Design of Steel Structures, 2e, 2nd Edition

12

Light Gauge Steel Sections

(A design based on working stress method)

12.1 INTRODUCTION

Light gauge sections are also known as cold formed steel sections. These sections are made from thin sheet of uniform thickness without application of heat. The thickness of sheet used is generally between 1 mm and 8 mm. These type of sections are extensively used in building industry as purlins, girts, light struts, roof sheeting, and floor decking etc. These sections become economical for light loads and to form useful surfaces such as roof covering, wall panels etc. Nowadays, these are widely used, especially, in pre-engineered steel buildings.

These sections are manufactured primarily by two processes. The first process is by ‘cold rolling’. In this ...