Historical Aspects of Development of Metall Structures and Application Thereof in Buildings and Facilities

Brief history of development of metal structures and application thereof in various buildings and facilities starting from the 12th century and up to now is presented herein. "The metal structures" notion includes structural form, manufacturing technology and ways of installation. Evolution step in making metal structures is defined both by public needs therein and level and capabilities of technical facilities: development of metal industry, engineering technology, metalworking, construction machinery and science. Proceeding from this, five periods in metal structures evolution may be singled out. Development of industry and construction is shown to result in vast variety of metal structures to be applied nowadays in different buildings and constructions especially in significant spans, heights and loads. Therewith wide scientific R&D in engineering design with application of modern high-power PCs and CAD complexes, in particular, enable to efficiently upgrade and vary the structural form of facilities with less materials and resources expenses. In-depth and comprehensive analysis of centuries-old evolution of metals application in construction and implementation of investigation results in teaching high-skilled builders and architects of today will enable to efficiently provide staffing for successful solving of state challenges of hi-tech and social development of the Russian Federation.