Light Steel Framing
See also: Framing (construction)Thin sheets of galvanized steel can be formed into steel studs for use as a building material for rough-framing in commercial or residential construction (pictured), and many other applications. The dimension of the room is established with horizontal track that is anchored to the floor and ceiling to outline each room. The vertical studs are arranged in the tracks, usually spaced 16" apart, and fastened at the top and bottom.
The primary shapes used in residential construction are the C-shape stud and the U-shaped track, and a variety of other shapes. Framing members are generally produced in a thickness of 12 to 25 gauge. The wall finish is anchored to the two flange sides of the stud, which varies from 1-1/4" to 3" thick, and the width of web ranges from 1-5/8" to 14". Rectangular sections are removed from the web to provide access for electrical wiring.
Steel mills produce galvanized sheet steel, the base material for light-gauge steel. Sheet steel is then roll-formed into the final profiles used for framing. The sheets are zinc coated (galvanized) to prevent oxidation and corrosion. Steel framing provides excellent design flexibility due to the inherent strength of steel, which allows it to span over a longer distance than wood, and also resist wind and earthquake loads.
Steel framing is inherently less energy efficient than wood as it is a conductor. Construction with steel framing contributes to thermal bridges between the outside environment and interior conditioned space.
The spacing between studs is 16 inches on center for homes exterior and interior walls. In office suites the spacing is 24 inches on center for all walls except for elevator and stair wells.
Read more about this topic: Steel Frame
Famous quotes containing the words light, steel and/or framing:
“for beauty with sorrow
Is a burden hard to be borne:
The evening light on the foam, and the swans, there;
That music, remote, forlorn.”
—Walter De La Mare (1873–1956)
“There is a kind of strength that is almost frightening in black women. It’s as if a steel rod runs right through the head down to the feet.”
—Maya Angelou (b. 1928)
“In framing a government which is to be administered by men over men ... you must first enable the government to control the governed; and in the next place oblige it to control itself.”
—James Madison (1751–1836)