Choosing the Right C Purlins

C Purlin Span Table

One of the most crucial instruments in architecture is the purlin. This is a type of horizontal beam that supports a building's structure, usually the roof. Typically, the building's walls support the purlins themselves. Although they are frequently seen in metal buildings, they are also occasionally found in wooden-framed constructions. Purlins are available in many sizes and varieties. 

Building walls and roofs are supported by C-Purlin steel beams, a kind of structural steel. They come in a range of sizes and thicknesses and are formed like the letter "C". 

Usually composed of either cold-rolled or hot-rolled steel, C-Purlins are finished with a coating that resists corrosion. They can be utilized in many different building applications and are simple to install.

Overview

It is a long, horizontal beam that resembles the letter C, as implied by the name. Walls and floors are supported by the C purlin. It can be used for a variety of structures, including verandahs, industrial buildings, garages, and other constructions requiring strong, long-lasting steel framing. 

In addition, it is utilized in door framing, window trimming, and roof trimming. They have a homogeneous construction, making them easy to handle and allowing for increasing length. It offers dependable support and is simple to set up.

These are some benefits of C purlins.

  • There is no need to drill or cut on the side.
  • Sturdy and dependable
  • Reduced weight
  • Easy to install
  • Cheaper than structural steel

Choosing the Right Size

Purlins are available in different sizes and installation methods. The selection of the purlin will be influenced by these criteria. 

  • Single Span System: One purlin runs the entire length of the structure in a single span system.
  • Double Purlin Span System: The center and ends of two purlins are supported.
  • Double Lapped System: To add extra support, the two purlins slightly overlap in the middle.
  • Continuous Lapped: A sequence of identically spaced supporting purlins in the middle supports the purlins at both ends.

Once you understand the layout, consider the necessary number of purlins. Keep in mind that purlins are typically spaced 16 inches apart, which will affect the quantity needed. After determining the purlin system, it's time to select the appropriate purlin size. The available options are:

  • A 4-inch purlin can cover a span of 12 feet
  • A 6-inch purlin can cover a span of 18 feet
  • An 8-inch purlin can cover a span of 25 feet
  • A 10-inch purlin can cover a span of 30 feet

With this knowledge, measuring and choosing the appropriate purlin size should be simple. After that, they could be put in place and support the roof.

Bridging must be installed for all "Z" or "C" 100 purlins whenever they span more than two meters, for all 150 purlins whenever they span more than three meters, and for all 200, 250, and 230 purlins whenever they span more than four meters, while keeping in mind industry standards and fundamental safety recommendations.

150 C Purlin Span Table

Maximum Allowable Span for C/Z Purlins

Section

Wind Cats

Spacings

900

1200

1500

1800

No. of Bridging Rows

0

1

2

0

1

2

0

1

2

0

1

2

C150-12

TC1

5700

6100

6600

5000

5300

5700

4400

4700

5100

4000

4300

4700

TC2

6400

6800

7100

5600

5900

6400

5000

5300

5700

4500

4800

5200

TC2.5

6900

7100

7100

6100

6500

6700

5400

5800

6300

5000

5300

5700

TC3&4

7100

7100

7100

6700

6700

6700

6000

6400

6400

5500

5800

6200

C150-15

TC1

6200

6600

7200

5400

5700

6200

4800

5100

5600

4400

4700

5100

TC2

7000

7400

7900

6000

6400

7000

5400

5700

6200

4900

5200

5700

TC2.5

7600

7900

7900

6600

7000

7400

5900

6300

6800

5400

5700

6200

TC3&4

7900

7900

7900

7300

7400

7400

6500

6900

7100

5900

6300

6800

C150-19

TC1

7200

7600

8300

6200

6600

7200

5500

5900

6400

5100

5400

5800

TC2

8000

8600

8700

6900

7400

8000

6200

6600

7200

5700

6000

6500

TC2.5

8700

8700

8700

7600

8100

8200

6800

7200

7800

6200

6600

7200

TC3&4

8700

8700

8700

8200

8200

8200

7500

7800

7800

6800

7300

7500

C150-24

TC1

8300

8800

9400

7200

7700

8300

6400

6800

7400

5900

6200

6800

TC2

9300

9700

9700

8100

8600

9100

7200

7700

8300

6600

7000

7600

TC2.5

9700

9700

9700

8800

9100

9100

7900

8400

8700

7200

7700

8200

TC3&4

9700

9700

9700

9100

9100

9100

8700

8700

8700

7900

8200

8200

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