Resistance of Slotted Steel Stud Top Track

[EngDM]

Hey all,

I've been looking through some manufacturers catalogues (namely Bailey) and they only provide the lateral load capacity where the load is applied by a single stud. Does anyone know the approach to determining the capacity for when the load is applied by a steel stud post with multiple ply's? I'm trying to determine whether or not the use of a clip from the steel stud directly into the steel beam above is necessary, or if the two screws will suffice.

Thanks

 

[jayrod12]

I believe their capacities are also based on stud spacing as well correct? I believe that you can use those capacities to back calculate a moment resistance of the track per foot of length. I'm fairly certain is is track leg bending that is the governing factor in their published loads.

 

[XR250]

My suspicion is that most point loads from windows or door jambs would require a separate deflection clip.

 

[phamENG]

My suspicion is that most point loads from windows or door jambs would require a separate deflection clip.

That's always my assumption. If the point load from the jamb is less than those single stud capacities, great. But it usually isn't. So I just specify an independent deflection clip with the required capacity (don't try to combine them - the stiffness is likely to be too different to make it meaningful).

 

[Celt83]

CFSEI has a good technote on the design of the deflection tracks: Link

As others already noted for jamb stud assemblies you usually end up needing to do a discrete deflection clip.

I'm making a thing:

http://www.thestructuraltoolbox.com

(It's no Kootware and it will probably break but it's alive!)

 

[EngDM]

Right, I usually do spec a clip but we've received shop drawings for steel studs from other engineers and they don't specify clips in situations that I believe they would be needed. I want to make sure I'm not adding an unnecessary cost to jamb studs (although the cost may be minor).