During more than ten years, there has been an increase in the use of cellular beams, both in metal structures and in exploring new structural solutions.

The use of cellular beams allows a new architectural expression. Structures are lightened and spans increased, pulling spaces together. This flexibility goes together with the functionality of allowing technical installations (pipes and ducts) to pass through the openings.

The lightweight appearance of cellular beams, combined with their high strength, never ceases to inspire architects to new structural forms.

Progress has now been made on a number of factors that enable the use of cellular beams to be extended:

• Manufacture

The optimisation of manufacturing methods (flame cutting, bending, etc.) now makes it possible to adapt to the requirements of project owners and guarantee rapid delivery of cellular beams.

• Standardisation

The Eurocodes (Eurocode 3 for steel structures and Eurocode 4 for composite structures) provide answers to the calculation of strength in normal use, for fire accident situations and with regard to the use of S460 high strength steel.

• Composite construction

The mastery of the various aspects of composite steel and concrete construction - making the bond, use of linked trays, floating plates, fire resistance, user comfort and durability – has greatly contributed to the “ACB® cellular beams” solution in floors.

• Design tools

The development of a high-performance design and calculation tool (ACB software), available to design offices and architects, favours the use of cellular beams. The methods adopted in this software exploit the results of tests on full-size beams and of many digital simulations.