CFS Drywall Studs

[BSVBD]

Clark-Dietrich's ProSTUD Drywall Framing Catalog provides Limiting Height Tables for the following:

1) Composite - Gypsum board full height on both sides.
2) Non-Composite, FULLY BRACED - Unbraced length is less than Lu.
3) Non-Composite, FULLY BRACED - Bracing spacing above gypsum is less than Lu.
4) Non-Composite, BRACED AT 48" o.c. - Gypsum board placed on only one side.

The G.C. wants a stud wall with vertical steel liner panel fastened to the studs with hat-channels.

After contacting Clark-Dietrich Tech Services Hotline for assistance, I was told that I could use any of the Non-Composite tables, without considering gypsum board on ANY side since one of the (foot) Notes states, "Heights are based on AISI S100-12... Nonstructural Members, using steel properties alone."

I understand, that, in the engineering, the steel properties alone, were used. But, that doesn't necessarily mean that the unbraced length was not controlled by the gypsum.

Then I stated, that, another one of the Notes states, "Above listed Non-Compostie Limiting Heights are applicable when the unbraced length is less than or equal to Lu." Therefore, if I have bracing at 48" o.c., how do I accomplish an unbraced length of less than or equal to Lu?

I was told that they will discuss with engineering and get back to me.

Any suggestions?

Are there other credible CFS drywall limiting heights references for studs WITHOUT gypsum board?

 

[XR250]

You can always use 20 ga structural studs and use blocking and x-bracing to brace them.

 

[Ron]

Sometimes you just have to use their material/section properties and gut through the engineering rather than depending completely on their tables. One size rarely fits all.