The Steeledale-F.B.E lattice beam decking system offers a number of advantages for a wide variety of applications from housing to high-rise buildings.

The system is simple to install thus reducing labour costs. The components form their own shuttering, also saving time an material costs.

Production facilities in Pinetown, George, Port Elizabeth, Bloemfontein and Cape Town ensure nationwide supply and installation of the system.

Based on a European concept in use for more than 50 years, it replaces conventional in-situ floor slabs. It requires no decking and minimal support work and is easily erected by unskilled labour.

Unlike pretensioned ribs, the lattice beam does not curve with the consequent difficulty in laying the blocks, and forms an excellent shear connection between the precast rib and the in situ topping.

The lattice girder is manufactured on sophisticated electronic welding machines from minimum 485 MPa yield strength high tensile wire of varying diameters, and to heights up to 250 mm to suit different applications. Minimum concrete cube strength of the rib is 25 MPa at 28 days.

Different types of material to suit local conditions may also be used to manufacture the blocks, but care must be taken to ensure adequate strength and safety during construction.

Note: Recess for stairwells, chimneys and other openings, as well as the joining of the lattice beam to solid concrete slabs, can be incorporated in the design.