structure in both areas have shown that there is different in the trend of in terms of
applying steel structure in construction projects. In table 4.4 it can be seen that the
respondents in Johor have ranked the construction of factories as the type of project
that most frequently utilizes the application of steel structure. The construction of
bridges was ranked as second after the construction of factories and followed by the
construction of commercial buildings.
 42

Table 4.4: The types of construction which frequently utilize steel structure
application in Johor
Types of construction Relative Index Ranking
Factories 0.917 1
Bridges 0.733 2
Commercial building 0.733 3
High-rise building 0.700 4
Oil and gas offshore platform 0.683 5
Marine structures 0.667 6
Power plants 0.650 7
Low-rise building 0.550 8
Tunnels 0.550 9
Residential building 0.533 10

The respondents from Kuala Lumpur on the other hand have ranked the
construction of oil and gas offshore platform as the type of construction project that
most frequently utilizes the application of steel structure while the construction of
factories was ranked as second as shown in table 4.5. The construction of power
plants was ranked third after the construction of factories.

Table 4.5: The types of construction which frequently utilize steel structure
application in Kuala Lumpur

Types of construction Relative Index Ranking

Oil and gas offshore platform 0.880 1
Factories 0.867 2
Power plants 0.760 3
High-rise building 0.720 4
Commercial building 0.720 5
Bridges 0.707 6
Marine structures 0.707 7
Tunnels 0.520 8
Low-rise building 0.453 9
Residential building 0.427 10
 43

In both table 4.4 and table 4.5, it can be seen clearly that residential building
was ranked as the type of construction project that utilizes the application of steel
structure the least by respondents from both area.

4.3.2.3 Factors that influence the selection of steel structure for construction

There are many factors that influence the selection of steel structure for
construction. The ranking of the factors that influence the selection of steel structure
in both Johor and Kuala Lumpur are shown in table 4.6 and table 4.7 respectively. In
table 4.6 it can be seen that the factor of speed of construction was ranked as the
most influential factor by the respondents from Johor while the factor of ease of
erection or construction was ranked as the second most influential factor.

Table 4.6: Factors that influence the selection of steel structure for construction in
Johor

Factors Relative Index Ranking

Speed of construction 0.800 1
Ease of erection/construction 0.783 2
Flexibility of design 0.767 3
Labor reduction 0.767 4
Labor cost 0.767 5
Quality 0.750 6
Equipment/machinery required 0.750 7
Clients requirement 0.750 8
Site space 0.717 9
Wastages generated at site 0.700 10
Usage of skilled labor 0.683 11
Cost saving 0.650 12
 44

The respondents from Kuala Lumpur also ranked the factor of speed of
construction as the most influential factor in the selection of steel structure for
construction as shown in table 4.7. Quality is a factor that was ranked second after
the factor of speed of construction by respondents from Kuala Lumpur while the
third most influential factor is the flexibility of design.

Table 4.7: Factors that influence the selection of steel structure for construction in
Kuala Lumpur

Factors Relative Index Ranking

Speed of construction 0.853 1
Quality 0.827 2
Flexibility of design 0.800 3
Ease of erection/construction 0.787 4
Usage of skilled labor 0.787 5
Equipment/machinery required 0.760 6
Site space 0.760 7
Wastages generated at site 0.747 8
Labor reduction 0.707 9
Clients requirement 0.680 10
Labor cost 0.653 11
Cost saving 0.640 12

The ranking obtained from respondents from both areas has shown an
agreement that cost saving is a factor that least influential in selecting steel structure
for construction. Other factor being suggested by the respondents is architecture
design.
 45

4.3.2.4 Utilization of steel application in the Industrialized Building System

(IBS)

Basically, the respondents from both areas have different opinions regarding
the utilization of steel application in IBS. In the questionnaire the respondents were
asked whether the steel applications in IBS are limited or otherwise. Figure 4.5 and
figure 4.6 are showing the feedback from respondents in Johor and Kuala Lumpur
respectively.

33%
50% yes
Not sure
17% No

Figure 4.5: Feedback from respondents in Johor

The feedback from the respondents in Johor showed that 50% of the total
respondents answered yes showing that they agree that steel application in IBS is
limited while 17% of them are not sure. The other 33% of the total respondents
answered no in response to the given question.
 46

The feedback from the respondents in Kuala Lumpur on the other hand
showed that 53% of the total respondents answered no; indicating they do not agree
that steel application in IBS is limited while 40% of them answered not sure. Only
7% of the respondents from Kuala Lumpur answered yes to the given question.

7%

yes
53% 40%
Not sure
No

Figure 4.6: Feedback from respondents in Kuala Lumpur

4.3.4 The problems and benefits related to steel structure application

The applications of steel structure have its strength and weaknesses and
accordingly will bring forth benefits as well as problem to construction. To have a
clear idea of the type of benefits and problems of steel application experience by the
local construction industry players, respondents were asked to rank the benefits and
problems. Besides that, respondents also were asked to evaluate between the
problem and benefits of steel structure application.
 47

4.3.4.1 The problems related to steel structure application

There are many problems associated with the application of steel structure
and the problems experience by the construction industry players may differ from
one another. Even so, there will be one problem that is very prominent among all of
the problems. Table 4.8 and table 4.9 are showing the ranking made by respondents
from Johor and Kuala Lumpur respectively.

In table 4.8 and table 4.9, it can be seen that the problem of extreme price
rise was ranked as the most prominent problem by respondents from both Johor and
Kuala Lumpur. On the other hand, the problem of lack of reserve strength was
ranked as the least prominent problem by respondents from both areas.

Table 4.8: The problems related to steel structure application in Johor

Problems Relative Index Ranking
Extreme price rise 0.817 1
Shortfall supply 0.717 2
High maintenance cost 0.717 3
Transportation 0.700 4
Corrosion 0.683 5
Fire proofing cost 0.683 6
Material fatigue 0.650 7
Deformation due to high temperature 0.650 8
Brittle fracture 0.633 9
Susceptibility to buckling 0.633 10
High labor cost 0.633 11
Lack of standardization 0.600 12
Lack of reserve strength 0.567 13
 48

The second most prominent problem ranked by the respondents from Johor
is the problem shortfall supply which is followed by the problem of high
maintenance cost. On the contrary, respondents from Kuala Lumpur ranked the
problem of shortfall supply as third most prominent problem. The problem which is
being ranked as the second most prominent problem by the respondents from Kuala
Lumpur is the problem of corrosion. By referring to table 4.8, the problem corrosion
was ranked as the fifth prominent problem in the application of steel structure in
Johor.

Table 4.9: The problems related to steel structure application in Kuala Lumpur
Problems Relative Index Ranking
Extreme price rise 0.840 1
Corrosion 0.787 2
Shortfall supply 0.747 3
Fire proofing cost 0.733 4
Material fatigue 0.680 5
High maintenance cost 0.680 6
High labor cost 0.667 7
Lack of standardization 0.653 8
Transportation 0.653 9
Brittle fracture 0.627 10
Deformation due to high temperature 0.613 11
Susceptibility to buckling 0.587 12
Lack of reserve strength 0.520 13

4.3.4.2 The benefits related to steel structure application

There are many benefits which can be utilized from the application of steel
structure. Table 4.10 and table 4.11 are showing the ranking made by respondents
from Johor and Kuala Lumpur respectively. In both table 4.10 and table 4.11, it can
be seen that there are similarities in the ranking made by respondents from Johor and
Kuala Lumpur.
 49

The ranking made by respondents from both Johor and Kuala Lumpur have
shown that the most prominent benefit of steel structure application experienced by
the local construction industry is the benefit of fast and simple erection or
construction while the least prominent benefit experience by the local construction
industry is the benefit of cost effective.

Table 4.10: The benefit related to steel structure application in Johor

Benefits Relative Index Ranking
Fast and simple construction/erection 0.850 1
Flexible for building changes in use 0.817 2
Light structure 0.800 3
Long term strength 0.783 4
Fracture toughness 0.783 5
Design flexibility 0.783 6
Quality finish 0.783 7
High strength 0.783 8
Maximum floor space 0.750 9
Long spanning capability 0.733 10
Versatile (adaptable) 0.733 11
Usage of skilled labor 0.733 12
Cleaner site 0.733 13
Less wastage 0.717 14
Cost effective 0.650 15

The benefit being ranked as the second most prominent benefit after the
benefit of fast and simple construction or erection by the respondents from Johor is
the benefit of flexible for building changes in use and the benefit of light structure
was ranked third as shown in table 4.10. The other two benefits being ranked as the
third and second least prominent benefit respectively are the benefit of cleaner site
and less wastage.
 50

In table 4.11, it can be seen that the second most prominent benefit being
ranked by the respondents from Kuala Lumpur is the benefit of long spanning
capability and the benefit of quality finish was ranked third. The benefit of less
wastage is ranked as the third least prominent benefit while the benefit of usage of
skilled labor is ranked as second least prominent benefit.

Table 4.11: The benefits related to steel structure application in Kuala Lumpur
Benefits Relative Index Ranking
Fast and simple construction/erection 0.907 1
Long spanning capability 0.880 2
Quality finish 0.867 3
Long term strength 0.853 4
Flexible for building changes in use 0.827 5
Design flexibility 0.813 6
High strength 0.813 7
Cleaner site 0.813 8
Versatile (adaptable) 0.800 9
Fracture toughness 0.787 10
Light structure 0.787 11
Maximum floor space 0.760 12
Less wastage 0.733 13
Usage of skilled labor 0.720 14
Cost effective 0.680 15

4.3.4.3 Assessment of benefits and problems of steel structure application

The local construction industry players may attain different experience from
one another regarding steel structure application and as a result they also may have
different judgments when come across the matter of benefit and problem analysis. In
the questionnaire, the respondents were asked whether the application of steel
structure in IBS give more benefit than problem. Figure 4.7 and figure 4.8 are
showing the feedback from the respondents from Johor and Kuala Lumpur
respectively.
 51

8%

yes

92% No

Figure 4.7: Feedback from Johor

In figure 4.7, it can be seen that 92% of the total respondents from Johor
answered yes indicating that they agree that steel application in IBS give more
benefits than problems. Similarly in figure 4.8, majority (80%) of the respondents
from Kuala Lumpur also answered yes to the given question. Only a small portion of
the respondents from both Johor and Kuala Lumpur answered; no. In figure 4.7 and
figure 4.8 it can be seen that only 8% of the respondents from Johor and 13% of the
respondents from Kuala Lumpur answered ;no indicating that they didnt agree that
steel application give more benefit than problem. In figure 4.8, only 7% of the total
respondents from Kuala Lumpur are answered not sure.

7%
yes
13%
Not sure
80% No

Figure 4.8: Feedback from Kuala Lumpur

 52

4.3. 5 Strategy to promote steel application in the Industrialized Building

System (IBS)

The findings regarding extend of steel structure usage earlier on have

identified that the level of steel structure usage in Malaysia is actually very low.
However, from the feedback of the respondents regarding assessment of benefits and
problems of steel structure usage in IBS has shown that majority of the respondents
agreed that steel structure usage gives more benefits than problems. Therefore, there
should be strategies to encourage more steel application in IBS so that the local IBS
projects may gain benefit from the usage of steel structure. Table 4.12 and table 4.13
are showing the rankings of strategy to promote steel application in IBS made
respectively by the respondents from Johor and Kuala Lumpur.

In table 4.12, it can be seen that the strategy of giving exposure to the
benefits of steel application was being ranked as the main strategy to promote steel
application in IBS by the respondents from Johor. Similarly, as can be seen in table
4.13, the respondents from Kuala Lumpur also ranked the similar strategy as the
main strategy to promote steel application in IBS.

The next strategy being ranked as the second main strategy by the
respondents from Johor is the strategy of developing awareness of the technologies
of steel application and followed by the strategy of developing awareness program
and training scheme for contractors. The strategy of reducing taxation for steel price
was ranked as the strategy that should be given the least emphasis in promoting steel
application by the respondents from Johor as shown in table 4.12.
 53

Table 4.12: Strategy to promote steel application in the industrialized building

system in Johor
Strategy Relative Ranking
Index
Exposure to the benefits of steel application 0.917 1
Develop awareness of the technologies of steel 0.900 2
application
Develop awareness program and training scheme for 0.867 3
contractors
Encourage steel usage in public projects 0.867 4
Improving structural steel supply system 0.833 5
Increase research and development for structural 0.833 6
steel usage
Trained more skilled labor in steel work 0.833 7
Increase numbers of steel manufacturer 0.800 8
Improve logistic services to structural steel supply 0.800 9
system
Reduce taxation for steel price 0.767 10

The respondents from Kuala Lumpur on the other hand have ranked the
strategy of increasing research and development for structural steel usage as the
second main strategy of promoting steel application in IBS and the strategy of
encouraging steel usage in public projects was ranked as the third main strategy. The
strategy of training more skilled labor in steel work was ranked as the strategy that
should be given the least emphasis to in order to promote steel application in IBS as
shown in table 4.13.
 54

Table 4.13: Strategy to promote steel application in the industrialized building

system in Kuala Lumpur
Strategy Relative Ranking
Index
Exposure to the benefits of steel application 0.867 1
Increase research and development for structural 0.853 2
steel usage
Encourage steel usage in public projects 0.853 3
Improving structural steel supply system 0.840 4
Develop awareness program and training scheme for 0.827 5
contractors
Develop awareness program of the technologies of 0.787 6
steel application
Improve logistic services to structural steel supply 0.713 7
system
Increase numbers of steel manufacturer 0.667 8
Reduce taxation for steel price 0.667 9
Trained more skilled labor in steel work 0.667 10

As a whole, it can be seen that the ranking of the strategies made by all of the
respondents have shown that the main target in promoting steel structure application
in IBS is to equipped the local construction industry players with adequate
knowledge of steel structure application in IBS. Having adequate knowledge of steel
structure application basically will improve the competency of the local construction
industry players especially with regard to IBS projects.
 55

CHAPTER 5

DISCUSSION

5.1 Introduction

This chapter dedicated to discuss on the overall view of the findings obtained
from the analyses of the results and the limitation of the study. The data obtained
using questionnaire survey were aimed to obtain findings regarding steel
construction in the local construction industry while the interview was designed to
obtain information from 3 different points of views regarding steel structure usage
specifically in IBS projects.

5.2 Overview of the findings

The overview of the findings summarizes the findings generated from the
analysis of the results.
 56

5.2.1 The extend of steel structure usage

The findings generated through the result analysis have shown that steel
structure usage in the local construction industry is not popular. This is also the
same case for steel structure application in the IBS implementation. The steel
structure usage in Malaysia mainly use for large structures and structures which is
mainly subjected to changes while steel structure usage in local IBS projects are
mainly applied in the construction of high-rise buildings.

It is obvious that the IBS project using steel application is limited to high-
rise building where in actual fact steel structure application can be utilize for other
type of construction. The findings can be extracted here is the IBS implementation
using steel application has not fully discover the potential of steel structure
application.

5.2.2 The benefits and problems related to steel structure application

The prominent benefit identified from the analysis of the result is the
advantage of fast and simple construction of steel structure. In the implementation of
IBS, it is also being identified that the main benefit of using steel structure is speedy
construction. This is also the similar factor that manipulates the selection of steel
structure for construction in the local construction industry. Thus, the findings that
can be drawn out here is the usage of steel structure application is mainly aiming to
utilize the benefit of fast construction.
 57

On the other hand, the most prominent problem related to steel structure
application identified in this study is the problem of steel construction cost. The cost
of steel construction mainly due to expansive steel price and subjected to steel price
escalation. The analyses of the results have shown that the main factor causing the
unpopularity of steel construction in Malaysia is cost. This is also the similar
problem faced by the steel application in the IBS implementation.

Therefore, it is in fact true that the least prominent benefit identified is cost
effective. The analyses of the results also showed that steel application is utilized
when the construction cost is of least concern. As in the implementation of IBS,
steel structure is mainly used for high-rise building because in this type of
construction usage of steel structure is found to be cost effective. Therefore another
factor which manipulates the selection of steel structure for construction is cost.

Another problem faced by the steel application in IBS implementation is the

problem of the local construction industry players having lack of knowledge and
experience of steel construction. This finding here explain clearly that why the IBS
implementation has not fully discover the potential of steel application.

As a whole it can be concluded that the local construction industry players

has limited knowledge of steel construction causing them to only utilize the
advantage of fast construction of steel application where in actual fact there are still
many advantage of steel structure has not been taken advantage of.
 58

5.2.3 Awareness of the local construction industry players

The analysis of the result has showed that the respondents still encourage
more steel application in IBS despite facing the problem of high construction cost.
The analyses of the result also showed that majority of the respondent evaluate steel
application as having more benefit than problem. Here, it can be seen that the local
construction industry players are aware that steel structure application can be further
utilized in IBS implementation because in actual fact they also aware that there are
various benefit of steel structure application which can be taken advantage of.

The main strategy identified form the result analysis has shown that
emphasis should be given more to further equip the local construction industry
players with knowledge and experience of steel construction. The finding can be
obtained here is the local construction industry players are also aware of the problem
of lack of knowledge and experience among the local construction industry players.

As a whole, it can be seen that the local construction industry players are
actually aware of the advantages of using steel structure application and weakness in
the local construction industry regarding the steel application.
 59

5.3 Limitation of study

There are several limitation identified in this study. The limitations are as
follow;

(i) There is a risk that misunderstanding may occur when the respondents
complete the questionnaire survey. Thus, there is possibility that the result of
the study to have the risk of inaccuracy.
(ii) The analysis based on limited number of respondents in the questionnaire
survey could lead to inaccurate result. Smaller number of respondent leads to
high deviation.
(iii) The study only involves two areas of study which may lead to inaccurate
result of the study. The result obtain may be true for those two areas of study
but could be otherwise for other areas in Malaysia.
(iv) The analysis of the result of study especially for data collected using
questionnaire survey form only limited to the usage of ranking using relative
index. Comparison could be made better if the results were analyzed using
Wilcoxon ranking test, where the significant level can be calculated.
Therefore the findings of the study are not fully expand.
 60

CHAPTER 6

CONCLUSIONS

6.1 Introduction

There are various benefits of steel structure application which can be fully
utilized in a wide array of applications in the Industrialized Building System.
However, steel structure application in the construction industry also subjected to
various problems as well.

Therefore the observation of extend of steel structure usage in the local

construction industry should be made in order to observe the trend of steel
application in Malaysia and the problems related to steel application should also be
identified. The observations for steel structure usage in the local IBS projects and
problems being encountered with also should be made similarly. These findings will
give a clear idea of the limitation of steel structure application in the local
construction industry especially with regard to the implementation of IBS in
Malaysia. Hence, from these findings idea of what strategy should be used to
promote steel application in the Industrialized Building System can be identified.
 61

This chapter serves to summarize and conclude the findings of this study. This
chapter also will discuss the limitation of the study. The summary of the findings
are based on the objectives of this study as highlighted below;

1. To identify the extend of steel structure usage in Malaysia.

2. To identify the problems related in the application of steel structure.
3. To identify strategy to promote steel application in the industrialized
building system

6.2 Conclusion

The conclusion of each of the objective in this study was achieved and was
made as follow.

6.2.1 Objective 1: To identify the extend of steel structure usage in Malaysia

The analyses made from the results of the study have shown that the level of
steel structure usage in the local construction industry is low and steel structure also
not a popular choice in the local IBS projects. The types of project that mainly
utilize steel structure application in Malaysia are differing according to location. In
Johor, the construction of factories is the type of project that frequently utilizes the
application of steel structure while in Kuala Lumpur the types of project that mainly
utilize steel structure application is the construction of oil and gas offshore platform.
The steel structure usage in the local IBS project on the other hand, mainly
concentrated in high-rise building and government projects during year 1999 till
2001.
 62

Principally, steel structure application in the local construction industry

(include in local IBS projects) mainly use for large span structures. The analyses
made in previous chapter identified that the main factor influences selection of steel
structure for construction is the speed of construction while the factor of cost saving
is the factor of least concern.

As a conclusion, the steel structure usage in Malaysia is not popular and

mainly applied in the construction of large span structures where the factor of speed
of construction become the major concern and the factor of cost saving is the factor
of least concern.

6.2.2 Objective 2- To identify the problem related in the application of steel

structure

The result analyses showed that the problems identified can be summarized
into four main groups as shown below.

(i) High cost of steel application

The result analysis have identified that the most prominent problem related
to steel structure application is the problem of steel price escalation where
cost effective is identified to be the least prominent benefit of steel structure
application. The steel price also identified to be the main problem related to
steel structure application where the respondents specified it as expansive.
 63

(ii) Structural problem

The structural problems investigated in the study are corrosion, material
fatigue, brittle fracture, buckling and lack of reserve strength. The result
analyses have shown that there are two structural problems which are quite
prominent in the application of steel structure. The problems are corrosion
and material fatigue. As a whole, structural problem is not the main problem
related to steel structure application.

(iii) Production problem

The production problems investigated in the study are shortfall supply, lack
of standardization and transportation. The shortfall supply is identified to be
the most prominent problem of steel production. The result analysis also
showed that the problems of lack of standardization and transportation are
not the main concern in the production problem.

(iv) Lack of knowledge and experience

The result analysis have shown that the factors causing unpopularity of steel
structure application is due to the problem of local construction industry
players having lack of knowledge and experience of steel construction.

As a conclusion, the problems related to steel structure application is mainly

due to high application cost which is subjected to expansive price and price
escalation of steel. The steel application in the local construction industry also
identified to be limited mainly due to lack of knowledge and experience of steel
construction.
 64

6.2.3 Objective 3- To identify the strategy to promote steel application in IBS

There are many strategies identified from the results analyses. However, the
analyses from the result have shown that emphasis should be given more to equip
the local construction industry players with knowledge, skill and exposure of the
steel application. As a conclusion, the strategies identified are as follow.

(i) Exposure to the benefits of steel application

Steel structure has various benefits which can be taken advantage of in
the implementation of IBS. The exposure of the benefits of steel
application to the local construction industry players will equip them
with more confidence in the application of steel structure in IBS and
equip them with more solutions of steel application in IBS.

(ii) Develop awareness programs

Awareness programs help the local construction industry players to be well
acquaintance with knowledge of steel application in IBS. It will help them to
see the strength of steel application in IBS thus expand their alertness of the
advantage of steel application in IBS. The awareness programs should cover
the awareness towards technology of steel application in IBS.

(iii) Develop training scheme

Training scheme give the local construction industry players the opportunity
to further enhances their understanding regarding steel application in IBS. It
will expand and reinforce their construction skill of steel application in IBS.
 65

(iv) More projects that emphasize usage of structural steel

Increase number of projects using structural steel opens up more
opportunities for the local construction industry players to be involved in
and expose to steel construction. As a result it will equip the local
construction industry players with experience of steel construction and open
more opportunities for gaining knowledge for steel application as well.
Besides that, it will increase demand for steel structure application in the
local construction industry
 66

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Ahmad Baharuddin Abd. Rahman and Wahid Omar (2006). Issues and Challenges
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Alexander Newman (2004) Metal Building System, Design and Specification.

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Manual. McGraw-Hill Inc. pp 276-277,331-335,
 67

Guo-Qiang Li and Jin-Jun Li (2007) Advanced Analysis and Design of Steel Frames.
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Hal Iyengar (1993) Tall structures. Alan Blanc, Michael Mc Evoy and Rodger Plank
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Industrialized Building System (IBS) Roadmap 2003-2010.2003. Construction

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Ir. Shaari Shahrul Nizar (2005). Serdang Hospital-IBS Hybrid of Pre-Cast Concrete
and Steel Structures. IBS Digest, ISBN 983-2724-29-5 pp 6-7

Jack C. McCormac (1995) Structural Steel Design LRFD Method. HarperCollins

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Roger Plank and Anthony Gregson (1993) Composite flors and structures. Alan
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 68

R. Taggart (1993) Fabrication and erection. Alan Blanc, Michael Mc Evoy and
Rodger Plank (Ed). Architecture and construction in steel. (pp. 335, 340) E&FN
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Zoltn Agcs, Jezry Ziko, Josef Vicn and Jn Brodiansky (2005) Assessment and
Refurbishment of Steel Structures. Spoon Press. pp 25-53
 69

APPENDIX A
QUESTIONNAIRE SURVEY FROM
 70

UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MALAYSIA

FACULTY OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

THE USE OF STEEL STRUCTURE IN THE
INDUSTRIALIZED BUILDING SYSTEM

Objective of study:
To identify the extend of steel structure usage in Malaysia

To identify the problem related in the application of steel structure.

To identify the strategy to promote steel application in the industrialized

building system

Thank you for your corporation.

 71

Section A : Companys background

Instruction : Please thick at the box provided

Type of company:
[ ] Consultant [ ] Developer [ ] Contractor [ ] Supplier

Section B : Extend of steel structure usage

Instruction : Please thick at the box provided

Level of usage of steel structure (beams and columns only) in each of your
construction projects:

[ ] 0%-19% [ ] 20%-49% [ ] 50%-79% [ ] 80%-100%

1. Base on your experience, please rate the types of project that frequently utilize the
application of steel structure in Malaysia

Instruction: Please thick at the appropriate rating scale

Rating scale: (1) Least frequent (4) Frequent

(2) Less frequent (5) Most frequent
(3) Fairly frequent

I. Bridges (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)

II. High-rise building (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
III. Low-rise building (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
IV. Tunnels (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
V. Marine Structures (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
VI. Residential building (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
VII. Factories (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
VIII. Oil and gas offshore platform (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
IX. Commercial building (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
X. Power plants (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
XI. Others: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
 72

2. Base on your experience please rate the factors that influence selection of steel
structure for construction
Instruction: Please thick at the appropriate rating scale

Rating scale: (1) The least influencial (4) Influencial

(2) Less influencial (5) The most influencial
(3) Fairly influencial
I. Quality (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
II. Flexibility of design (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
III. Speed of construction (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
IV. Equipment/machinery required (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
V. Ease of erection/construction (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
VI. Cost saving (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
VII. Labor reduction (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
VIII. Labor cost (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
IX. Usage of skilled labor (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
X. wastages generated at site (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
XI. Site space (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
XII. Clients requirement (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
XIII. Others: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)

Instruction : Please thick at the box given.

Do you think that the steel applications in Industrialized building system (IBS) are
very limited?
[ ] Yes [ ] Not sure [ ] No
 73

Section C : Problem and benefits related to steel structure application

Instruction : Please thick at the appropriate rating scale
Please rate the problems that associated with steel structure application

Rating scale: (1) The least prominent (4) Prominent

(2) Less prominent (5) The most prominent
(3) Fairly prominent

I. Corrosion (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)

II. Material Fatigue (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
III. Brittle fracture (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
IV. Deformation due to high temperature (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
V. Lack of reserve strength (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
VI. Susceptibility to buckling (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
VII. Lack of standardization (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
VIII. Fire proofing cost (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
IX. Extreme price rise (escalation) (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
X. Shortfall (deficit) supply (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
XI. Transportation (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
XII. High maintenance cost (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
XIII. High labor cost (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
XIV. Others: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
 74

3. Please rate the benefits of steel structure application

Instruction : Please thick at the appropriate rating scale

Rating scale: (1) The least prominent (4) Prominent

(2) Less prominent (5) The most prominent
(3) Fairly prominent

I. Long term strength (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)

II. Fracture toughness (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
III. Flexible for building changes in use (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
IV. Design flexibility (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
V. Fast and simple construction/erection (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
VI. Quality finish (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
VII. Maximum floor space (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
VIII. Long spanning capability (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
IX. Light structure (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
X. Versatile (adaptable) (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
XI. High strength (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
XII. Usage of skilled labor (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
XIII. Less wastage (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
XIV. Cleaner site (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
XV. Cost effective (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
XVI. Others: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)

Instruction : Please thick at the box given.

4. Do you think that the steel applications in the industrialized building system (IBS)
give more benefit than problem?
[ ] Yes [ ] Not sure [ ] No
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Section D : Strategy to promote steel application in the Industrialized Building

System (IBS)

5. Base on your experience, please rate each of the following strategies to promote
the usage of steel structure in the industrialized building system (IBS) in
Malaysia?

Instruction : Please thick at the appropriate rating scale

Rating scale: (1) Totally Disagree (2) Disagree

(3) Moderately agree (4) Agree
(5) Totally Agree

I. Improving structural steel supply

system (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
II. Increase research and
development for structural steel usage (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
III. Develop awareness program
and training scheme for contractors (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
IV. Exposure to the benefits of steel
application (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
V. Increase numbers of steel manufacturer (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
VI. Reduce taxation for steel material(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
VII. Trained more skill labor in steelwork (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
VIII. Improve logistic services to support
structural steel supply system (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
IX. Develop awareness program of
the technologies of steel application (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
X. Encourage steel usage in public project (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
XI. Others: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)

Thank you for your corporation