Cold Form Shapes - Field Measurements

[skibuf23]

Hello folks,

In a few day's I will be heading into the field to get measurements for a custom fabricated cold form long-span roof joist (fabricated sometime in the 1950's). The shapes of the top and bottom cord are a bit odd. In keeping with the nomenclature of the current ANSI Cold-Formed Steel Design Manual I would describe the cord members as unequal angles with unequal lips.

Anyway, thought this would be a good opportunity to ask if anyone has some innovative techniques for getting easy, yet accurate measurements (particularly for shapes with bends). Otherwise I plan on heading out with our usual tool kit: measuring tape, micrometer, straight edge...

Thanks, looking forward to hearing some ideas.

 

[dik]

I usually use digital/dial gauge vernier calipers because of the 'wide' opening... typically can measure 6" dimensions and can measure to 0.001, usually. That and a tape or laser distance device.

Dik

 

[fegenbush]

I would add a radius gauge and a weld fillet gauge to your tool kit. I also have a decent digital camera in mine, but I consider that optional.

 

[MiketheEngineer]

Yep - dik and Fegen have it about right. Also add a plain tape measure for the bigger dimensions.

Lots of good pictures always help and you can even photo your measurments as you take them!!

 

[skibuf23]

Thanks for the comments guys,

Typically others in my office bring tape, caliper/ micrometer, magnetic level, camera of course (gotta love cell phones with built in cameras/ flash light apps). The radius gauge is a great suggestion, I know it would be used frequently.

 

[hvacpiper]

3D Laser scan,suprisingly cheap now-a-days..