Operable Partition Deflection Requirement 1

[STR04]

What is a reasonable deflection (vertical) requirement for operable (folding) partitions? I was told 1/8" by the architect which seems unreasonable for my 34' span (L/3264). Has anyone had sucess hanging from wood trusses?

http://www.alpeng.com/Special_Loads_On_Trusses__Folding_Partitions.html

TIA

 

[JAE]

Usually the partition manufacturer has requirements for deflection. Check with them.

The key would be the small gap between the floor and the bottom of the partition and what total deflection could be allowed.

Also, with curvature in deflection, the hinges between the partitions may be susceptible to binding.

But the architect is probably not the one to ask. Ask the manufacturer.

 

[STR04]

Thanks JAE. I found this on a manufacturer's website.

http://www.panelfold.com/Resources/Instructions/Pd DEFLECTION -pdf.pdf

 

[jike]

I would agree that the manufacturer is the one to ask for deflection criteria. We have done many folding partitions in gymnasiums and other long span situations but those folding partitions usually have an adjustable seal on the bottom. It all depends on the particular design of the folding partition and what was spec'd.

 

[csd72]

Can the door be folded up at mid span? If so then you need to check the total weight as a point load at mid span.

These criteria seem very stringent, most of the doors I have done were based on L/500 or 3/8" but it is always best practice to ask the manufacturer.

 

[bkgd]

make sure you check the stress and deflection for the parttion fully extended, 1/2 closed as well as 1/4 closed.