Building Forward Together: A New Chapter for the SDS2 Summit
The SDS2 Summit is evolving. For years, this user conference has been a vital hub for steel detailers and fabricators, fostering a strong community and sharing knowledge. Now, it’s taking a significant step forward, rebranding as Build Forward.
The new name, Build Forward, reflects an expanded mission and a shared vision. While the conference will still feature the same community-driven spirit, with engaging breakout sessions and networking opportunities, it will now welcome a broader audience from the entire ALLPLAN ecosystem. This includes professionals like precast concrete fabricators, rebar detailers, and civil and structural engineers, creating a truly inclusive event.
The name “Build Forward” was carefully chosen. “Build” speaks to the core of what ALLPLAN customers do—turning concepts into tangible reality and developing skills and relationships. “Forward” signifies the commitment to innovation, progress, and looking ahead to new challenges. This rebranding is about uniting diverse professionals with a shared goal: to innovate and build for the future.
The inaugural Build Forward conference will be held in Omaha, Nebraska, on October 15-16, 2025. Attendees are encouraged to participate in several ways, whether by attending, applying to present a breakout session, or submitting their projects to the newly expanded ALLPLAN Awards. These awards now include new categories for both individuals and teams, with the winners to be announced at the Customer Appreciation Banquet.
Whether you’re a long-time SDS2 user or new to the ALLPLAN family, Build Forward offers a unique opportunity to gain inspiration and ideas to put to work in your business and career. The Infra Group is looking forward to exhibiting and connecting with you. Register here!
Modern fabrication demands more than just steel, it demands precision, speed, and integration. That is why we have equipped our facilities with state-of-the-art KINETIC Cutting Systems, bringing advanced plate processing to a new level of precision and efficiency across our national footprint.
These advanced multi-function machines combine plasma and oxy-fuel cutting with drilling, tapping, milling, beveling, machining and part marking, all in a single setup. The result?
Clean, accurate cuts with tight tolerances, reduced handling time, and faster turnarounds for even the most complex jobs.
What sets our Kinetic systems apart?
Drilling + Milling + Plasma in one pass
Automated part handling and nesting
Handles thick and thin plate with ease
Ideal for OEMs, shipyards, fabricators, and heavy industry applications
Nationwide, our plate processing capabilities are ready to support your next project, whether it is structural components, heavy machinery bases, or custom fabricated assemblies.
We are more than just a steel distributor, we are your processing partner, committed to helping you streamline production, lower costs, and deliver quality with confidence.
Let’s talk about how our Kinetic-equipped facilities can support your workflow!
North America’s premier event returns to Chicago, IL for metal forming, fabricating, welding, and finishing and will convene at McCormick Place from September 8-11 2025. FABTECH offers a comprehensive platform to connect with global industry leaders, explore cutting-edge technologies, and discover innovative solutions to optimize productivity, enhance profitability, and address your metalworking challenges.
With over 850,000 square feet dedicated to the latest manufacturing equipment, this event is your one-stop destination to discover groundbreaking innovations tailored to your specific applications and industries.
Join Delta Steel and The Infra Group at booth #A3399 for several days filled with innovation and most importantly, Steel!
We are committed to advancing the future of structural steel processing through strategic investment and innovation.
One of our key investments is in the Voortman Steel Machinery V807 , a game-changing technology that allows for high-speed, high-precision robotic plasma cutting, drilling, and coping, all in one pass. This technology supports our customers with faster turnaround, tighter tolerances, and reduced fabrication time on structural projects.
We have installed these advanced beam lines across multiple Infra Group locations, ensuring our customers nationwide benefit from this high-performance capability. These investments are part of our strategic push into new and emerging markets, from data centers and modular construction to heavy infrastructure, OEMs, shipyards, and renewable energy.
But what truly sets our processing apart is our people. Each location is staffed with experienced operators and CNC programmers who know how to get the most out of this cutting-edge equipment. Their deep knowledge, attention to detail, and commitment to quality are exactly why our customers trust us with their most complex steel processing needs.
At The Infra Group, we are not just moving steel, we are moving the industry forward!
Metal beams, sometimes called rolled steel joists (RSJ), provide structure, strength, and rigidity in buildings and structures, but different applications and static loads require different types of beams. Knowing which beam to choose is critical to the integrity and safety of the finished building.
Two common beam types are I-beams and wide flange, or W-beams. These two configurations are similar in shape (i.e., both have cross-sections that resemble a capital letter I or H), and both consist of a long, flat central member called the web, which is centered on a flange on each long side. The width of the web and flanges is variable, as is the thickness and shape, or taper, of the flanges. These differences in design affect how they are used. Here we’ll take a closer look at I-beams and W-beams, and compare how their differences make them suitable for different applications.
Understanding I-Beams
I-beams are widely used for framing buildings in both vertical and horizontal directions, as studs or joists. They are commonly made from structural steel, though 6061 aluminum can also be used for some applications.
These beams typically have flanges that are tapered, with a thicker portion on the end that attaches to the web and a thinner portion at the outer edge. As a result, the flanges are not quite parallel to each other and not quite perpendicular to the web.
Generally, I-beams work best for lower-weight applications compared to W-beams. I-beams are generally suitable for supporting spans from 30 to 100 ft, and are generally available in lengths up to 60 ft. Some common applications include:
Bridges
Hospitals
Parking garages
Skyscrapers
Understanding W-Beams
W-beams, or wide flange beams, often have a much wider web or flanges than I-beams. Their flanges are also a uniform thickness and not tapered. As a result, the flanges are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the web. Like I-beams, W-beams come in a variety of widths and thicknesses of webs and flanges. While W-beams can be used for spans up to 300 ft., though they are generally manufactured in 70-ft. lengths to limit waste.
The wider web and flanges allow these beams to support more weight, and they are often used in large-scale structures and equipment, including:
Bridges
Large buildings
Trailers, flatbed hauling vehicles, and material handling equipment
I-Beams vs. W-Beams: A Comparison
Both of these beams are widely used in construction and heavy equipment projects because their design carries heavy loads reliably. Generally speaking, I-beams are lighter weight and may be easier to transport, handle, and move; however, they have a lower overall span and support capacity. Here’s a breakdown of how these two types of beams compare.
Shape and Design
Both I-beams and W-beams have the same basic design; however, I-beams tend to have a web that is wider than the flanges, and the flanges are tapered. W-Beams often have wider flanges and may have a wider web as well. W-beam flanges are not tapered.
Weight
Steel W-beams generally weigh more than I-beams because they use wider flanges and, sometimes, are longer. Depending on the application, I-beams can be made from aluminum instead of steel, making them even lighter.
Span
I-beams generally support loads across shorter spans than W-beams. Depending on their dimensions and configuration, I-beams can be used for spans of 30-100 ft., where W-beams are more flexible and can be used for spans up to 300 ft.
Strength
W-beams tend to have higher overall strength because of their web-to-flange ratio, thickness, and welded construction. As a result, they can support heavier loads across longer spans without reinforcement. In contrast, I-beams can carry heavier loads compared to their smaller size, and may be able to resist buckling better than W-beams.
Bend Resistance
Because of their wide flanges, W-beams tend to have higher resistance to bending forces than I-beams. Flange width is the major factor in the ability to resist bending.
Learn More With Delta Steel
Choosing the right beams for every construction application is critical to the stability, longevity, and safety of the completed structure. At Delta Steel, we’re committed to delivering high-quality steel beams for a range of industry applications, and we maintain locations and distribution centers across the US to accomplish it.
Contact us to learn more about our I-beam and W-beam selection, or request a quote to get your project started.
Steel is a high-strength material comprised of carbon and iron. This metal alloy has several key properties that differentiate it from other types of metal materials, such as:
High melting point at or above 2500 degrees F.
An average density of around 7.85kg/m-3, in which this value is a widely accepted standard for various types of steel used in structural engineering.
Easy deformation with increased shape memory, depending on the alloy.
Steel comes in different grades, with each offering varying elasticity, hardness, ductility, and strength based on the kind of treatment applied during fabrication. Below, learn about the key role steel plays in bridge construction and how it can enhance the overall durability, longevity, and sustainability of various projects.
Why Use Steel for Bridge Construction?
The following are some of the main advantages that make steel a preferred material choice for bridge construction projects:
Superior Strength
Steel structure bridges frequently use this material for its high strength-to-weight ratio. Steel bridges can span long distances and resist physical impacts or disturbances, making them a go-to choice for areas prone to extreme conditions or weather events. Additionally, steel components can withstand heavier loads without contributing large amounts of weight to the overall structure. As a result, bridges benefit from lower construction expenses and increased sustainability in their installation and transportation.
High Longevity and Durability
Steel also provides optimal durability, which is critical for building long-lasting structures. Bridges that utilize these materials can hold up better under exposure to heavy traffic, seasonal changes, and other anticipated conditions. With regular maintenance, they can last for decades following initial construction, making them more cost-effective compared to structures constructed with less reliable materials.
Innovative Designs
Steel’s versatility and weldability allow engineers to develop bridge designs that are both visually appealing and innovative. For example, the material’s superior malleability makes it suitable for forming nearly any shape, leading to structures that complement the surrounding architecture and landscape while providing the necessary support.
Sustainability Matters
Environmental impact is an increasingly critical consideration in the construction of bridges. This need is another reason why steel is such a popular material in these applications; its durability decreases overall impact and reduces the need for raw materials, making for a more environmentally friendly solution compared to other materials. Further, steel bridges can be constructed with recycled steel and can also be adapted over time, ensuring they serve future generations.
Local Impact
Local communities benefit from the use of steel structure bridges in a number of ways. For example, steel bridge construction creates job openings in fabrication, manufacturing, and construction. Subsequently, communities can see more economic growth when erecting these structures. The final construction also facilitates ease of transportation, smoother traffic, and increased accessibility to improve the lives of the general populace.
Steel for Bridge Construction at Delta Steel
If you’re looking for high-quality steel materials for building steel bridges or other types of infrastructure, Delta Steel is here to help. We have a long history as a leading provider of structural steel materials, beginning in 1963. Since then, we’ve served customers across a range of industries both nationally and internationally, with strategically located facilities that help us manage all of our operations in-house. Our many products include steel tubes, plates, wide flange beams, bars, channels, angles, and more.
Request a quote from us today to discover how our products and services can help you develop durable, lasting structures.
Material choice is a major factor in the construction industry, as this can significantly impact the sustainability, longevity, and success of your project. Two commonly used materials in modern building construction and infrastructure work are structural steel and reinforced concrete, which provide reliable strength in various settings. However, if you’re looking to build the strongest, safest, and most sustainable structure, consider working with structural steel, which offers unmatched durability and longevity. Keep reading to learn about a few of the advantages of using structural steel in construction work.
Strength and Load-Bearing Capacity
Perhaps the biggest advantage of structural steel is its strength. This material can support extremely heavy loads, with a yield stress of 50,000 pounds per square inch in both tension and compression. Additionally, while 36,000-50,000 psi is considered ordinary tensile strength for structural steel, it can reach up to 58,000-70,000 psi. This makes it ideal for large-scale construction projects like:
Skyscrapers
Bridges
Stadiums
Overpasses
In fact, structural steel’s high strength-to-weight ratio has made it a top material in building construction and infrastructure work.
Durability and Longevity
Structural steel is also known for its longevity. Unlike other construction materials, structural steel won’t shrink, rot, or succumb to damage from pests. This makes it a superior option for various building projects.
Structural steel is also an extremely durable material. It can maintain its strength in heavy rains and harsh winds without cracking, shrinking, or warping. Thanks to its excellent ductility, structural steel can even withstand extreme weather events such as earthquakes, fires, and other natural disasters, ensuring structures remain secure and stable.
Cost-Effectiveness
While numerous factors can influence the overall cost of building or infrastructure projects, material costs are critical to consider. Structural steel is often built to exact specifications, which can save you money while minimizing material loss. Larger projects can often also realize economies of scale to lower the per-square-foot cost of materials.
In many cases, using structural steel can streamline construction projects. Components using this material allow for quick onsite assembly, which can help reduce labor requirements and associated costs.
Sustainability and Environmental Benefits
Structural steel buildings can meet energy efficiency and sustainability goals. With appropriate insulation, they can drastically lower heating and cooling expenses for a lower carbon footprint. Structural steel’s inherent durability and recyclability further its eco-friendly appeal. Nearly all steel can be recycled and reused in new steel materials and components, which helps minimize emissions and overall environmental impact.
For maximum benefit, you can incorporate 100% recycled structural steel into your project, reducing waste while lowering maintenance and operational costs.
Structural Steel at Delta Steel
Structural steel is a dependable option for commercial and residential structures due to the enhanced strength, durability, and sustainability it provides. If you’re starting a commercial building project and are considering making structural steel your building material of choice, consider partnering with Delta Steel. As a premier structural steel provider, we can provide all of the steel products you need for your project, including structural steel plates, channels, I-beams, and more. We are committed to delivering quality materials that meet your unique needs at a price you can afford.
Feel free to contact us today for more information about our structural steel capabilities as well as to request a quote for your project.
Steel is vital to modern construction, from multi-story buildings to public transportation infrastructure. The material can be 100% recycled repeatedly without losing its beneficial properties, contributing to resource conservation and global sustainability. Structural steel fabricators are responsible for transforming various structural steel profiles, each of which has unique applications.
Learn more about the main stages of the structural steel fabrication process, the different fabrication techniques, and their common applications.
Key Stages of Steel Fabrication
A structural steel fabricator is a company that specializes in turning raw steel into finished structural steel parts. Starting with raw steel beams, plates, or columns, fabricators transform them into specific sizes and shapes using various processing methods, such as welding, bending, cutting, and assembling. The required processing techniques depend on the construction project’s engineering specifications and drawings. Fabricators also ensure that all steel components meet strict safety and quality standards.
Here is an overview of the six key steps to structural steel fabrication:
Design and planning. The first stage is to develop engineering specifications and drawings outlining the exact dimensions and requirements of the structural steel parts. A bill of materials (BOM) is also created, listing all the steel components needed to complete the project. At the same time, the project plan budgets, schedules, and determines the required resources and equipment.
Material acquisition. Fabricators procure the necessary steel plates, columns, beams, and other raw materials from various suppliers.
Fabrication. Fabrication most commonly comprises cutting, drilling, bending, and welding. Using plasma cutters, circular saws, or other cutting equipment, structural steel fabricators cut the steel to specific sizes and shapes. Holes are drilled if the drawings call for bolts or other fasteners. Fabricators use plate bending and roll bending to bend steel to design specifications. Joining components together to create the final assembly, fabricators utilize robotic welding and assembly machinery.
Quality control. Verifying that the steel components meet the necessary specifications, fabricators perform visual inspections, dimensional inspections, and non-destructive testing (NDT) to identify hidden defects.
Finishing. The steel components are sandblasted to remove any surface impurities and prepare the parts for future processing. These finishing processes include painting or corrosion-resistant coating application.
Delivery and installation. Structural steel fabricators transport finished steel products for customers to use on various construction sites. There, the components are typically assembled using rivets or bolts.
The main factors that contribute to a successful fabrication project include:
Experienced, certified fabricators
Using advanced technology and equipment
Accurately interpreting engineering drawings
Strictly complying with quality standards
Advanced Steel Fabrication Techniques
Structural steel fabrication consists of many different forming techniques to create intricate three-dimensional products for virtually any application. These advanced techniques can add more value and long-term performance to structural steel components.
Cutting
Cutting tools cut steel sections, plates, and channels based on the thickness of the metal. Cutters can cut raw metal stock into the right dimensions for different projects. Some common types of cutting equipment are band saws, plasma cutters, and oxy-fuel cutters.
Welding
Welding processes—such as MIG, TIG, and tungsten arc welding—can permanently join multiple steel pieces into a single unit.
Bending
Fabricators bend flat structural steel stock via roll bending, plate bending, section bending, or tube bending. These processes create angles or curves according to the component’s design specifications.
Forming
Similar to bending, forming uses press brakes and other machinery to change two-dimensional pieces of metal into three-dimensional forms without removing or adding material. Structural steel fabricators can use forming and welding together to create oversized steel sheets.
Machining
Machining processes are subtractive—they cut away or remove excess material to create a new shape. Examples of machining processes include drilling and grinding, which can be done with portable tools or at stationary CNC machining centers.
Coating
Structural steel fabrications benefit from protective coatings like primers or zinc galvanization to prevent corrosion. Fabricators can also apply specialty paints for aesthetics and protection from moisture.
Quality Check
This final process includes thorough inspections to guarantee product quality before the components go out to customers.
Applications of Steel Fabrication
Structural steel fabricators play a vital role in construction, supplying the frameworks and foundations for a variety of applications:
Infrastructure and road construction, including bridges and overpasses
Architectural facades
Energy and mining applications
Transportation, including trains and vehicles
Industrial and civil projects
Utilities
Distribution warehouses
Learn More About Steel Processing From Delta Steel
Structural steel fabrication is essential for everything from breaking ground on new infrastructure projects to creating structural components for cars and appliances. Partnering with a high-quality structural steel fabricator can make all the difference in your next industrial or construction project.
At Delta Steel, we’re committed to providing comprehensive structural steel fabrication products across the United States through our network of distribution centers. We have over 60 years of experience as a one-stop supplier, serving multiple major industries with innovative steel processing capabilities. Request a quote to get started on your project.
For years, you’ve relied on the expertise and quality of Infra-Metals, Delta Steel, and Sugar Steel – trusted names in the structural steel industry. Today, we’re excited to announce a unifying brand that brings these powerhouses together under one umbrella: THE INFRA GROUP.
Think of The Infra Group as the name that signifies the collective strength and reach of these established companies. It’s the mark of a powerful network, connecting Infra-Metals, Delta Steel, and Sugar Steel to offer an unparalleled level of service, inventory, and expertise, making The Infra Group your single-source solution for all your structural steel needs. Each company continues to operate with its own specialized knowledge and customer relationships, now enhanced by the resources and reach of the entire group.
What does this mean for you?
Simply put, it means more access, more resources, and more solutions. As The Infra Group, we offer:
Unmatched Inventory: With over 200,000 tons of steel readily available across our 14 locations spanning New England, the Mid-West, Mid-Atlantic, Southeastern, and Southwestern United States, we can fulfill your orders quickly and efficiently, minimizing downtime and keeping your projects on track.
Best-in-Class Processing: Our state-of-the-art, first-stage processing capabilities ensure that your steel is prepared to your exact specifications, saving you time and money.
Comprehensive Services: From Blast & Prime, Cambering, Drilling, Forming, Milling, Plate Burning, Robotic Coping, Saw Cutting and T-Splitting, The Infra Group offers a complete range of services to handle every aspect of your project.
Cutting-Edge Technology: We invest and leverage the latest technologies to optimize our processes, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and the highest quality results.
Next-Day Delivery: In many areas, our extensive network enables us to offer next-day delivery, getting the materials you need when you need them.
Unparalleled Expertise: Our combined team of industry veterans brings decades of experience to the table, providing expert guidance and support throughout your project.
Our Reach, Your Advantage:
Our strategically located facilities across the country mean we can serve you better than ever before. Whether your project is local or national, The Infra Group has the reach and resources to meet your demands.
Looking Ahead:
The formation of The Infra Group represents a significant investment in our future and, more importantly, in your success. We are committed to providing the highest quality products, exceptional service, and innovative solutions that you’ve come to expect, now all under one powerful brand.
We’re excited about this new chapter and look forward to continuing to serve you as The Infra Group – your partner in structural steel solutions.
Returns this year to Louisville, KY April 2-4 at the Kentucky International Convention Center. The Steel Conference is the premier event for steel industry professionals seeking actionable insights and game-changing innovations.
It’s a unique opportunity to connect with peers and explore the latest advancements impacting the design and construction landscape. This dynamic event offers a comprehensive experience, including:
Extensive Technical Sessions: With over 270 sessions, attendees gain valuable knowledge and practical skills. In-person participants can earn up to 16 Professional Development Hours (PDHs), with the potential to earn an additional 4 PDHs by attending a specialized short course on Tuesday.
The Exhibition Hall: Discover cutting-edge products and services from over 300 exhibitors. This vibrant showcase provides a firsthand look at technologies and solutions empowering better steel design and construction practices.
Unparalleled Networking Opportunities: Connect with more than 6,000 industry leaders, including top designers, leading fabricators, and renowned researchers at the forefront of steel innovation. This is a prime opportunity to build valuable relationships and foster collaboration.
This year’s conference also features several co-located events, further enriching the experience:
World Steel Bridge Symposium
QualityCon
NISD Detailing Conference
SafetyCon
Architecture in Steel
SSRC’s Annual Stability Conference
This integrated approach provides attendees with unparalleled access to a diverse range of expertise and perspectives within the steel industry.
Be Our Guest
Download a complimentary VIP exhibit hall pass! Connect with us at Booth #801. The pass allows free entrance to the exhibit hall on Thursday, April 3, and Friday, April 4.
Modern fabrication demands more than just steel, it demands precision, speed, and integration. That is why we have equipped our facilities with state-of-the-art 
