Before understanding the difference between open-rib decking and cellular decking, let's first understand what open-rib decking and cellular decking are.

Open-rib deck steel decking, also known as open-rib deck profiled steel sheet, is an important supporting product for steel structure buildings. It is made of galvanized sheet through rolling and cold bending. It is mainly used as permanent formwork, but can also be selected for other uses.

Cellular decking adds shear grooves to the surface of the existing steel decking. Through the encapsulation of concrete, the two share the load, increasing the strength of the steel decking. This not only makes the steel decking and concrete a unified whole but also saves some tensile steel reinforcement.

I. Comparison of the shapes of open-rib deck and cellular deck

The back of a cellular decking is flat, while the back of an open-rib decking is corrugated, making construction more complex. The primary difference lies in the load-bearing strength of the decking after molding. Secondly, cellular decking has a flat bottom after molding, facilitating secondary construction, while open-rib decking has an open, convex shape at the bottom, affecting aesthetics and complicating construction.

There are many types of open-rib decking, and it is frequently used in actual engineering construction. The core advantage of open-rib decking is its low price and high cost-effectiveness.

II. Comparison of installation between open-rib deck and cellular deck

1. open-rib decking has sealed ends to prevent grout leakage from the bottom opening when pouring concrete, while closed-ended steel decking does not require sealing because the web is closed.

2. cellular decking completely reduces the amount of on-site steel reinforcement, reduces manpower input, and speeds up construction;

3. cellular decking is processed in the factory strictly according to the design layout drawings. The order of the decking is numbered, and there is no need for cutting or patching on site, which is convenient for steel structure companies to install on site.

4. Because the bottom of cellular decking is flat, the top surface of the upper flange of the steel beam does not require fire-retardant coating. However, open-rib decking has a gap between it and the steel beam, which needs to be filled.

III. Fire Resistance of Open-Rib Decking and Cellular Decking

During installation and use, open-rib decking is usually considered as a permanent formwork, and the outside will be wrapped with reinforced concrete, which will require the application of fireproof material.

Cellular decking has passed fire resistance tests conducted by a nationally designated testing unit by the fire department. Furthermore, it does not require the application of fire-retardant materials, giving it a significant advantage.

IV. Construction Comparison of Open-Rib Decking and Cellular Decking

When constructing open-rib deck panels, sealing panels and baffles are required. During the concrete pouring process, grout leakage is likely to occur. In addition, steel bars need to be tied at the bottom of the panel, which increases the construction period. However, when constructing closed-type steel deck panels, only a baffle is needed, and sealing panels are not required. Grout leakage is less likely to occur on the construction site, and the time spent tying the steel bars at the bottom of the panel is saved.

Cellular decking is less prone to deformation during installation, while open-rib decking will have a lower height and a wider width during transportation and installation. The deformation must be adjusted during the installation process, otherwise the reduced height of the decking will affect the cross-sectional properties and cause construction accidents.

V. Economic Comparison of Open-Rib Decking and Cellular Decking

Cellular decking uses more steel than open-rib decking, so its cost is relatively higher. Although it has many advantages, the actual purchase should be based on the specific conditions of the project. Therefore, open-rib decking is also used very frequently.