mezzanine "point load" capacity

[pavvpk]

hi,

I was looking to determine maximum safe point load that can be applied on a mezzanine. Can you please help me by providing approximate hand calculation method or point me to a source where can I can find information relates to this.

I found following generic load spec for mezz floors.
"60 – 90 psf (minimum use – conveyors or maintenance with limited access) 125 psf (storage warehouse – light/light manufacturing) 250 psf (storage warehouse – heavy/heavy manufacturing)".

I am looking to calculate what is maximum point load of a load, lets say one leg of a storage rack, that can be installed on this mezz floor.

thanks,
pavvpk

 

[MotorCity]

There is no "one size fits all" equation for this. You will most likely need to check the flexure, shear, and deflection of the framing members and floor system (i.e. perform a structural analysis). The analysis will be specific to the particular arrangement of your mezzanine framing.

 

[Clerical Forensics]

I sencond what MotorCity says. A plywood floor over 2x's spaced at 16" o/c will yeild a far different capacity than a concrete metal deck over steel supports.

 

[TLHS]

Also, don't base your decision on a random specification you found unless you know that the thing you are looking at was built to it. Mezzanine floor capacities for area loads could be anything from 50psf (or even lower for weird specialty built things with severely restricted access) to several hundred depending on what it was built for, when it was built, and what the engineer thought was reasonable.

 

[pavvpk]

Thank you.

1. I was looking to find if there is any thumb rule people in the industry go by to relate psf and point loads. I totally understand that members spacing affects point load capacity but I guess code defines some of these parameters as well- to maintain certain Safety standards.I thought we would be able to roughly calculate based certain psf rating and certain spacing (or any other appropriate parameter).

2. I also request if you can refer any source to learn about calculating point load of a mezz floor. For example code reference, or book reference, etc .

Obviously any installation will be done only after reviewed by appropriate engineers and taking permits. This request is only for my knowledge.

I appreciate if you can provide any further info.

Thanks