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FAQ: Does Limitation 2 of AISI S220, Section A1.2.1, Conflict with Limitation 3?

The 100 lb/ft of superimposed axial load limitation No. 2 of AISI S220, Section A1.2.1, seems to conflict with limitation No. 3, but is that the case? Here’s the answer to this CFSEI FAQ.

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Each month, the Cold-Formed Steel Engineers Institute (CFSEI) publishes answers to questions about the design of cold-formed steel (CFS) framing, which it receives through its 1-800-79STEEL hotline. Here’s a recent CFSEI FAQ about AISI S220, Section A1.2.1.

CFSEI FAQ OF THE MONTH

CFSEI Hotline: 1-800-79STEEL

S220, Section A1.2.1

Question

I am struggling with limitation No. 2 of AISI S220, Section A1.2.1. Doesn’t limitation No. 2 — a 100 lb/ft of superimposed axial load, exclusive of sheathing material — negate limitation No. 3? 

AISI S220, Section A1.2.1

AISI S220, Section A1.2.1

Answer

The key to Section A1.2.1 limitations is that all the limitations must be met for a member to be considered nonstructural. Also, limitations 1 and 2 apply to systems, i.e., members in a wall system, whereas limitation 3 applies to each member only.

‘Limitations 1 and 2 apply to systems … limitation 3 applies to each member.’

So, it would be okay to support a piece of equipment that is 300 lbs if the load is distributed over the length of the wall and no individual member was assigned to support more than 200 lbs.

Limit 2 applies most often when interior partitions are supporting ceilings or floors from above. This discourages closely spaced nonstructural members used to support mezzanine floors.

1.800.79STEEL

If you have any cold-formed steel (CFS) questions, contact CFSEI experts online or call CFSEI Hotline at 1.800.79STEEL.

Read more CFSEI “FAQ of the Month” questions and answers here:

CFSEI FAQ OF THE MONTH

CFSEI Hotline: 1-800-79STEEL

 

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SFIA Receives ANSI Accreditation

On July 2, 2024, the Executive Standards Council of the American National Standards Institute, ANSI®, has approved the accreditation of the Steel Framing Industry Association (SFIA). As an ANSI-accredited standards development organization. SFIA assumes the management of certain cold-formed steel (CFS) framing standards previously managed by the American Iron and Steel Institute. These CFS standards will be governed by the newly formed SFIA Standards Committee and managed by SFIA Canvass Groups.

 

 

cold-formed steel engineering institute CFSEI

1-800-79STEEL

The CFSEI Hotline from the Cold-Formed Steel Engineers Institute receives inquiries about cold-formed steel (CFS) applications. Architects, engineers, building officials, students and contractors needing answers from respected experts can check “Ask an Expert” on the CFSEI website or call 1-800-79STEEL.

CFSEI is part of the Steel Framing Industry Association (SFIA), where its leadership as the industry’s key touchpoint for CFS design receives full support.

 

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