Custom steel trusses
For projects where span, load-bearing capacity, and dimensions are critical, custom steel trusses are often the most logical structural choice. De Graaf Metaalwerken manufactures steel trusses that are fully tailored to the dimensions, load requirements, and design specifications of your project—whether it’s a new industrial building, a utility building, or a specific structural application. The trusses are not adapted from a catalog, but designed and manufactured based on the specific requirements of the project itself. From technical coordination in the engineering phase to production in our own workshop and on-site installation: everything is seamlessly integrated.
Designed for span and load
Steel trusses are used in situations where large spans are required without intermediate columns or support points. The dimensions, choice of profile, and structural design are determined on a project-by-project basis to ensure that the truss is suited to the actual load and the desired span.
Structurally strong, compact in design
A steel truss offers a favorable ratio between structural strength and the space it occupies. This makes it a practical choice for applications where roof structures or spanning surfaces must take up as little height as possible while still being structurally sound.
Suitable for both mass production and single-unit production
Custom steel trusses can be mass-produced for repeatable structures or manufactured as one-off pieces for specific applications. This makes them versatile for use in projects of varying sizes and complexities.
Applications of custom steel trusses
Custom steel trusses are used in a wide variety of projects, ranging from straightforward commercial spaces to more complex structural situations where span and load-bearing capacity must be precisely calculated. The appropriate design depends on the application, the intended span, the environment, and the structural interaction with other components.
Steel structures are suitable for:
- Roof structures for industrial buildings, warehouses, and storage facilities.
- Structural systems for commercial buildings and mechanical rooms.
- Spans for open floor areas without intermediate columns.
- Steel structures for the renovation or expansion of existing buildings.
- Specific support structures for industrial or engineering projects.
- Trusses that must connect to facade elements, precast concrete elements, or other structural components.
Custom steel trusses: why it makes a difference
When it comes to trusses, technical customization is not just about adjusting dimensions. It’s about the structural logic behind the choices: which profile types are suitable for the intended span, how are the connections to the support points designed, and how does the truss connect to the rest of the structure? These are questions that require different answers for each project, and for which a generic solution quickly falls short.
By having steel trusses custom-manufactured, you—as a client or contractor—can maintain greater control over the technical design. Tolerances, connection details, the assembly sequence, and coordination with other building components can then be incorporated at an early stage. This is particularly valuable in projects that involve multiple disciplines and where on-site details are critical to progress.
Steel trusses for sheds, warehouses, and commercial projects
In practice, steel trusses are most commonly used in situations where large, flexible spaces are required. Warehouses, industrial buildings, distribution centers, and utility buildings are typical examples, but custom steel trusses are also used in technical buildings or specific industrial setups. What all these applications have in common is that the structure must be both functional and reliable, under varying load conditions and in an environment where other parties depend on the timely and correct delivery of the steel components.
At De Graaf Metaalwerken, steel trusses are not manufactured in isolation from the project context. We actively contribute ideas regarding the connection to the foundation, the connection to columns or walls, the roofing, and any technical systems that will be attached to the structure. In this way, the truss becomes an integral part of the whole, not just a standalone product.
Connection as shown in the drawing and detail
Custom steel trusses are manufactured based on your drawings or in consultation with the engineering team. Connection plates, mounting points, cutouts, and structural details are incorporated into the design to ensure that the truss fits seamlessly with the rest of the structure on-site.d aansluit op het verdere werk.
Transparent planning and preparation
In projects involving steel trusses, preparation is key. By addressing dimensions, production, and delivery early in the process, it is easier to manage the overall project schedule.
Widely used in construction and industry
Custom steel trusses are suitable for a wide range of industries and situations. Whether it involves new construction, an expansion, or a specific structural modification, the design is tailored to the project’s requirements.
Custom steel trusses or a standard system
In some situations, a standard truss system offers an acceptable solution. But as soon as the dimensions deviate, the load falls outside standard ranges, or the structure must be adapted to specific details or existing construction, a standard solution quickly falls short. Customization then provides the flexibility to tailor the truss structurally and practically to the situation—without compromising on technical quality or on-site feasibility.
In addition, custom design offers greater flexibility in the detailing. Joints, connections, the positioning of secondary structural elements, and the integration with facades or roof structures can be worked out with greater precision. This results in fewer issues during installation and a final result that better aligns with the overall architectural or structural design of the project.
From design to installation of steel trusses
The process for custom steel trusses ideally runs from technical preparation through production to installation, with all steps seamlessly coordinated. De Graaf Metaalwerken can provide comprehensive support throughout this process: contributing ideas during the technical design phase, manufacturing in our own workshop, and providing on-site installation support. This combination of in-house engineering, manufacturing, and implementation experience allows us to respond quickly when necessary and to ensure quality control from design through to delivery.
This offers a practical advantage for clients, contractors, and project managers working with tight schedules or complex project environments. Instead of having to coordinate multiple parties, there is a single point of contact who oversees the entire process and can contribute technical expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions About Custom Steel Trusses
What is a steel truss?
A steel truss is a structural element used to support large spans, such as in the roof structures of industrial buildings, warehouses, or utility buildings. The truss connects two support points and thereby transfers the load from the roof structure to the foundation. Steel trusses come in various shapes and designs, depending on the application, span, and structural requirements.
When should you choose custom steel trusses instead of a standard system?
This makes sense whenever the project deviates from standard sizes or systems. Examples include specific spans, non-standard loads, special connection details, or a structure that needs to be integrated into an existing building. It is also worthwhile to have a custom solution developed based on the specific project requirements when the quality of the connection to other building components is critical to the final result.
What spans are possible with custom steel trusses?
That depends on the structural design, the type of profile used, and the load for which the truss is designed. Since this is a custom-made product, there is no fixed upper limit. The truss is calculated and manufactured based on the project’s specific requirements. During the technical planning phase, the span is determined in conjunction with the other structural parameters.
Hoe sluit een stalen spant aan op de rest van de constructie?
The connection is determined by the structural design of the project and specified in the engineering documentation. This includes connection plates, bolted joints, welded joints, or other fasteners. With custom-made steel trusses, one of the key advantages is that the connection details can be tailored to the specific project requirements.
Kan De Graaf Metaalwerken ook de montage verzorgen?
Installation may be part of the process, depending on the scope and structure of the project. Because engineering, production, and installation are closely coordinated at De Graaf Metaalwerken, there is a solid foundation for collaboration and on-site coordination during the implementation phase as well.
Are custom steel trusses also suitable for renovation or expansion?
Yes, definitely. In renovation or expansion projects, custom work is often particularly important, because the trusses must fit existing structures that rarely conform to standard dimensions. By tailoring the trusses entirely to the existing situation, installation becomes much easier and more reliable.
What about the scheduling for custom steel trusses?
Scheduling is discussed at an early stage to ensure that production and delivery align with the project timeline. Specific delivery times are tailored to the project situation and the available preparation time. De Graaf Metaalwerken operates with a transparent schedule and, depending on the situation, can also adapt to tight deadlines.
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Why De Graaf Metaalwerken?
Materials and engineering
We are highly versatile in this area. Thanks to our extensive knowledge and experience, we can use the most suitable material for every project. This means we always offer a sustainable, well-thought-out and high-quality solution, perfectly tailored to your needs. We also take care of all the engineering and drawing work for your project in-house.
Production and assembly
The production of your project is carefully handled using our modern machinery and with attention to safe & healthy working conditions. We work quickly, flexibly and with an eye for quality, so that your project is always delivered on time and according to plan. Our VCA-certified engineers can also take care of the entire installation process for you.
Complete peace of mind
We take care of your project from start to finish. Our specialists ensure that everything is carried out accurately, efficiently and safely, while you benefit from a single point of contact for the entire process. This means you can count on a hassle-free implementation, optimal quality and a project that is delivered on time and according to plan, without any surprises.
Quality & Certification
We work in accordance with recognised standards and have the necessary certifications, such as NEN-EN 1090-1, which allows us to issue the CE certificate for our construction work.
Please contact us
Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
De Graaf Metaalwerken B.V.
Gageldijk 2
3602 AL Maarssen
+3130 – 2613843
info@degraafmetaalwerken.nl
