Metal stud size for 3" round cut-outs

[PagoMitch]

Have a client who needs to run an insulated 3/4" condensate pipe (OD 2 7/8") a dozen feet or so within a 6", non bearing, 9ft height metal stud wall. I need an opening 3" round to run the pipe.

Most stud suppliers I've found limit knockout sizes to something around 1 1/2" square, or 3/4" wide x 1 5/8" long.

Does any vendor offer this this service? Ie, "If you keep cut outs 24" from ends, use a 10g reinforcement ring on both sides, you can cut an opening 3" diameter" in our 2x8, 18 g studs", or something similar.

The pipe is sloped at 1/4"/ft, so the opening would not be at the same height in each stud; that's why the openings need to be field applied.

The other option is to build a pair of 2x4 stud walls, with the pipe gap in the middle. But I would rather not lose the space.

 

[MiketheEngineer]

If its non-bearing - where is the problem... Could go to a 2x8 stud or turn a 2x4 stud perpendicular to the original 2x6 studs fro added support.

 

[tngolfer]

It could be a problem if it is an exterior wall and supports wind loading.

 

[DaveAtkins]

Perhaps the easiest solution is to cut each stud on one side at the location of a punched opening, install the conduit, then put a 16 GA or heavier strap on the cut flange to restore the flange.

I think the 1-1/2" X 4" punched opening is standard.

DaveAtkins