What is the difference between form deck and composite floor deck

Steel decking can be used for a variety of applications in construction. Composite floor deck and  form deck, for example, are typically used for applications in flooring. While both can be used for flooring systems, it is important to choose the right type for your project.

In this guide, we will discuss the differences in the two types of steel deck.

Composite floor deck is using the steel beams to be connected with the concrete floor slabs. It utilizes the advantage of both steel and concrete.  Composite floor deck has embossments designed to interlock with concrete slabs. The combination of floor deck and concrete serves the dual purpose of permanent form and positive reinforcement.Therefore, it is more cost-effective form of construction.

Steel form deck

Steel form deck serves as a permanent steel base for poured, reinforced concrete floor slabs.Unlike composite floor deck, it does not have embossment. Additionally, instead of being interlocked within the concrete, steel form decking can not work together with concrete to jointly bear the later load.Steel form deck only assumes the role of the formwork during the construction phase, supporting the self-weight of the concrete and the construction load. When the concrete solidifies, the steel form deck will quit working.

Composite floor deck

Composite floor deck is composed of steel deck and concrete. Steel floor deck has embossments designed to interlock with concrete slabs. The composite floor deck not only bears the self-weight and construction load of the concrete during the construction stage, but also suppors the role of resisting the bending moment during the use stage of the floor slab.

In generally , Steel form deck only works during the construction phase, while composite floor deck works both during the construction phase and the use phase. The steel floor deck and concrete form a composite floor.