Introduction
In the world of metal construction, one of the most important – and often most undervalued – decisions is how structures are joined together. For decades, welding has been the traditional system. However, the evolution of the sector, the industrialization of processes and the need to reduce on-site errors have brought to the table an increasingly popular alternative: bolted metal structures.
In this article we take an in-depth look at the differences between welding and screwing, their real implications in terms of cost, time and quality, and why more and more professionals and individuals are opting for systems such as Starmodulwhere the structure is assembled as a precise and controlled system.
Welding in steel structures: a site-dependent system
The problem: labor variability
On-site welding has a major drawback: it is totally dependent on the operator and the environmental conditions. Welding in a controlled workshop is not the same as welding on site, exposed to humidity, wind, dust or lack of accessibility.
Some common problems with welded structures are:
- Differences in quality depending on the welder
- Risk of defective welds
- Need for reviews and corrections
- Difficulty in guaranteeing exact tolerances
- Increased execution time
In complex structures or housing, these factors can lead to project deviations, delays and cost overruns that are difficult to foresee.
Bolted steel structures: precision, control and system
The solution: precision manufacturing and assembly with no surprises
Starmodul’s bolted metal structures Starmodul completely changes the approach. Instead of being “fabricated on site”, the system is designed, calculated and machined in advance, ensuring that every joint fits perfectly.
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“A welded structure relies heavily on on-site labor. In contrast, Starmodul bolted structures are precisely fabricated and assembled as a system. The result is higher quality, fewer errors and much more controlled times.”
The main advantages of this system are:
- Seamless, 100% bolted joints
- Parts manufactured with millimeter accuracy
- Quick and clean assembly
- Drastic reduction of on-site errors
- Greater control of costs and deadlines
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Actual comparison: welding vs. screwing
What is the real difference?
| Appearance | Welded Structure | Starmodul Bolted Structure |
|---|---|---|
| Final quality | Variable | Constant and controlled |
| Operator dependence | Very high | Minimal |
| Assembly time | Long | Quick |
| Accuracy | Media | Very high |
| Possibility of disassembly | No | Yes |
| Cost control | Under | High |
This difference is especially important in houses, sheds, porches, pergolas and extensions, where the margin of error must be minimal.