Why is drilling and tapping a steel column for air terminals discouraged?

Drilling and tapping a steel column for air terminals is discouraged primarily because it makes replacement difficult. When modifications are made to a structural steel column, such as drilling holes, the structural integrity may be compromised, and replacing the air terminals after installation can become a complicated process.

In the event that an air terminal needs to be changed or maintained, having drilled and tapped holes can pose significant challenges. These may include difficulties in aligning new terminals or ensuring that the replacement work does not further compromise the integrity of the column. Additionally, restoring the column to its original condition or making it compliant with safety and engineering standards could require more work and time, which complicates maintenance procedures.

While the other options touch on valid points, they do not capture the primary issue that the difficulty of replacement poses. For instance, weakening the steel is indeed a concern, but it’s not the foremost reason for discouraging drilling. Similarly, while standards might discuss best practices for installation, the main challenge revolves around the practicalities of future maintenance. Lastly, while costs might increase due to potential damage or additional maintenance, the fundamental issue remains the operational challenges encountered during replacement.