architects designers fabricators installers

Transcription

AGuide for
ARCHITECTS
DESIGNERS
FABRICATORS
INSTALLERS
NATIONAL ORNAMENTAL & MISCELLANEOUS METALS ASSOCIATION
SUITE 109, 2996 GRANDVIEW AVENUE, N. E.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30305
SECOND EDITION 1986
Price: $25.00
In nearly every kind of structure, from private residences to monu
an important component are the rails w '
of
balconies and platforms, In addition
a
architectural feature. It often create
first Impression 0
enrich and beautify its environment
omplements archit
si
choices are open to the designer in
hing styles and creating innovation, w
observing considerations of safety
cost.
The purpose of this manual is to provide to the designer and the fa
basic data on the design and fabrication of stair rails and guard
examples of custom-designed rails, a list of recommended books on or
metal design, a section on dimensional and strength requireme
guidelines for design, fabrication and installation, including a sampli
available components for ornamental metal rails, data on pr
on methods of measuring stairs for rail fabrication. Rail engin
plied shOWing simple calculations needed for
liance with stan
codes. Also, a listing of the major bUilding c
uthorities and a summary
requirements affecting rails are presented,
Rail fabrication is often combined with other miscellaneous m
tract documents and many fabricators become involved in a wide
tural metal items. Therefore, the subject of this manual extends in
of miscellaneous metal fabrication, namely
ary of term
a listing of miscellaneous metal product cl sifications and
standards.
The National Ornamental & Miscellaneous Metals Associ
NOMMA), founded
in 1958, is a trade association serving the ornamental and miscellaneous metal
fabricating industry nationwide. Among its purposes is to encourage ornamental
metal work of high quality. This manual reflects industry practices and standards
which have been developed by the association with this aim in mind. It is hoped
that it will serve as a useful guide to designers, fabricators and installers of rails
and railing systems. The contents of the manual should be considered advisory
in nature.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The National Ornamental & Miscellaneous Metals Association (NOMMA) expresses its appreciation to the past
and present members of NOMMA's Standards, Education and Apprenticeship, and Publications Committees.
Their contributions made possible the preparation and publication of this manual.
Gratitude is expressed to the following organizations for their contributions:
National Association of Architectural Metal Manufacturers (NAAMM)
American Welding Society (AWS)
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)
National Ornamental Metal Museum
Special recognition is extended to Dr. E. George Stern, Earle B. Norris Research Professor Emeritus of Virginia
Polytechnic Institute and State University, for his assistance in the preparation of this manual.
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Introd uction
2
Ornamental Rail Design
.
3-32
Recommended Books on Ornamental Metal Design
4-8
Dimensional Strength Requirements ..
9-14
Building Code Information
.
15-21
Engineering Data
.
23-32
Guidelines for Design, Fabrication and Installation.
33-47
Ornamental Rail Terminology.
35-36
Ornamental Rail Components.
37-41
Anchorage of Wall Brackets and Posts.
41-43
Measuring Stairs
44-47
.
Examples of Custom Designed Rails.
48-59
Appendices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..
60-84
Glossary of Architectural Metal Terms
for Stairs and Railings. . . . . . .
.
61-73
Miscellaneous Metal Fabrication
Guidelines for Product Classification. . . . . . . . .. 74-80
Guidelines for Ornamental and
Miscellaneous Steel Welding Standards.
81-84
The opinions, specifications and recommendations for the use and fabrication of metal rail systems contained in thiS
manual are for general informational purposes only. None of the materials contained in this manual publishod by National
Ornamental & Miscellaneoc:, rvletals Association (NOMMA) is intended to constitute or render engineering or architectural
services or an express or ,:np!ied warranty of any kind whatsoever, including, but not limited to, any warranty as to the
suitability of a metal railing system and/or rail for a particular use.
The systems discussed may vary according to the applicable building codes and the specific design situation. The stateTllents
made are not intended to be a substitute of architectural and engineering advice from an experienced architect or engineer
in a specific design situation.
Copyright 1986 National Ornamental & Miscellaneous Metals Assocaltion
For centuries, rails have been used for decorative effect, enhancing the appearance of
public and private structures. Metal always has been one of the favored materials because
of its versatility, durability and potential for beautiful design and exquisite workmanship.
Each historical period has, in every country and region, its own tradition and style, and
each of these styles is in keeping with the architecture of its time and place. Public libraries
contain many volumes describing the best of decorative metal design according to the traditions
of France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Britain and America. One of the finest collections of books
on the subject of ornamental metal work can be found at the National Ornamental Metal Museum
in Memphis, Tennessee. Other recommended books, which should be readily available, are
listed in this manual.
Good ornamental metal design is not a thing of the past. We are free to draw on designs
following past traditions, but we also have the greater freedom of taking advantage of current
technology, using a greater variety of materials and modern fabricating techniques. The only
limit is the imagination of the designer who, in turn, can draw on the experience and expertise
of skilled craftsmen and fabricators for suggestions and to check the practicality of his design
ideas.
The ancient crafts, particularly the art of the blacksmith, have seen a strong revival in
recent years and handcrafted rail designs are much in demand.
Also, a large variety of stock components, manufactured by modern production methods
and stocked by suppliers across the nation, may be combined in so many ways as to allow
the designer considerable freedom of choice. Such stock components are available to all the
metal fabricators called upon to execute the designer's plans. Their use can speed completion
and reduce cost. Some typical components are illustrated elsewhere in this manual. More
complete listings can be found in the individual suppliers' catalogs.
The following pages show custom-designed rails of both kinds. Many are examples of
handcrafted ornamental metal work; many are made, at least in part, with the use of stock
components. All are presented here to provide an idea of the wide range of possibilities for
beautifying any environment with ornamental metal rails.
3
Genernl Design
Collier, Graham. 1972.
FORM, SPACE AND VISION
Prentice Hall, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey
Though oriented primarily toward drawing, elements of design particularly important to designers
are well treated: line and negative space. A useful text, focusing on two-dimensional design.
Sausmarez, Maurice. 1964.
BASIC DESIGN
Van Nostrand Reinhold Company, New York, New York.
Beginning with a clear authoritative introduction, this book explains the elements of plastic art.
It is well illustrated with examples of elements of pictorial expression. A designer, working alone,
would find it an excellent guide.
Design with Metnl
Geerlings, Gerald K. 1957.
WROUGHT IRON IN ARCHITECTURE
Bonanza Books, New York, New York.
This scholarly text was intended to teach patrons of ironwork how to appreciate, select a design
and specify the execution of ironwork. It is therefore, extremely useful for the designer. Historical
development of wrought iron work is traced in Western cultures. It is well illustrated with
photographs and scale drawings of railings, stairways, balconies, gates and grilles.
Menten, Theodore. 1981.
ART NOUVEAU DECORATIVE IRONWORK
Dover Publications, Inc. New York, New York.
This is a well illustrated collection of work from Europe and the United States from the Art
Nouveau period. Captions for each photograph list the building, city, architect and designer
of the ironwork.
4
Zimelli, Umberto and Giovanni Vergerio. 1966.
DECORATIVE IRONWORK
Paul Hamlyn, London England.
Arranged by historical periods, this book illustrates and describes examples of European
architectural ironwork from antiquity to the present.
"How to"Sooks
Andrews, Jack. 1977.
EDGE OF THE ANVIL: A RESOURCE BOOK FOR THE BLACKSMITH
Rodale Press, Emmaus, Pennsylvania.
This practical blacksmithing manual is one of the best available. Marketing, record keeping,
planning, drawing and photographing finished work for portfolios are discussed as well as shop
layouts, tooling and materials. Techniques are described and illustrated. A technical section
of charts and tables on metallurgy, finishing, pickling and carburizing concludes this useful book.
Bealer, Alex W. 1969.
THE ART OF BLACKSMITHING
Funk and Wagnalls, New York, New York.
This book contains an oveNiew of blacksmithing for the general reader, beginning with a sUNey
of the craft since antiquity. Tools and equipment are discussed and particular processes illustrated
and described. A chapter on the making of weapons concludes the technical section.
Meilach, Dona. 1966.
DECORATIVE AND SCULPTURAL IRONWORK
Crown Publishers, New York, New York.
Meilach's text offers an almost encyclopedic oveNiew of metalwork, and includes articles on
techniques of scroll forming, forge-welding, animal head caNing, blade forging, and the making
of Damascus steel. It is well illustrated with drawings of blacksmithing processes, shop layouts,
and photographs of the work of American smiths.
NAAMM METAL FINISHES MANUAL
(Revised 1976) National Association of Architectural Metal Manufacturers, Chicago, Illinois.
Classification, designation and recommended specifications for all finishes applicable to
architectural metals: mechanical finishes, chemical finishes and coatings; references to industry
techniques and publications.
5
NAAMM METAL STAIRS MANUAL
(Fourth Edition 1982) National Association of Architectural Metal Manufacturers, Chica.go, Illinois.
Photographs, details and specifications of all types of architectural metal stairs and stair
components, ranging from strictly functional service stairs to elaborate ornamental stairs; includes
load tables and dimensional guides.
NAAMM PIPE RAILING MANUAL
(Revised 1985) National Association of Architectural Metal Manufacturers, Chicago, Illinois.
Up-to-date data on the materials appropriate for use in modern pipe railings, graphic
representations of some of the more commonly used construction details, guidance in their
proper structural design under current regulations, advice concerning their installation and
anchorage, and guidelines for specifying them.
Historical, General:
D' Allemagne, Henry Rene. 1968.
DECORATIVE ANTIQUE IRONWORK
Dover Books, New York, New York.
This book includes thousands of photographs of examples of European cast, forged, and tooled
ironwork from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Most of the objects depicted are very ornate,
probably pieces which belonged to the wealthy. Simple, utilitarian pieces are not represented.
Hoever, Otto. 1962.
ENCYCLOPEDIA OF IRONWORK
Universe Books, New York, New York.
This is a well-illustrated historical survey of European architectural ironwork from the 12th to
the 18th centuries.
Schiffer, Herbert, Peter, and Nancy. 1979.
ANTIQUE IRON
Schiffer Publishing, Exton, Pennsylvania.
This book contains a survey of English and American antique ironwork, including architectural
hardware, furniture, kitchen utensils and cast and forged grillworks.
Historical by Notion:
United States of America
Deas, Alston. 1941.
THE EARLY IRONWORK OF CHARLESTON
Bostick and Thomely Publishers, Columbia, South Carolina.
Drawings and descriptions of ironwork found in Charleston are presented with a text which
traces the development of design and techniques.
6
Kauffman, Henry J. 1966.
EARLY AMERICAN IRONWARE, CAST AND WROUGHT
Charles E. Tuttle Co., Rutland, Vermont.
The early American metal trades of the blacksmith, the farrier, locksmith, nailer, wheelwright,
tinsmith, founder and gunsmith are described and examples of their products are illustrated.
Simmons, Marc, and Frank Turley. 1980.
SOUTHWESTERN COLONIAL IRONWORK
Museum of New Mexico Press, Santa Fe, New Mexico.
The development of blacksmithing in the southwest is traced in this book. Spanish traditions
are followed to Mexico and into the American Southwest. Tools and techniques of smithing
and farriery are detailed and tools, hardware and weapons are illustrated. Smith-made religious
objects from the area are also included.
Wallace, Philip. 1930.
COLONIAL IRON IN OLD PHILADELPHIA
Architectural Book Publishing Company, New York, New York.
(reprint by Dover Publications, New York, NY, 1970).
Photographs and scale drawings of early colonial ironwork in Philadelphia make up this book,
an excellent source for colonial styles with many illustrations of railings, fences and gates.
France
Frank, Edgar B. 1950.
OLD FRENCH IRONWORK
Harvard University Press, Cambridge, Massachusetts.
This is a well-illustrated scholarly treatise on antique ironwork in France. Descriptions precede
photographs of work which is elaborate and ornate, including examples of tools, door hardware,
household utensils and smoking accessories.
Germany
Kuhn, Fritz. 1969.
WROUGHT IRON
Architectural Book Publishing Company, New York, New York.
This book is the photographic documentation of the work of the late Fritz Kuhn, recognized
as one of the most influential designer/blacksmiths of the 20th century. Many detail photographs
are included.
7
AustrullQ
Robertson, E. Graeme. 1972.
ORNAMENTAL CAST IRON IN MELBOURNE
The Griffin Press, Adelaide, Australia.
A superb pictorial essay of the historic cast iron work in Melbourne. Illustrations are primarily
architectural with a few selections of furniture and miscellaneous accessories.
EnglQnd
Ayrton, Maxwell. 1929.
WROUGHT IRON AND ITS DECORATIVE USES
Country Life and Scribners, New York, New York.
Architectural ironwork is explored in this historical treatise which includes photographs and
examples from Roman times through the 18th Century which have been found in England.
The literature of each period is analyzed.
Lindsay, John Seymore. 1965.
AN ANATOMY OF ENGLISH WROUGHT IRON
Tablinger Publishing Company, New York, New York.
This book surveys the historical development of English ironwork. Examples from each period
are illustrated and discussed. Forging operations and twisting patterns as well as leaf work
are explained.
Lister, Raymond. 1957.
DECORATIVE WROUGHT IRONWORK IN GREAT BRITAIN
Charles T. Brantford Company, Boston, Massachusetts.
A detailed history of ironwork in England, this book contains sections on technique as well
as decorative and architectural works. Historical influences from Roman times to the present
are explained, and the development of the craft is explored.
Tunshall, Small, and Christopher VVoodridge.
ENGLISH WROUGHT IRONWORK
Architectural Press, London, England.
A portfolio of scale drawings of major architectural works in Great Britain.
8
The descriptive paragraphs and illustrations which follow are based on standards compiled
by standing committees of the National Ornamental & Miscellaneous Metals Association
(NOMMA). This material also is in agreement with the following consensus standards developed
by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM):
ASTM Standard E894-83 Standard Test Method for Anchorage of Permanent Metal
Railing Systems and Rails for Buildings.
ASTM Standard E935-85a Standard Test Methods for Performance of Permanent Metal
Railing Systems and Rails for Buildings.
ASTM Standard E985-85 Standard Specification for Permanent Metal Railing Systems
and Rails for Buildings.
The design requirements are representative of the consensus of the metal fabricating industry
with regard to dimensions and performance. They may not, in every instance, agree with
governing building codes. The designer must conform with or exceed standards set by the
code applicable to his project.
The NOMMA standards in these pages are followed by a tabulation of major codes pertaining
to guardrails, handrails and stairrails. This listing briefly summarizes and compares the
requirements of the most common codes now in use.
It is the responsibility of the designer to ascertain not only what code applies to his project
but what late revisions of the code and what local variances may affect his design. That
information should be available from the local building department.
9
GUARD RAIL HEIGHT
REQUIRED GUARD RAIL
REQUIRED GUARD RAIL
INDIVIDUAL RESIDENCE
c:
E
.~
FLOOR
LINE
FLOOR LINE
c:
C1l
£<1::
IDO
ON
E
A. Guard Rails for individual residences
B. Other required guard rails
When vertical drop from floor to floor is 6 feet
or more, the rail height shall be a minimum of
34 in.
The minimum may be reduced to 32 in. when
drop is less than 6 ft.
The height from the top of the rail to the floor
shall be a minimum of 42 in.
C. Guard Rails for special or hazardous
situations
When vertical drop at a guard rail is more than
20 ft from the floor to the level below or in other
hazardous situations, a guard rail height of
more than 42 in. should be considered. The
decision is the responsibility of the designer.
Exception: Balconies with fixed seating
C
.~
<.0
N
SECTION A-A AT SEATS
STAIR
AISLE
SECTION B-B AT AISLE
D. Guard Rails for Balconies with fixed seating
Guard Rail adjacent to level aisle floors shall
be a minimum of 36 in. high. At the stair aisle
ends, the minimum shall be 42 in. high. The
rail height in front of the first row of seats may
be reduced to 26 in. above the floor, provided
the walkway between the fixed seats and the
guard rail allows only single-file passage.
c:
Guard rails are generally required where there
is a vertical drop of 24 in. or more from the floor
line to the level below.
10
HANDRAil HEIGHT
.~
.~
,~<v
S,,,,,0\; ,./
~
tl
C'?
C'?
~O
.S
.S
j
C\I
C'?
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RAMP
REQUIREMENT FOR
SEPARATE HANDRAIL
F. Transfer Rail Height
E. Handrails at Stairs and Ramps
The height of the top of the handrail above the
stair nosing line or ramp surface with a slope
of at least 1 in 20 shall be 32 in. with a tolerance of plus or minus 1 in. If conditions require
a guard rail higher than 33 in., a separate handrail shall be installed at the 32 in. height.
The height of the transfer rail above the floor
shall be 32 in. with a tolerance of plus or minus
1 in.
The term "transfer rail" refers to handrails
installed to enable persons to transfer their body
weight from one position to another.
RAILING OPENINGS
it
TOP OF TRANSFER RAIL
j
1'l2in.
clearance
( ± Va
in.)
.5
~
tl
5'V2 in.
max
G. Railing Accessible to children
or 2in.
.,.L max
]cn
--............_I~
II
I I ,
i
TRANSFER RAIL
H. Railings not accessible to general public
Railings which are not usually accessible to the general
public must not allow a sphere larger than 21 in. in
diameter to pass through any opening.
I. Guard Rails in work areas
Toe plates, where required, not less than 4 in. high
above the finished floor, shall be provided, with not more
than 112 in. clearance at the floor line, so as to prevent
objects on the floor from sliding off and endangering persons below.
TOE PLATE
----1W ! 1
Railings which are accessible to children must not allow
a sphere larger than 5112 in. in diameter to pass through
any opening. Such railings shall be so designed as to
discourage climbing. Lower rail or guard rails shall be
no more than 2 in. from the floor, unless the floor is
provided with a curb.
4 in.
min
1/2 in.
max clearance
ALSO CHECK GOVERNING CODE FOR APPLICABLE REQUIREMENTS
11
HANDRAil DESIGN
SEE K
11h in. min
clearance
J. Handrail Design
Handrails and all their joints and accessories for attaching them to walls and other
supports shall be smooth and free of sharp edges or projections. They shall be
designed to permit continuous sliding of hands. Handrails shall be turned or otherwise treated at the ends in such a manner as to avoid projecting rail ends or catching of clothing.
K. Handrail clearance at wall
The space between the wall side of a handrail and the wall surface, that is the rail
clearance, shall be not less than 1112 in. The handrail shall project no more than
3112 in. into the required stair width. * Stair width shall be increased by the excess
of projection over 3112 in.
Rail ends returned to the wall shall terminate not more than 1f4 in. from the wall.
,/
/'
,/
,/
r:::. ,/
/'
l. Handrail Ends at top and bottom of Stairs or Ramps
The handrail at the upper and lower ends of stairs or ramps shall extend a horizontal distance of 12 in. beyond the intersection of the nosing line or ramp surface with
the adjacent surface (See ASTM standard E985).
,/J
CHECK GOVERNING CODE FOR APPLICABLE REQUIREMENTS.
'Stair width requirements vary. Check governing building code.
POINT:F INTERSECTION OF
STAIR NOSING OR RAMP LINE
WITH ADJACENT SURFACE
\
HANDRAil GRIP DESIGN
DIAMETER
rue
M. Handrail Grip Design
Round handrails shall have a minimum diameter of 1 in. and a maximum diameter
of 2%in. For handrails other than round, the larger dimension shall be not less than
1112 in., the smaller dimension not more than 2 in. For some handrails, both dimensions may provide the hand grip; for other styles a special groove may be required.
2 3/8 In max
i
HANDGRIP
t
trr;J
ROUND HANDGRIP
12
c=;J=!1
I.
HANDGRIP
~
0...
/
a:
(;)
0
z
«
:I:
+1 HHANDGRIP
0
TRANSFER RAIL DESIGN
DIAMETER
1 9/32 in. min
2 1/16 in. max
CJJ
min perim
max perim
~'--------11+-,k
I
/
= 4 in.
= 6% in.
B
ROUND HANDGRIP
N. Transfer Rail Grip Design
The perimeter of the grip for a transfer rail shall be limited to a minimum
of 4 in. and a maximum of 61/2 in. with a maximum ratio of 2 to 1 between
the widest and narrowest dimension of the cross section.
1'h in.
clearance
:+:%in.
O. Wall Recess for Transfer Rails
11hin. clearance
±Vsin.
A wall recess shall not be more than 3 in. deep and shall extend not
less than 18 in. above the top of the rail. The wall surface of the recess
may be parallel to the wall or may slope from its depth at the handrail
to be flush with the wall 18 in. or more above the rail.
3 in. max
NON-ABRASIVE SURFACE
3 in. max
P. Transfer Rail Design
Transfer rails and their joints and accessories for attaching them to walls and other
supports shall be smooth and free of sharp edges or projections. They shall be
designed to permit continuous sliding of hands. Transfer rails shall be turned or
otherwise treated at the ends in such a manner as to avoid projecting rail ends or
catching of clothing.
Q. Transfer Rail Clearance at Wall
~
The space between the wall side of a transfer rail and the wall surface, that is the
rail clearance, shall be 11/2 in. plus or minus 1fa in.
Transfer rail ends returned to the wall shall terminate not more than 114 in. from
the wall.
RADIUS AT CORNER'
" - 5/32 in. min (approx.)
NON-ABRASIVE SURFACE
CHECK GOVERNING CODE FOR
APPLICABLE REQUIREMENTS.
THE TERM "TRANSFER RAIL" REFERS TO
THE HANDRAILS INSTALLED TO ENABLE
PERSONS TO TRANSFER THEIR BODY
WEIGHT FROM ONE POSITION TO
ANOTHER.
smooth all
edges
'!4
in. max
13
LOADING FOR RAILS
200 Ib
100lb
t
250lb
t
) ........1 - - - -
100lb
t
200 Ib
APPLIED NON·CONCURRENTLY
AT ANY POINT OF THE TOP RAIL
1_
.. - - -
250lb
APPLIED NON-CONCURRENTLY
AT ANY POINT OF THE TOP RAIL
TYPICAL CONDITIONS
APPLIED NON-CONCURRENTLY
INCREASE LOADING
WHERE HEAVY TRAFFIC
IS ANTICIPATED
ONE AND TWO-STORY
RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS
ONLY
R. Design Loading for Ralls and Rail Supports
Railings and Rail Supports shall conform with the design loading
criteria indicated. The concentrated load shall be assumed distributed
over a length of 6 in. at the top of the rail and applied non-concurrently.
Special consideration shall be given to loading of railing systems in
TRANSFER RAIL
areas of public assembly or other conditions involving heavy traffic
loads.
Engineering design should take into consideration load distribution
among several supports of a mUlti-span system. For design formulas
and load distribution data, refer to pages 22-31.
ALLOWABLE DEFLECTION
r
D
?(
D
MAXIMUM DEFLECTION D OF
H/24 + U96
WITH LOAD APPLIED
AT MIDSPAN OF RAIL
-0
\
\
\
\
\
L IS RAIL LENGTH
BETWEEN VERTICAL
SUPPORTS
\
---r--J:
-~\
\...-
\
\
\
\
\
J:
~
\
J:
(!)
\
\
W
J:
DEFLECTION OF RAIL
AND VERTICAL SUPPORT
\
I
MAXIMUM DEFLECTION D OF H/12
WITH LOAD APPLIED
AT VERTICAL SUPPORT
H IS RAIL HEIGHT
ABOVE FLOOR
\
\
\
\
\
I
DEFLECTION AT
VERTICAL SUPPORT
S. Deflection Criteria for Railings and Supports
Deflection of railings and rail supports shall not exceed the criteria indicated when the
design loading is applied. After the application and release of the required test load, the
anchored railing system shall return to within 112 in. of its original position.
Deflection under load is an important consideration. Although a certain ductility in the
rail helps to absorb the shock of an impact, excessive deflection can produce a feeling
of structural inadequacy. In addition to proper engineering design of a railing system,
secure anchoring and adequate support are essential to the avoidance of excessive deflection. For data on anchoring methods, see pages 42-52
A failure under test shall be considered to have occurred when:
1.
2.
14
Deflection of the anchored system exceeds the criteria indicated above when the
design loading is applied.
The anchored railing system fails to return to within 112 in. of its original position
after application and release of the design loading.
Every city, town, county, parish and state within the United States of America is governed
by one or more building codes. A building under construction today may be governed by
the local building ordinances as well as requirements of the State and several federal agencies.
These codes, ordinances and requirements are always subject to revision and modification. The building department at the location of the project can offer information as to what
specific code applies. Laws to provide accessibility for the physically handicapped, to provide safety for persons at their place of employment, to protect the workman during construction, to insure protection of occupants during an earthquake, and to prevent injUry or
death in the event of a fire, all influence or become a part of the local Building Code. Cities,
townships or local communities may adopt a major building code as produced by one of the
several associations of building officials in its entirety or with modifications.
A federal or federally subsidized building within this city or township must also conform to the building requirements of the federal agency concerned.
It is important to note that information in this section of the Rail Manual is only general
and that, for specific data, the governing agency for the project must be consulted.
The following is a list of major codes which influence the various areas of the country with
names and addresses of the groups that produce these codes:
A. UNIFORM BUILDING CODE (U.B.C.)
International Conference of Building Officials
5360 S. Workman Mill Road
Whittier, CA 90601
(213) 699-0541
Generally covers most areas west of the Mississippi River including most of Indiana, parts of Michigan and
major cities of Texas.
B. THE BASIC BUILDING CODE (B.O.C.A.)
Building Officials & Code Administrators International, Inc.
17926 S. Halsted Street
Homewood, Illinois 60430
Generally covers the Northeastern States.
C. STANDARD BUILDING CODE (SOUTHERN)
Southern Building Code Congress International, Inc.
900 Montclair Road
Birmingham, Alabama 35213
(205) 591-1853
Generally covers the Southeastern States.
15
D. NATIONAL BUILDING CODE
American Insurance Association
Published by: Engineering & Safety Service
85 John Street
New York, New York 10038
(212) 669-0469
Generally in use throughout East and Northeast States. The 1976 Edition is the last Edition to be published.
The name National Building Code will become part of B.O.C.A.
E. BUILDING CODE OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK
Dept. of Buildings-City of New York
Published by: The City Record Dept.
31 Chambers Street
(212) 566-2616
Generally covers the city of New York.
F. CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
City of Los Angeles, Dept. of Building & Safety
Published by: Building News, Inc.
3055 Overland Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90034
(213) 870-9871
Generally covers the City of Los Angeles. Los Angeles will be using the Uniform Building Code (UBC).
G. THE SOUTH FLORIDA BUILDING CODE
Published by: Broward County Bd. of Rules & Appeals
955 S. Federal Highway
Fort LaUderdale, Fla.
(305) 765-5800
Generally covers South Florida.
The following is a list of the more prominent agencies, both public and private, which influence local building codes or have the power to enact regulations:
H. OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY & HEALTH ACT (O.S.H.A.)
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Department of Labor
Washington, D.C. 20210
Published by: Federal Register, Section 1910
Washington, D.C.
(202) 576-6651
Applies to any employment and place of employment in any industry or work place throughout the United
States of America and its territories. (There are a few exceptions such as military.)
I.
AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARDS INSTITUTE (ANSI)
American National Standards Institute, Inc.
1430 Broadway
(212) 354-3300
ANSI is a private, national organization that publishes recommended standards.
J. NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS (NBSIR)
Center for Building Technology
Institute for Applied Technology
National Bureau of Standards
(202) 921-1000
A federal agency which develops basic information on which standards may be based.
16
K. NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION (N.F.P.A.)
(Life Safety Code)
National Fire Protection Association
Batterymarch Park
Quincy, Ma. 02269
(617) 770-3500
L. DEPT. OF HOUSING & URBAN DEVELOPMENT (HUD)
Department of Housing and Urban Development
451 7th Street, S.w.
(202) 755-6454
A Federal Agency.
M. GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION (GSA)
General Services Administration
18th & F Streets, N.W.
(202) 566-0038
N. CAL/ABL
State of California-Architectural Barriers Laws
Published by: Building News, Inc.
3055 Overland Ave.
Los Angeles, Calif. 90034
(213) 870-9871
California State Building Code on accessibility. Covers all public buildings in the State of California.
O. NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF STATES ON BUILDING CODES & STANDARDS (NCS/BCS)
National Conference of States on Building Codes and Standards
1970 Chain Bridge Road
McLean, Virginia 22102
(703) 437-0100
P. REAL ESTATE AND BUILDINGS (USPS)
Real Estate and Buildings Dept.
U.S. Postal Service
475 L'Enfant Plaza West, SW.
(202) 245-4226
Generally covers all U.S. Postal Service properties.
Q. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY & SAFETY POLICY
Equal Opportunity and Safety Policy
Department of Defense (DOD)
The Pentagon
(202) 695-0105
R. AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR TESTING AND MATERIALS (ASTM)
1916 Race Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 299-5400
ASTM is a private, national organization that publishes recommended standards.
S. Other Federal Agencies which influence Building Requirements:
1. Dept. of Health and Human Services
5. Dept. of Interior
2. Dept. of Justice
6. Veterans Administration
3. Dept. of Transportation
7. Dept. of Labor
4. Dept. of Education
8. Dept. of Defense
17
Summatyof Existing Code Requirements
The following chart briefly summarizes and compares the existing code requirements of
the most common building codes currently in use. Footnotes are used to define and clarify
the requirements.
STD. BLDG.
B.O.C.A.
U.B.C.
UNIFORM BUILDING CODE
INT'L CONFERENCE
OF BUILDING OFFICIALS
NAT'L BLDG.
CODE
CODE
BASIC BUILDING CODE
SOUTHERN CODE
BUILDING OFFICIALS
AND CODE ADMIN. INT'L
SOUTHERN BUILDING
CODE CONGRESS, INT'L
AU OPEN SIDED
FLOORS AND LANDINGS
MORE THAN 30" 0
AMERICAN INSURANCE
ASSOCIATION
GUARDIlAJL
REQ'D FOR DROP·
MORE THAN 30"0
OFFS:
~
1HEIGHT.
EXCEPTIONS:
42"
SINGLE FAMILY UNITS
MAY BE 36"·THEATFR8
MAY BE
26,,0
~
MAX. OPENINGS:
42"
SINGLE FAMILY UNITS
MAY BE 36"
12 "~NDUSTRIAL
EXCEPTIONS:
6"@
0
1-
0
0 CD
LOAD
REQUIREMENTS:
-
~
6"0
-
0
2O"/L1N. FT.
PUBLIC AREAS5O"/L1N. FT
2O"/L1N. FT.·DWELLINGS
SO"/L1N. FT. AND 200" POINT
(NOT CONCURRENT)
SO"/L1N. FT. PLUS 100VERTICAL-GRANDSTAND
42"
42"
48"·EXTERIOR
STAIRS@
6"0 WITH 2" CURB
OR BOTTOM RAIL
10" BE"TWEEN HORIZ. RAILS
SO'/UN.
6" BE"TWEEN BALUSTERS
FT.0
@
@
SO"/L1N.FT. & 200" POINT
(NOT CONCURRENT)
25-/SQ. FT. OF AREA
@
®
STAIR RAIL
REQ'D ON ALL OPEN
SlOES OF STAIRWAYS:
-
HEIGHT:
-
@
30" MIN.·34" MAX.
1-
MAX. OPENINGS:
EXCEPTIONS:
6,,0
12"·INOUSTRIAL
LOAD
REQUIREMENTS:
SAME AS GUARDRAIL
3 OR MORE RISERS
3 OR MORE RISERS
INCLUDES GLAZED SIDES
2 OR MORE RISERS
4 OR MORE RISER5-SINGLE ~
~
42"@
30" FOR 20 FT. HT. OR LESS
30" MIN.·34 "MAX. @
@
SAME AS GUARDRAIL
6"0
6"@
0
42"@
SAME AS GUARDRAIL
2O"/L1N. FT.·TOP RAIL
HA;;~A~L~;:'~A:~~~ @
HAND RAIL
REO'O ON STAiRSI
-
REQ'D-ONE SIDE:
REO'O-IlOTH SlOES:
-~_
REO'D·INTER. RAIL'
~
HEIGHT:
CLEAR. FROM WALL:
MAX. PROJECTION:
SIZE:
2 OR MORE RISERS
-
I
~
3 OR MORE RISERS
LESS THAN 44" WIDE
44" OR MORE WIDE
MORE THAN 88"
®
3Vz"MAX.@
1-
1-
1-
6"ONESIDE@
RETURN OR SAFETY TERM.
-
3Vz"MAX@
-
®
ALL STAIRS
MORE THAN 88"®
3O"MIN,@
3O"MIN,.J4"MAX.@
1--- 1V." MIN.-2" MAX. @
44" OR MORE WIDE
0
l lh" MIN.
I~
EXTENSIONS:
ENDS:
0_1.
44"ORMOREWIDE
3 OR MORE RISERS
LESS THAN 44" WIDE
MORE THAN 88" ®
_I~
-
- -
LESS THAN 44" WIDE
MORE THAN 88" ®
30" MIN,.J4"MAX, @
30" MIN..J4" MAX. @
1%" MIN.
1I-
3Vz"MAX.@
I-
3Vz"MAX,@
18"
@
lRETURN TO WALL OR POST
RAMPS
HANDRAIL REO'O ON:
REOUIREMENTS:
TOEBOARD
OVER 1:15. SLOPE
OVER 1:12 SLOPE
SAME AS STAIRS
SAME AS STAIRS
AlL RAMPS
SAME AS STAIRS
SAME AS STAIRS
REO'O ON GRANDSTANO@
SP'L CONDITIONS
18
THEATERS/GRANDSTANDS
00
THEATER BALCONIES
@
THEATER BALCONIES
00
THEATER BALCONIES
®0
Every attempt was made to make the chart as complete and accurate as possible;
however, we suggest that, for application to specific code requirements, the user should
refer to the complete text of the governing code. (Note: Refer to the edition as adopted
by the governing authority-this may not be the latest edition.)
CITY OF N.Y.
BLDG. CODE
SO. FLORIDA
BLDG. CODE
CITY OF L.A.
BLDG. CODE
A.S.T.M.
O.S.H.A.
AMERICAN SOCIETY
FOR TESTING AND
MATERIALS
STANDARD E 985-84
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY
AND HEALTH ACT
MORE THAN 30" 0
MORE THAN 24"0
MORE THAN 48"-FACTORY
,-
-
I~
36"-42"
36"
42"·PLACES OF
EMPLOYMENT
-
I~
5"0
I~
9"0
ONEMI~L
5'h"@
4 "-RESIDENTlAL
ONE MIDRAIL-NON PUBLIC @
0
00
@
42"
SINGLE FAM. UNITS MAY BE:
32"·FOR DROP LESS THAN 6 FT.
34 "·FOR DROP MORE THAN 6 FT.
®
21" MAXANDUSTRIAL@
4" MAX·SWlMMING POOLS
CONCURRENT LOADS:
4O"/L.F. HORZ. & SO"/L.F VERT.
EXCEPT DWELLINGS
2O"/L.F. HORZ. & 2O"/L.F. VERT.
I~
42"
42"
9" MAX. 0
MORE THAN 24" 0
MORE THAN 48" 0
I~
2O"/L1N. FT.
PUBLIC AREAS5O"/L1N. FT.
SO"/L1N. FT.
25"/SQ. FT.
21 "4NDUSTRIAL
0
2OO"/ANY DIRECTION
RESIDENTIAL·
'COo/ANY DIRECTION
2OO"/ANY DIRECTION
@
4 OR MORE RISERS
4 OR MORE RISERS
30" MIN.·34" MAX.@
30" MIN.·34" MAX.@
4 OR MORE RISERS
3 OR MORE RISERS
1-
-
I~
30" MIN.·34" MAX. @
(2)
SAME AS GUARDRAIL
9" MAX.
ONE INTER. RAlL·INDUSTRIAL
SAME AS GUARDRAIL
SAME AS GUARDRAIL
SAME AS GUARDRAIL
SAME AS GUARDRAIL
HANDRAIL·200" @ ANY PT.
4 OR MORE RISERS
LESS ·THAN 44" WIDE
LESS T'iAN 44" WIDE
®
88"0
44" OR MORE WIDE
MORE THAN
30" MIN.-34 " MAX.@
I-
1V2"
I~
I~
3'h"MAX.@
,-
RETURN TO WALL OR POST
4 OR MORE RISERS
®
88" 0
®
88"0
44" OR MORE WIDE
MORE THAN
®
88"0
44" OR MORE WIDE
MORE THAN
30" MIN.-34" MAX.@
30" MIN.-34" MAX@
31" MIN.-33" MAX
3'h"MAX.@
-
1-
3'h"MAX.@
-- -
HARDWDDD-2 "
METAL-,In"
-
6"ONESIDE@
SAME AS STAIRS
SAME AS STAIRS
SAME AS STAIRS
AS PER O.S.HA
REOUIREMENTS
THEATER BALCONIES
® CD
-
-
3.... MAX.
-
@
-
12" MIN.·TOP AND BOTT.@
OVER 1\1.:12 SLOPE
GUARDRAIL IF OVER 24" DROP
5.... " HIGH WINO OPEN SPi'CE
BETWEEN FLA. & TOEBOARD
.-
11h"
1Vz"
OVER 1:'5 SLOPE
® CD
SAME AS GUARDRAIL
TRANSFER RAIL 250" ANY PT.
LESS THAN 44" WIDE
OVER 1: 12 SLOPE
THEATER BALCONIES
SAME AS GUARDRAIL
SAME AS GUARDRAIL
@
1Vz"
,-
SAME AS GUARDRAIL
4 OR MORE RISERS
30" MIN.-34" MAX.@
I-
31" MIN.·33" MAX.
LESS THAN 44" WIDE
44" OR MORE WIDE
MORE THAN
30" MIN.·34" MAX. @
RETURN TO WALL
RETURN TO WALL
1:20 SLOPE OR STEEPER
SAME AS STAIRS
4" HIGH W/MAX. V,"CLEAR
BETWEEN FLA. & TOEBOARD
4" HIGH/MAX 'h" CLEAR
BETWEEN FLR. & TOEBOARD
THEATER BALCONIES
@
19
Foot Notes
1. Not required on the loading side of loading docks.
2. Open guardrail and stair railings shall have intermediate rails or an ornamental pattern such that a sphere
of shown diameter cannot pass through.
3. Open space between the intermediate rails or ornamental pattern of guardrails in areas of commercial and
industrial type occupancies, which are not accessible to the public, may be such that a 12" diameter sphere
cannot pass through.
4. Load per lineal foot to be applied horizontally at right angles to the top rail.
5. Exit facilities serving an occupant load greater than 50.
6. Guardrails on a balcony immediately in front of the first row of fixed seats and which are not at the end
of an aisle may be 26 inches in height.
7. Guardrails need not be provided on the auditorium side of a stage or enclosed platform.
8. Stairways serving one individual dwelling unit may have one handrail, except that such stairways open on
one or both sides shall have handrails provided on the open side or sides.
9. Stairways more than 88 inches in width shall be provided with not less than one intermediate handrail for
each 88 inches of width. Intermediate handrails shall be spaced approximately equal within the entire width
of the stairway.
10. Measured above the nosing of treads.
11. The hand grip portion of handrails shall be limited in cross-sectional dimension as noted and shall have a
smooth surface with no sharp corners.
12. Except for private stairways, at least one handrail shall extend not less than 6 inches beyond the top and
bottom risers.
13. Ends shall be returned or shall terminate in newel posts or safety terminals.
14. A 4 inch high vertical barrier shall be installed along the edge of walking platforms wherever guardrails are
required.
15. Clear opening between horizontal rails or vertical balusters shall not exceed 6 inches.
16. Handrails and guardrails around stairwells, balconies and other floor openings, both exterior and interior,
shall be designed to resist a load of at least 200 pounds applied in any direction at any point of the top
rail and also a vertical and horizontal thrust of 50 pounds per lineal foot applied at the top railing. The concentrated load and distributed loads need not be assumed to act concurrently.
17. Railings and guards of reviewing stands, grandstands, bleachers and similar assembly structures shall be
capable of resisting a lateral force of 50 pounds per lineal foot and sustaining a vertical load of 100 pounds
per lineal foot.
18. Guards shall be not less than 30 inches in height measured vertically above the nosing of the tread along
stairs which do not exceed 20 feet in height or reverse direction at intermediate landings with 12 inches
or less measured horizontally between successive flights.
20
19. Metal or other approved noncombustible railings shall be provided on balconies and galleries. Rails shall
be not less than 26 inches in height at the fascia; not less than 36 inches in height at the end of aisles
extending to the fascia for the full width of the aisle; and not less than 42 inches in height at the foot of
steps for the full width of the steps.
20. For buildings 4 stories or more in height, exterior stairways which are a portion of required means of egress,
shall have guards not less than 4 feet (48 inches) in height.
21. Safeguards (Guardrails) in and around buildings of Group H and I occupancies (Multiple and Single family
use) shall provide protection for children by providing additional rails, vertical pickets, or an ornamental filler
below the top rail which will reject a four inch (4") diameter object; permitting, however, such ornamental
fillers to have individual openings not exceeding 64 square inches in area.
22. Areas in all occupancies, except residential, which are not open to the public may be provided with vertical
barriers having a single rail midway between a top rail and the walking surface.
23. Guards shall be designed and constructed to withstand independently: (1) the loads of attached handrails,
(2) 200 pound concentrated load horizontally at any point 42 inches above walking surface, and (3) 50 pounds
per lineal foot applied horizontally 42 inches above walking surface; and to transfer these loads to the major
structural member of the ramp or landing.
24. Guards constructed with intermediate rails, balusters, and panel fillers shall withstand a 25 pound per square
foot load applied horizontally for the total area of the guard, including the area of any openings.
25. Handrails and attachment devices shall withstand a 200 pound load applied independently vertically or horizontally at any point.
26. Handrails may project into the required width of stairways a distance of 3'/2 inches from each side of a stairway. Other nonstructural projections such as trim and similar decorative features may project into the required width 1'/2 inches on each side.
27. Railings shall be designed to resist the simultaneous application of a lateral force and a vertical load both
applied to the top railing.
28. Handrails shall extend the required distance beyond the intersection of nosing line with the adjacent surface.
29. In industrial, commercial and other non-residential occupancies where only adults normally have access and
in areas of other occupancies where access by the occupants is infrequent, the diameter of the sphere may
be increased to 21 inches unless other conditions warrant a smaller diameter.
List of Abbreviations
Fam
Ft
Fir
Ht
Horz
In.
Inter
Lin Ft
-Family
-feet
-Floor
-Height
-Horizontal
-Inches
-Intermediate
-Lineal Feet
Max
Min
Pt
#
Sq Ft
Term
Vert
-Maximum
-Minimum
-Point
-Pounds (assume concentrated load
un less otherwise noted)
-Square Feet
-Terminal
-Vertical
21
Design Considera.tions
A greater concern for safety has caused code authorities and regulatory agencies
to include structural requirements for permanent railing systems and rails in their codes
and regulations. Therefore, it is appropriate to include in this manual directions for simple calculations which will help the designer establish structural properties of railing systems and rails. The major considerations for the structrual design of railing systems and
rails are:
• Dimensional and structural loading criteria as established by regulatory agencies, local building codes or special design requirements.
• Mechanical properties of railing and rail materials and their allowable design
stresses.
• Elements of sections of railing and rail components.
• Load and deflection relationships as expressed in formulas for engineering design.
• Proper attachment and sound supporting structure.
Code Requirements
Building code requirements mayor may not be the same as the criteria recommended
by NOMMA and in ASTM * standards. The governing building code takes precedence when
its criteria exceed ASTM requirements.
MechnnicQI Properties of Mnterinls
Qnd 5nfety Fnctors
To provide proper safety factors, the engineering pr.ofession assigns to each metal an
allowable design stress. In a typical test of a railing system designed on the basis of these
* American Society for Testing and Materials, Philadelphia, Pa,
23
safety factors, load test results will show substantial permanent deformation at about twice
the design stress.
Mechanical properties and allowable design stresses of materials normally used in metal
railing systems and rails are listed in the following table:
Minimum
Yield
(psi)
Allowable
Stress
(psi)
Material
Aluminum 6061-T6
Aluminum 6061-T6 (pipe)
Aluminum 6063-T52
Aluminum 6063-T6
Bronze (alloy 385)
Red Brass (alloy 230) (pipe)
Red Brass (alloy 230) (drawn square and
rectangular tubing)
Type 304 Stainless Steel (annealed)
Type 304 Stainless Steel Tubing (as welded)
Carbon Steel Structural Tubing ASTM
A500 Grade B
Carbon Steel C1020
Carbon Steel C1010
Modulus of
Elasticity
(psi x 106)
21,000
24,000*
9,500
11,500*
15,000
18,000*
24,000*
11,500
11,000
35,000
35,000
16,000
16,000
25,000
25,000
35,000
19,000
18,000
10.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
10.0
14.0
17.0
11,000
21,000
30,000
18,000
35,000
55,000* *
17.0
28.0
28.0
25,500
20,000
17,000
42,000
33,000
28,000
29.0
29.0
29.0
*Allowable=Aluminum pipe only min. yieldx1.17+1.65 (Ref. ASCE and Alum. Assn.)
* *Established by producing manufacturers of Stainless Tubing.
Elements of Sections
Section properties of the most commonly used sizes of bars, shapes, pipe and tubing
used in railing and rail construction can be found in tables issued by industry associations and
by some of the suppliers of these products. For proprietary sections, such as handrails and
ornamental railing posts, this information is supplied in some of the suppliers' catalogs. As
an example, the table below lists the engineering properties of a few pipe sections commonly
used in rails in a variety of metals.
Nominal
Pipe Size
00
10
in.
in.
Thickness
in.
Area
in. 2
I
in. 4
S
in. 3
SCHEDULE 5
1'14
1112
1.660
1.900
1.530
1.770
.065
.065
.326
.375
.104
.158
,125
166
.531
.614
161
,247
.193
.260
.494
.669
.800
1.075
.087
,195
.310
.666
.133
.235
.326
.561
SCHEDULE 10
1'14
1112
1.660
1.900
1.442
1.682
1.315
1.660
1.900
2,375
1.049
1.380
1.610
2.067
,109
.109
SCHEDULE 40
1
1'14
1112
2
24
.133
.140
.145
.154
Cnlculntlons for Structurnl Design
LOADING DIAGRAM
FV
p
EXPLANATION OF SYMBOLS
w::-: Uniform horizonlalloading, Ib/tt (perpendicular to
the rall).
L = Span between centerlines of posts, or brackets
(in.)
P = HOrizontal force perpendicular to rail applied at top
of post (Ib).
FH
h
=Horizontal force,
perpendicular to rail at any point
along the railing (Ib).
FV = Vertical force, perpendicular to rail at any point
between posts (Ib).
h = Height of post. Distance from point of load application above top of attachment (in.).
h,
=
Distance from top of post attachment to top of rein-
forcing insert (in.).
M ~ Bending moment (in. Ib).
f ~ Unit stress (psi).
fs=Allowable fiber stress for design (psi).
Sx&Sy=Seclion modulus about the x-or y-axis respectively (in. 3)
8 1 ::-: Combined section modulus of post with reinforcing insert.
Ix& Iy = Moment of inertia about the x- or y-axis respectively (in,4).
k"" Stiffness of member
K = Bending moment constant
C;:c Distance from the neutral axiS to the extreme fiber
of any section (in.)
E = Modulus of elasticity (psi x 10 6 )
V = Deflection (in.)
NOTE: Values for "w" (uniform load in Ib/ft) are converted
to lblin. by dividing by 12
Basic equation: When calculating bending stresses, the basis of reasoning is that the bending
moment (M) applied to a post or rail must be equalled by the resisting moment. The latter
is determined by the unit stress (f) of the railing material and the properties of the railing
section, that is its section modulus (8).
M=fx8
Allowable stress: The unit stress of a metal is determined by its composition and temper.
In structural design, allowable design stresses (fs), as used in these pages, are based
on a safety factor of 1.65, applied to minimum yield strength, which is generally accepted
by the engineering profession. For aluminum round tube and pipe, the allowable stress
is increased by a factor of 1.17.
Section Modulus, Neutral Axis: The section modulus (8) is determined by the size, shape
and cross sectional area of a section. It may differ for each of the two neutral axes:
The neutral axis of a symmetrical section is the center line; otherwise it is the line which
passes through the center of gravity of the section, parallel either to its longest or its
shortest dimension. The two axes, x and y, are perpendicular to each other. For round
and for square sections, the section modulus (8) is the same for either axis. Otherwise,
it is described as 8x or 8 y, depending on which axis is involved.
Moment of Inertia: The moment of inertia (I) about the x or y axis of a section is the section
modulus (8), multiplied by (c), the distance of the neutral axis of any section from the
extreme fibre, that is, from the farthest edge of the section, measured at right angles to
the axis.
Calculations presented here are applicable to free standing, straight run railings with uniform
post spacing. Lateral bracing, curving, or attachment to other structures may reduce bending
25
moment substantially, which designers may take into consideration. As a rule, in the structural
design of railing systems, only a few loading conditions need to be considered:
The horizontal load at the top of a newel post.
The horizontal and vertical loads on the rail between newel posts.
Loading requirements may be expressed as:
Concentrated loads, to be measured at the top of a post for post loading, at midspan between posts for rail loading, or
Uniformly distributed loads along the length of the rail.
Posts
The bending moment (M) applied to a post is defined as the horizontal load at the top
of the post (P), multiplied by the height (h) from the top to the point of attachment.
M=Pxh
The resisting moment (allowable stress fs ' multiplied by section modulus S) must equal
or exceed the applied moment; therefore:
Pxh~fsxS
If any three of these four factors are known, this equation can be solved to determine:
Allowable load:
P =fs x S
h
Required section modulus: S = P x h
fs
Allowable post height:
h = fs x S
Required design stress:
fs = P ~ h
P
Example 1: A steel picket rail for a residential application is required to be 36 in. high, with square
posts, to withstand a horizontal load of 100 Ib at any point of the top rail.
Determine the required post size.
Given are:
Required horizontal loading at any point of the top rail (FH) = 100 lb.
(The loading of the post is greatest when the horizontal load is applied directly at
the top of the post. Therefore, FH = P.)
Height, top of rail to floor
Allowable stress, steel C1020
(h) = 36 in.
(fs)=20,000 Ib/in. 2
Determine required post section modulus (S).
S =Pxh 100x36 = 0180 'In 3
fs
20,000'
.
Required post size: Square tubing 1114 in.x11f4 in.xVa in.
26
(S=0.187 in. 3)
This calculation is based on the assumption that each post in the system may have to
sustain the entire horizontal load applied at any point of the top rail, which point may be at
the top of a post. This would be true if the railing had but a single span or if the top rail were
completely flexible. However, in continuous multi-span railing installations, the horizontal load
applied to the top rail at anyone post is distributed, in part, to the adjoining posts on either
side. Therefore, in many instances, railing posts may be designed for an allowable load
(P), in Ib which is less than the total load to be applied to the top rail. When load distribution is ignored, the railing system may be over-designed.
Load Distribution Among Adjoining Posts
Load distribution is determined by stiffness of the rail relative to stiffness of the posts
and by the total number of spans in the run. For a straight run of railing, the load-proportion
factor may be determined from the graph overleaf, once the stiffness ratio has been calculated. The formula used in determining this graph assumes that all posts are of identical material and section. If one or both ends of the rail are free-standing, the "end-loaded"
condition must be assumed. If both ends of the run are braced laterally by a change in
direction or attachment to a firm structure, the "center-loaded" proportion factor may
be used. *
The stiffness of a rail kr is the moment of inertia (Ir), in in., multiplied by the modulus of
elasticity (E), in psix10 6 , divided by the length of the span (L),in in.
kr
= Ex Ir
L
The stiffness of the post kp is the moment of inertia (Ip), in in., multiplied by the modulus
of elasticity (E), in psix1Q6, divided by the height of the post (h), in in.
kp=Exlp
h
The stiffness ratio (R) is the stiffness of the rail, divided by the stiffness of the post:
R=~=Exlr -;-~
kp
L
h
The stiffness ratio (R) is plotted on the graph to obtain the load proportion factor (Pf)· When
the load proportion factor has been determined, it is multiplied by the total load to find the
load which one post must sustain.
• Load distribution may also be influenced by joint stiffness. Research under way is shedding light on ioad distribution. Reference is made
to unpublished reports on "Pilot Tests on Performance of Permanent Metal Railing Systems for Buildings", Phase I of study by ASCE
Task Group on Pre-Standardization of Permanent Railing Systems and Rails for Buildings, of May, 1984, and July, 1984, as well as on
"Tests on Performance of Permanent Metal Railing Systems and Rails for Buildings", Phase IIA of above study, of January, 1986, performed
under auspices of American Society of Civil Engineers Technical Committee on Structural Safety and Reliability, Committee on Safety of
BUildings, Task Group on Pre-Standardization of Permanent Railing Systems and Rails for Buildings, on behalf of Occupational Safety
and Health Administration of U.S. Department of Labor and National Ornamental & Miscellaneous Metals Association and in cooperation
with National Association of Architectural Metal Manufacturers.
27
RAILING LOAD DISTRIBUTION DATA
1.0
0.9
l;.
CENTER LOAOED
G - 2 Span Structure
H - 4 Span Structure
J - 6 Span Structure
K - 8 Span Structure
L - 10 Span Structure
M- 12 Span Structure
END LOADED
A 2 Span Structure
B4 Span Structure
C - 6 Span Structure
0- 8 Span Structure
E - 10 Span Structure
F - 12 Span Structure
The stiffness of a rail or
post is
0.8
A
Q:.
k
=
E ~ I for the post
k
=
E ~ I for the rail
c::
0
lII
0.7
Stiffness ratio is determined as
<{
l.L.
Z
B
0.6
0
i=
c::
c
0
Cl.
0
0.5
Cl.
0.4
D
c::
E
0
F
G
<{
0
..J
0.3
H
J
K
L
M
0.2
0.1
0.1
0.5
1.0
5.0
10
STIFFNESS RATIO (R)
50
100
R
=
k rail
kpost
The stiffness ratio (R) is
then plotted on the chart
at left to obtain Load Proportion Factor (PI)'
When the load proportion
factor has been determined, it is multiplied by
the total load to determine the load one post
must sustain.
This graph has been
determined by computer
analysis and confirmed
by laboratory test.
5001000
krail/
k post
Example 2: The railing in example 1 is free-standing and has three or more spans. The top rail
is a 1%-in. steel cap rail. It is desired to use 1-in.square solid posts, placed 60 in. on centers. Determine
whether the posts are adequate to sustain the required 100-lb horizontal load, taking into account
load distribution. Given are:
For the top rail:
Moment of inertia about vertical axis (I yr) =0.1 04 in. 4
For the post:
Moment of inertia, either axis (l p)=0.083 in. 4
For both sections:
Modulus of elasticity (E) = 29 x 106 psi.
Span between posts (L)=60 in.
Height of post (h) = 36 in.
Find stiffness ratio (R)
_ Ex Iyr ~ Exl p 29x 106 xO.104x36 -075
R '" k,
kp- L . h
29x106 xO.083x60 - .
28
Plot load proportion factor (Pt) on graph:
Stiffness ratio 0.75, end loaded, span structure B:
Load proportion factor: 0.82
Calculate required section modulus, applying load proportion factor 0.82
S PxhxPt 100x36xO.82=0.148 in.3
fs
20,000
A Hn. square bar, section modulus S=0.167 in. 3, is acceptable.
The example demonstrates that, because of load distribution, 1-in. square posts are found
to be adequate to sustain the required 100-lb load. Without considering load distribution,
the calculation would indicate a requirement for a larger post.
In pipe railings, where posts and rails are of identical material and section and where post
spacing usually varies between 3 ft and 6 ft, load distribution is fairly uniform and the greatest
porportion of a concentrated load carried by anyone post can be estimated as follows:
End posts of a 2 span railing-85%
End posts of a railing of 3 or more spans-82%
Intermediate posts of a 2 span railing-65%
Intermediate posts of a railing of 3 or more spans-60%
Thus, if a 2OQ-lb concentrated load is specified, the actual design load to be applied at
the top of the end post is 82% of 200 Ib or 164 Ib, and the design load to be applied to
intermediate posts is 60% of 200 Ib, or 120 lb.
Note: If end posts differ from intermediate posts in strength, the load distribution pattern becomes
indeterminate and end posts should then be designed to carry 100% of the concentrated load.
Intermediate posts may then be designed to the "center loaded" condition.
In single span railings, each post must be designed to carry the full concentrated load.
When the required loading is expressed as a uniformly distributed load, the load at the
top of the post equals the spacing between posts (L), in in. multiplied by the load per in., that
is, Yi2 of the load per ft. (w/12). Accordingly, P=Lxw/12. The formula then becomes:
Lxw/12xh=fs xS.
It is solved in the same manner as the first post formula, substituting Lxw/12 for P. It can
also serve to determine
Maximum post spacing: L= fsxS
w/12xh
Allowable load per foot: w
12 x fs x S
Lxh
Rails
A concentrated load applied to a rail exerts its greatest bending moment when applied
in mid-span. The moment is determined by the load (F), in Ib and the length of the span (L),
in in., and is resisted by the allowable stress of the rail material (fs), in psi, multiplied by the
29
section modulus (S), in in. 3, of the rail section. However, the distribution of loads over multiple
spans decreases the maximum bending moment in rails. This is expressed by a bending moment
constant (K) which varies according to the number of spans and the reduced unit stress. Therefore,
the equation of applied and resisting moments for concentrated loads at mid-span of a rail is:
FxL=fsxSxK
K =4 for one span
K = 5 for two or more spans.
For uniformly distributed loads, the equation is:
w/12xL2=fs xSxK
K = 8 for one or two spans
K=9.5 for three or more spans.
If all but one of the factors are known, these equations can be solved as follows;
For concentrated loads applied at mid-span:
Allowable load:
F=
Allowable span:
L
fsxSxK
L
fsxSxK
F
Required section modulus: S= FxL
fsxK
f s = FxL
SxK
For uniformly distributed loads:
Allowable load:
w= 12xfsxSxK
L2
Allowable span:
L~fsXS~KX12
Required section modulus: S=
wx L2
12xfs xK
f =
s
WXL2
12xSxK
Example 3: A handrail of 3 by 1-in. aluminum tubing with a wall thickness of 0.125 in. has to
sustain a concentrated vertical load (Fv) of 200 lb. The rail has three spans. Given are:
Section modulus S: 0.307 in 3 .
Allowable stress fs: 9,500 psi.
Bending moment constant K: 5.
Determine maximum span (L):
L
fsxSxK 9,500xO.307x5
F
200
72.9 in.
v
30
Combined Hondroils Using Sections of the Some Metol
When two sections are combined to form a handrail by being fastened together, as
in a bar mounted on a channel, the two sections develop the same deflection under load
but act independently about their neutral axes. Since the section modulus S = ~ (see
explanation of these symbols on page 25), the value of the combined sections is la + lb.
Cmax
Cmax is either Ca or Cb, whichever is greater. In the railing formulas, substitute la+lb for
Cmax
the value of S whenever combined sections of the same material are used.
Example 4: A handrail consisting of an aluminum rectangular bar (A) 2112 in. by % in. is mounted
on an aluminum channel (B) 1112 in. by % in. with a thickness of 0.125 in. Both sections are of alloy
6063·T52. The rail has two spans (L), 60 in. in length. Given are:
Allowable stress (fs) 9,500 psi.
Bending moment constant (I<) 8
Properties of rectangular bar Ixa = 0.088
cxa =0.3?5
Properties of channel IXb=0.01?
cXb=0.51?
Determine maximum vertical load per ft. (w).
w 12xfs x(la+l b)xK
L2 xc max
12x9,500x(0.088+0.017)x8 51.5 lb.
60 2 xO.51?
Combined Sections of Dissimilor Moteriols
To compute the loading of combined sections of dissimilar materials, such as a bronze
handrail mounted on a steel channel or an aluminum tubular post reinforced with steel,
calculations involve the determination of the relative proportion of the load carried by each section.
The distribution of load is a function of the relative stiffness of the two metals, which is determined
by their moments of inertia and moduli of elasticity. The distribution of the total load between
two sections can be determined as follows:
31
Example 5:
Given, Section A
2 by 1-in., 0.100 in. wall rectangular bronze tubing, alloy 385
IxA 0.090 in 4 •
SxA 0.180 in 3 .
EA 14x106 psi
fsA 11 ,500 psi
Section B
1 by 1f2 by 0.125-in. steel channel, C 1020.
0.005 in 4 •
SxB 0.014 in 3 .
EB 29x106 psi
fsB 20,000 psi
Concentrated vertical load Fv 200 lb.
Spans are not continuous (K=4)
IXB
Load carried by section A
FvA
Fv
1-1 EBxlxB
EAxlxA
200
1 + 29xO.005
14xO.090
179 .4 Ib .
Load carried by section B
FVB =
Fv
=
200
1+ EAxlxA 1+ 14xO.090
EBxlxB
29xO.005
20.6 lb.
Fv=FvA +FvB=179.4+20.6=200 lb.
Determine maximum span (L) for each section (see rail formulas):
LA = KxfsAXSA __ 4x11,500xO.180
FvA
1794
.
462'
. In.
KxfsBXSB 4x20,000xO.014
=
20.6
FVB
54.4 in.
LB=
Maximum span for the combined sections is the lesser value, 46.2 in.
32
The purpose of specifications, in combination with drawings, is to define the railing and rail materials, their quality
and the workmanship to be furnished, in such a manner as to permit competitive bidding on an equal basis.
GUIDELINES FOR
DESIGN,
FABRICATION
AND
INSTALLATION
Specifications for railing systems and rails shall reflect
the actual job requirements and incorporate necessary
interpretations of codes which have jurisdiction where the
project is constructed. Special requirements due to
occupancy and usage must be spelled out in the specifications and are the responsibility of the designer.
The drawings shall cover such items as are applicable
and helpful in interpreting the specifications such as the
height, the spacings, and the openings. The drawings
shall include notations for catalog items. All railings and
rail components, whether plain or ornamental, shall be
described as to materials, sizes, anchorage, finishes etc.
When it is necessary to establish the quality level of the
manufacturer's catalog items, the manufacturer and catalog component identification shall be indicated for each
item or its equal.
The nature of the ornamental and miscellanous metal
used in the manufacture of railing systems and rails is
such that rolled, extruded, forged, cast, stamped and
machined metal products, furnished by manufacturers
as catalog items, should be used wherever practical. For
this reason, it is essential for the designer and specifier
of railing systems and rails to be cognizant of catalog
items.
The page overleaf contains guidelines for typical design
and fabrication of plain picket type railings. The materials
indicated are optional and subject to variations.
Drawings shall indicate the location of the newel posts,
the height of the railing and of the bottom rail above nosing line or walking surface, the picket spacing, all bend
locations as well as other relevant details. See pages
10 and 11 for recommended railing heights and openings. Shop layout for fabrication should not begin before field measurements have been taken, unless
special instructions are given.
33
GUIDELINES FOR DESIGN AND FABRICATION OF PICKET RAILS
Rail for Steel, Concrete or Masonry Steps and Floors
Handrail moulding may be mounted on flat bar or channel by weld or screws
or welded directly to pickets.
it
[5
B
A
w
a...
en
0
f-
a:
A
w
z
B
<!J
U5
w
Cl
VINYL PLASTIC
c:6ii3?
n
r,/
"
NON-FERROU S
o
,,)
~"
WELD
_
% in. sq
SECTION A-A
STEEL
DRILL
AND TAP
Ra iI for Wood Steps and Floors
II
U
SOCKET MOUNT
o
_D_
IT
17'
~~
~~
,
I
!
I
1-----1
~I
~
~~
,..
1<'
II
?
v.~
",.~,..
I
~~
I
RJ
~)
~t
:;/
/~
~~
~~
SHOP WELDED PLATE OR FLANGE
I
I
SECTION B B
\
II
~~
...
1-"::.
1-=
=
=.
=
---
TEMPORARY BREAK-OFF BAR
(for shipping)
FOR NEWEL POST
MOUNTING DETAILS, SEE PAGES 42 AND 43
~
,I
II
I
PRESS FIT
THROUGH BOLT
34
-- --- - =
--
&
II
U
HANGER BOLT
AND BASE
:::J
ORNAMENTAL TERMINOLOGY
WALL FLANGE
~
REVERSE BEND LINE
HAND CURVED ORNAMENTAL
RAILING PANEL
LATERAL
SCROLL
ORNAMENTAL BALUSTER/PICKET
ORNAMENTAL RAILING PANEL
BALUSTEi/PICKET
TOP CAP/HANDRAIL MOULDING
~
/
VOLUTE
FINIAL (Ball Type)
\
LAMB'S TONGUE
NEWEL/STARTING POSTFORGED, CAST OR TURNED SPINDLES
35
w
0)
ORNAMENTAL TERMINOLOGY
Frieze panel
End Panel
~
Valance panel
(use if lower bar is omitted)
~
Corner bracket
~
Rosette
Ornamental
Column/Pilaster
Continuous panel
Starter panel
Railing panel
TYPICAL DECORATIVE PANELS, BALUSTERS AND COLLARS
ifUv~A.0. . A~ J (fA3
/ J, c/ \ 1#
V~$v
J
I.
o
HL
I1~
n
Ie
-
\
l~
I
-~
~~~.di.i
IF":?'>'~ '11~'~
li.l ,f I>,! II.I!'
#.
,:;
I I
i
!
I
l
fl,
'I
I
Iql i
~
~,
e.l\,.,
*
rll
I
37
TYPICAL DECORATIVE PANELS
38
TERMINALS, FINIALS, CAPS, COLLARS, BASES
HANDRAIL FITTINGS, TERMINALS
POST CAPS
LAMB'S TONGUES
VOLUTE
CORNER BEND
END PIECE
ROSETIES
FORGED LAMB'S TONGUE, VOLUTE
COLLARS, BASES, FLANGES
LATERAL SCROLL
URN BASE
ADJUSTABLE
BASE FOR
ORNAMENTAL
COLUMNS
WALL
FLANGE
LOAFERS
RAIL
URN BASE
URNS, BALL FINIALS
COLLARS, BASES, FLANGES
39
TYPICAL HANDRAil PROFILES
CONSULT MANUFACTURERS' CATALOGS FOR DETAILS
STEEL
BRONZE
(j
V
v=
~
~
~
VINYL PLASTIC
ct
ff
ff
STAINLESS STEEL
ALUMINUM
ID
~A
~
~
~
c; =0
WOOD
0
1
~
(
:J)
II
J
I
~
C :)
TYPICAL BRACKETS FOR MOUNTING HANDRAILS ON POSTS OR WALLS
POST MOUNTING, HORIZONTAL
POST OR WALL MOUNTING, VERTICAL
--'.
o
ALUMINUM
BRONZE
STAINLESS STEEL
ALUMINUM
WALL MOUNTING-VERTICAL
ALUMINUM
40
POST MOUNTING, VERTICAL
ALUMINUM
ANCHORAGE OF WAll HANDRAilS
Typical Wall Handrail Brackets, Various Styles and Metals
r
CAST:
Malleable iron
Aluminum
Bronze
STAMPED:
Steel
Aluminum
Stainless Steel
-~~---
o
EXTRUDED:
Aluminum
Bronze
MACHINED:
Aluminum
Bronze
Stainless Steel
ANCHORAGE METHODS FOR HANDRAil WAll BRACKETS
ANCHORAGE TO DRY WALL OR PLASTER
% in.
% in. lag screw
sheet-metal
screw into
metal back-up platemetal spacer
into wood blockmetal spacer
ADEQUATE WOOD OR METAL BACK-UP SUPPORT
FOR ANCHORING HAND-RAIL BRACKET SHALL BE
PUT IN PLACE BY OTHERS BEFORE PLASTER OR
DRY WALL IS INSTALLED.
Bracket drilled
for 3 screws.
Sheet metal screws
into metal
back-up platemetal spacer
Toggle Bolt
through metal
back-up
plate
Back-up plate
for anchoring
handrail
brackets
ANCHORAGE TO CONCRETE
% in.
lag screw or
machine bolt into
expansion shield
BRACKET WITH
THROUGH HOLE
% in, hanger bolt
into expansion shield
h
=
height to top of rail
minus 2 in.
BRACKET WITH
TAPPED HOLE
41
ANCHORAGE METHODS FOR RAILING POSTS
MOUNTED ON STRINGERS AND FACIAS
DECK
WATERPROOFING
"~
DOUBLE
BLOCKING
~
BACK-UP
PLATE
FIELD-WELDED TO
EMBEDDED PLATE
ANGLE FLANGE,
BOLTED THROUGH
WOOD BLOCKING
---,fLDECK
WATERPROOFING
"~
\I\
ANGLE
FLANGE
I
SHOP-WELDED
TO PLATE
I
DOUBLE
BLOCKING
~/\1\~
'--
ANGLE FLANGE,
LAG SCREWS INTO
WOOD BLOCKING
ALUMINUM FLANGE, BOLTED TO FACIP
SHOP-WELDED ANGLE
OR BAR FLANGE,
BOLTED TO FACIA
TAiP OR USE
THRU BOLT
AND NUT
WELDED PLATE, BOLTED TO
TOP OF CHANNEL
WELD OR
BOLT THRU
POST AND
SPACER
WELD
~
POST FIELD-WELDED
TO CHANNEL
SPACER
WELDED OR BOLTED
TIGHT CONNECTIONS AND A RIGID SUPPORTING STRUCTURE ARE OF THE UTMOST IMPORTANCE.
THE LATTER MUST BE ASSURED BEFORE A RAILING SYSTEM IS INSTALLED.
42
ANCHORAGE METHODS FOR RAILING POSTS
MOUNTED ON TREADS OR FLOOR
2 in. min
2 in. min
11~~~
2 in.
min
FLANGE
OPTIONAL
:--L.7~==6;fp.,......,
/>
SHOP WELDED TO FLANGE
SHOP·WELDED TO PLATE
(round or square)
steel only
(steel only)
PRE·SET SLEEVE
METAL OR FIBRE
permanent or removable
FIELD·WELDED TO
EMBEDDED PLATE
(steel only)
CORE· DRILLED HOLE
Metal Pan
filled
THROUGH·BOLTS
PITCH POCKET
for roof top
BACK-UP PLATE
DRILL PLATE FOR
CLOSE FIT TO POST
DOUBLE
BLOCKING
LAG SCREWS INTO WOOD
(round or square plate)
THROUGH BOLTS
(where accessible from below)
RAILING POST ANCHORAGE- PULL OUT LOAD FOR FASTENERS
P--~_--,....J
P
P
Explanation of Symbols:
P = Horizontal load at top of post
h = Height G~ post above attachment
a= Width of flange in direction of load
b = Distance between fasteners in direction of load
d = Distance of fastener on pull-out side of post to opposite edge
of mounting plate or flange.
n = Number of fasteners for each post.
To find pull-out load for each fastener, multiply load (P) by height (h); divide
by distance (d); divide by number of fasteners on pull-out side (n/2).
.c
Pull-out load =
Pxh
d x n/2
Given:
Load P =200 Ibs
Example:
Heighth =42 in.
Base plate 4 in. sq. (a) with 4 fasteners on 3 in. centers (b),
distance (d)=3 1hin.
0
0
Pull-out load for each fastener:
I
D
0
Jj
I
I
I
I
0
b
d
a
j<
I
~-
+;t
P x h
d x n/2=
200 x 42
= 1200 Ibs
3.5 x 2=
Fastener Selection:
Multiply pull-out load by appropriate safety factor. Select suitable fastener
according to data in manufacturer's catalog.
Tight connections and a rigid supporting structure are of the utmost importance. The latter must be assured before railing system is installed. 43
MEASURING STAIRS
When measuring eXisting stairs, provide all the information needed. To make a fullsize shop layout, draw a profile of the stair and note all dimension lines shown for
each part of the stair, using the arrangement plan best suited to actual job conditions (see example, plan Nos. 1,2 and 3). Measure every dimension that is indicated
or preferably use one of the various trade-practice systems shown on pages 46
and 47. Do not assume that dimensions for similar conditions will be the same.
Prepare an accurate sketch for each layout. Check pitch of platforms to maintain
required railing height.
B
SEE PLAN
3
2
Required Tools:
Steel Tape or Rule
Square
Plumb Line
Sketch Board
Level
SHORT RUN STAIR PROFILE
The angle
the corner
be verified
measuring
of
can
by
diagonal.
G,
Plan No.1
44
Plan NO.2
Plan NO.3
SEE PLAN
B
IN ADDITION TO DIM., INDICATE NUMBER
OF TREADS FOR B, H1 , H2 , ETC.
<C
C\J
u..
LONG RUN STAIR PROFILE
NOTE: PHOTO COPIES OF SHORT OR LONG RUN STAIR
PROFILES AND PLANS SHOWN HERE MAY BE USED TO
FACILITATE TAKING FIELD MEASUREMENTS WHEN THESE
SKETCHES ARE ADEQUATE.
/////
///
'///
////~
////////~
//
""7I'-
~
1
.1-
1
.1-
rfG 1 ~ 't G2
~ '+G
3
H1
<-fG 4
~
V
V
//
~
H2
////////////////~
B
Plan NO.1
Plan NO.3
SEE NOTES SHOWN FOR
SHORT RUN STAIR MEASUREMENTS.
Plan NO.2
45
MEASURING STAIRS, USING TRADE PRACTICE METHODS
I
-l
W
3:
ZW
oZ
-w
w::c
zfW
w
.S
";0':::
+1
B
't.
IF NEWELS ARE CUT TO UNIFORM STOCK LENGTHS, THE
3% in. DIMENSION IS MAINTAINED BY ADJUSTING THE
LOCATION OF THE FIRST
NEWEL POST ON THE TREAD
SO AS TO ACCOMMODATE
THE PITCH OF THE STAIR
AND MAINTAIN UNIFORM
RAIL HEIGHT.
NEWEL POST
I
~w
O~
~O
::co
f--l
.S
"$!.
C')
MARK LINE AT NOSINGS TO COMBINE
BOTH BEVEL AND STAIR MEASUREMENT
ON STRAIGHT EDGE.
\
TO TAKE BEVEL: SCRIBE LINE TO MARK
BEVEL ON WOOD WITH PLUMBED LEVEL
IN POSITION AS SHOWN.
NOTE: STRAIGHT EDGE METHOD MAY BE USED TO COMBINE
BOTH STAIR MEASUREMENT AND BEVEL BY MARKING NOSINGS
AND CARRYING STRAIGHT EDGE BACK FOR SHOP LAYOUT USE.
SEE EXAMPLE
METHOD OF USING
LEVEL : \
COMBINATION SQUARE WITH LEVEL
TO FIND ACCURATE BEVEL FROM ONE TREAD AND RISER:
PLACE LEVEL AND COMBINATION SQUARE
AS SHOWN AND TAKE DIMENSIONS A AND B.
TO CONVERT A - B DIMENSIONS INTO
READING OF SLOPE IN INCHES PER FOOT:
EXAMPLE: A = 7% in., B = 10Va in.
S
=
7.5 x 12 -;- 10.125
S = 8.89 in. = 8% ( + ) to 12 Pitch
TO CONVERT A - B DIMENSIONS TO
ANGLE IN DEGREES BY CALCULATOR:
EXAMPLE: A = 7% in., B = 10Va in. (TAN
TANGENT = 7.5 -;- 10.125 = 0.741
0.741 INVERTED TO ANGLE = 36.5"
FROM A NATURAL FUNCTION
OF NUMBERS TABLE
46
MAY BE CONVERTED TO DEGREES
FROM SMOLEY'S BEVEL TABLE
= A -;- B)
METHOD TO MEASURE AND MARK IRREGULAR STAIRS
SO THAT VERTICAL POSTS AT EACH TREAD
WILL BE OF SAME LENGTH
I
STEP No.1
HOLD THIS
DIMENSION AT
ALL TREADS
SET COMBINATION SQUARE
TO LOCATE FIRST POST
AND MARK TREAD
WITH CENTER PUNCH.
STEP NO.2
MARK ALL TREADS WHERE
COMBINATION SQUARE TOUCHES
THE TREAD WITH
CENTER PUNCH TO
INDICATE POST CENTER.
STEP No.3
SCRIBE VERTICAL POST CENTERLINES
ON PITCH STICK BY USING
LEVEL AT EACH PUNCH MARK.
USE OF PITCH STICK TO TAKE
FIELD MEASUREMENTS FOR
IRREGULAR STAIRS
HOLD DIMENSION A
THE SAME FOR
ALL TREADS
STEP NO.1
MEASURE DISTANCE A (GIVEN) BACK FROM
NOSING AT EACH TREAD AND MARK
TREAD WITH CENTER PUNCH.
LEVE L --"JI""
A
A
MARK NOSING AT TOP
e
I
STEP NO.2
SCRIBE VERTICAL POST CENTERLINES
BY USING LEVEL AT
EACH CENTER PUNCH.
STEP NO.3
CENTER PUNCH
EACH TREAD
MEASURE DISTANCE h" h2 , h3
..... AND NOTE THESE DIMENSIONS
AT THEIR RESPECTIVE PLACES
ON PITCH STICK.
47
EXAmPLES OF
CUSTom DESIGNED RAILS
The photographs shown in the following pages are intended to convey ideas for the design of ornamental
rails. They represent some of the better installations
of recent years and they are meant to suggest the unlimited possibilities open to the designer. Some of the
examples may not meet all current requirements'as set
forth in this manual.
48
TliESE PHOTOGRAPHS ARE FOR DESIGN IDEAS ONL Y AND MAY NOT MEET THE DESIGN REQUIREMENTS AS SET FORTH IN THIS MANUAL
49
50
THESE PHOTOGRAPHS ARE FOR DESIGN IDEAS ONLY AND MAY NOT MEET THE DESIGN REQUIREMENTS AS SET FORTH IN THIS MANUAL
11
12
niESE PHOTOGRAPHS ARE FOR DESIGN IDEAS ONLY AND MAY NOT MEET THE DESIGN REQUIREMENTS AS SET FORTH IN THIS MANUAL
51
13
14
15
52
TliESE PHOTOGRAPHS ARE FOR DESIGN IDEAS ONLY AND MAY NOT MEET THE DESIGN REQUIREMENTS AS SET FORTH IN THIS MANUAL
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THESE PHOTOGRAPHS ARE FOR DESIGN IDEAS ONLY AND MA Y NOT MEET THE DESIGN REQUIREMENTS AS SET FORTH IN THIS MANUAL
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THESE PHOTOGRAPHS ARE FOR DESIGN IDEAS ONL Y AND MAY NOT MEET THE DESIGN REQUIREMENTS AS SET FORTH IN THIS MANUAL
TllESE PHOTOGRAPHS ARE FOR DESIGN IDEAS ONLY AND MA Y NOT MEET THE DESIGN REQUIREMENTS AS SET FORTH IN THIS MANUAL
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APPENDICES
PAGE
Glossary of Terms for Metal Stairs and Railings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Miscellaneous Metal Fabrications
Guidelines for product classifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Products and Comments (Section 05500). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Guidelines for Ornamental and Miscellaneous Steel Welding Standard
(including references to related products). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
60
61
74
76
81
GLOSSARY OF
TERms FOR mETAL STAIRS
AND RAiliNGS
AS PREPARED BY THE STANDARDS COMMITIEE OF THE NATIONAL ORNAMENTAL &
MISCELLANEOUS METALS ASSOCIATION, WITH COOPERATION OF THE NATIONAL
ASSOCIATION OF ARCHITECTURAL METAL MANUFACTURERS, AS A SERVICE TO THE
ORNAMENTAL, MISCELLANEOUS AND ARCHITECTURAL METAL FABRICATING INDUSTRY
ABRASIVE - Hard granular material of varying fineness, used in grinding and/or
polishing, or embedded in metal to provide a nonslip surface.
ALUMILITE - A trade name used by the Aluminum Company of America for its clear or
color-impregnated anodized finishes in aluminum.
ANCHOR - Any device used to secure a building component to adjoining construction or
a supporting member.
ANCHORAGE-Method of tying to adjoining construction or supporting member.
ANGLED STAIR - A stair in which successive flights are at an angle other than 180° to
each other (often 90°), with an intermediate platform between them.
ANNEAL - To heat above the critical or recrystallization temperature and then cool metal,
glass or other materials, to eliminate the effects of cold working, relieve internal stresses
or improve electrical, magnetic or other properties; to soften.
ANODIC COATING - The surface finish resulting from anodizing. See Anodize.
ANODIZE - To provide a hard non-corrosive oxide film on the surface of a metal, particularly aluminum, by electrolytic action in which the metal being treated serves as the anode.
ARC WELDING - A process for the joining of metal parts by fusion, with the necessary
heat being produced by an electric arc struck between an electrode and the metal or
between two electrodes.
AS FABRICATED-a) A term referring to the surface appearance and texture or temper
produced on metal mill products by the original forming process. b) A term referring to the
surface appearance of a fabricated metal product before the removal of any disfigurations
caused by the fabricating process.
BALUSTER-One of a series of closely-spaced upright members which support the handrail in a railing. Also referred to as a Picket or Baluster Bar.
BALUSTRADE - A railing which is composed of balusters capped by a handrail, often
serving as an architectural feature.
61
BAR - A round, square, rectangular, hexagonal or similar section of rolled, drawn or
extruded metal.
BAR SIZE SECTION - A hot-rolled angle, channel, tee or zee having a greatest crosssectional dimension less than 3 in. (76.2 mm).
BEND LINE-Point of change of direction of a structure.
BEVEL (of stairs) - See Pitch (of stairs).
BLOW HOLE - A hole or void in a casting, resulting from entrained gases.
BONDERIZE - Chemical treatment of steel surface with proprietary phosphate solution,
to provide limited corrosion protection and improved paint base.
BOTTOM RAIL-Lower member of railing system, supporting balusters or panels, if any.
BRACKET - Projecting member attached to surface of another member, to support third
member.
BRAKING - Mechanical bending, flanging, folding and forming sheet or plate material,
using press brake or folding brake.
BRAZING - The joining of metal parts by heating them and, by capillary action, drawing a
molten copper-zinc or other brazing alloy between them.
BUFFING - The process of providing a lustrous finish by means of power-operated soft
fabric wheels coated with a wax compound containing fine abrasive particles.
BULLNOSE STEP - Stair tread, usually first tread at flight bottom, with one or both ends
having semi-circular or similar shape in plan view.
BURNISHING - Developing smooth, lustrous surface of metal part by tumbling in drum
containing small steel balls or by rUbbing with hard pads.
BUn JOINTING - Fastening squared edge or end of one member to squared edge, end
or face of another member without overlapping.
CANTILEVER -
Portion of member projecting beyond support(s).
CAP - A fitting used to close the end of a pipe or tubular rail or post or the top end of a
tubular newel.
CAP RAIL - See Handrail.
CARBON STEEL - Steel having either 1) no specified minimum content of alloying elements; 2) a specified minimum copper content not exceeding 0.40%, or 3) maximum
specified percentage contents as follows: manganese 1.65, silicon 0.60, copper 0.60.
CARBURIZING - Producing hard surface layer on steel by heating in carbonaceous
medium and subsequent quenching to increase carbon content. Also referred to as
"Case-Hardening. "
CARRIER ANGLE - An angle connected to the inside face of a stair stringer to form a
supporting ledge for the end of a tread or riser. Also referred to as Pitch Block.
62
CARRIER BAR - A flat bar used in the same way as a carrier angle.
CARRIERS - A term used for carrier angles or bars used to support treads formed from
metal steps and gratings.
CASE-HARDENING - See Carburizing.
CASTING - A product formed by pouring molten metal into a mold.
CAST IRON - A hard, brittle, non-malleable metal which can be produced in any shape. It
cannot be hammered or bent. It is used for many miscellaneous metal products. Both
functional and decorative, it has good resistance to corrosion.
CAUSTIC DIPPING - Immersing metal in alkaline solution to chemically clean its surface.
CAUSTIC ETCH - A decorative matte texture produced on aluminum alloys by treatment
in an alkaline solution, generally caustic soda (sodium hydroxide); also known as "frosted
finish."
CEMENT, QUICK SEITING - Used in the installation of railing posts set in sleeves or
holes.
CHAMFER-To bevel a sharp edge.
CIRCULAR STAIR - A stair which, in plan view, has an open circular form with a single
center of curvature. See also Spiral Stair.
CLIP - Small fastening device, usually of metal, to hold element or component in place by
mechanical action or friction.
COLD-FINISHED STEE-. -- Carbon steel which has been cleaned and pickled, then rolled
or drawn through dies to produce a dimensionally accurate section with improved surface
finish and often other improved properties.
COLD ROLLING - Bringing metal sheet, plate or bar to final thickness and finishing by
passing between heavy rollers without heating.
COLLAR - See Escutcheon.
COLUMN - A structural member which is subjected principally to axial compression
loading.
CONSTRUCTION JOINT-Discontinuity in structure.
COPE - To cut away a portion of one member, either to form a close-fitting joint with, or
provide clearance for, another member.
CORROSION-The decay of metals, usually from oxydation.
COR-TEN - The trade name used by the United States Steel Corporation for its weathering type of steel. See Weathering Steel.
COUNTERBORING - Enlarging entrance of hole for placing bolt head or nut.
COUNTERSINKING - Beveling end of hole for receiving conical head of flat- or oval-head
fastener.
63
COVER FLANGE - See Escutcheon.
CURVED STAIR - A stair which, in plan view, has two or more centers of curvature, being
oval, elliptical or some other compound curved form.
DECKING - Light-gauge fluted, ribbed or cellular, sheet-metal platform for supporting
floor or roof.
DEFLECTION - Bending or sagging deformation of member.
DRAINAGE HOLE-See Vent Hole.
DRAWING - The process of pulling metal in solid form through dies to alter its finish,
mechanical properties or cross-sectional shape.
DRAWINGS-Architectural and structural plans, often prepared by architect or engineer.
They should indicate by plan, elevation, section and detail the location, quantity, size and
extent of product to be furnished.
DRAWINGS, SHOP - See Shop Drawings.
DRIFT PIN - Tapered, round rod used to align holes in two or more pieces of metal.
DROP (Stairs) - A fitting used to close the bottom end of a tubular newel.
DURANODIC - Trade name used by the Aluminum Company of America for its hard
anodic coatings. See Hard Anodic Coating.
EASEMENT (Stairs) - That curved portion of a handrail which forms a transition in a
vertical plane, between a horizontal and an inclined section of the handrail.
ELASTIC LIMIT - The maximum unit stress which can be applied to a material without
causing permanent deformatio'l
EMBED-To cast into concrete.
EMBOSSED - Having a raised and/or indented pattern impressed on either one or both
surfaces (of a sheet material) by means of patterned rolls or stamping dies.
ESCUTCHEON - Protective or ornamental cover located usually at and around base of
post or picket, baluster, or where a rail terminates against a wall. Also referred to as Cover
Flange, Collar, Wall Clip or Wall Flange.
EXPANSION JOINT-A control joint designed to allow for differential movement of the joining parts due to thermal expansion and/or contraction, eliminating moment transfer.
EXTRUSION - a) The process of producing metal shapes by forcing heated metal
through an orifice in a die by means of a pressure ram. b) Any item made by this process.
FABRICATE - To manufacture, form, assemble or construct metal products.
FACTOR OF SAFETY - The ratio of minimum yield stress or minimum ultimate stress to
design or working stress.
FASCIA - a) In general, a horizontal band treatment on a wall, or the edge facing of a
projecting element. b) In metal stairs, the exposed facing of the outer edge of a platform or
floor; usually similar in detail to the face stringer.
64
FASCIA MOUNT - See Side Mount.
FATIGUE - Structural failure of a material caused by repeated or fluctuating application of
stresses, none of which individually is sufficient to cause failure.
FERROUS METAL - Metal in which iron is the principal element.
FIELD CHECK - Verification of existing dimensions against those shown on drawing prior
to fabrication.
FIELD JOINT - A connection between two adjoining members or parts, made at the time
of installation.
FIELD MEASURE-Survey of existing conditions.
FILL (Stairs) - A cementitious material, such as concrete or terrazzo, which is placed over
a metal substructure to provide the wearing surface of a tread or platform.
FINIAL-An ornamental piece on top of railing post, newel or fence. Also referred to as Urn.
FLAT - Rectangular bar of width greater than its thickness.
FLIGHT - An uninterrupted series of steps.
FLIGHT HEADER - See Header, Flight.
FLIGHT RISE - The vertical distance between the floors or platforms connected by a
flight.
FLIGHT RUN - The horizontal distance between the faces of the first and last risers in a
flight.
FLOOR PLATE - Steel plate having a raised pattern to provide a non-slip wearing surface; referred to as "tread plate" when made of aluminum.
FLUSH BOLT - A rod or bolt which is mounted flush with the edge or face of the inactive
door of a pair, to lock the door to the frame at the head and/or still. When mounted in the
edge, operation is by means of a recessed lever.
FORGING - Heating and hammering metal into a desired shape.
FORMING - The process of shaping metal by mechanical action other than machining,
forging or casting.
GAGE-See Gauge
GALVANIC CORROSION - The electrochemical action which takes place when dissimilar metals are in contact in the presence of an electrolyte, with the extent of corrosion
being governed by both the difference in potential between the two metals and the relative
areas of the metal parts.
GALVANIZING - The process of coating metal with zinc, either by dipping in a bath of
molten zinc, by mechanical coating or electrolytic action.
GAUGE-a) A number indicating the thickness of metal or the diameter of a wire or a
fastener shank, in accordance with a standard series of numbers, each of which represents
a certain decimal fraction of an inch (or number of millimeters).b) The distance, in inches,
between adjacent lines of holes or fasteners.
65
GENUINE WROUGHT IRON - Low carbon content used for finer types of decorative iron
works where resistance to corrosion is of value. Suppliers are somewhat limited. When
Genuine Wrought Iron is specified, the words "wrought iron" are not sufficient, and this
term may denote any carbon steel. Therefore, in specifying, it is important that the words
"Genuine Wrought Iron" be used. Also see Wrought Iron.
GRAB RAIL (Grab Bar) - A short length of rail located for safety and convenience.
GRINDING - Removing metal from a surface by means of abrasive action.
GRIT - Granular abrasive material such as aluminum oxide or silicon carbide, which may
be coated on cloth, paper or wheels for sanding, grinding or polishing purposes. Also used
as surface roughener for metal to provide non-slip surface.
GRIT NUMBER - The grain size of an abrasive used for grinding or polishing metal. Also,
the degree of fineness of a metal finish produced by that abrasive. Grit numbers are in an
ascending order from coarse to fine.
GUARDRAIL SYSTEM-Rail system usually located for protection of building occupants
at or near outer edge of stair, ramp, landing, platform, balcony or accesible roof; at
perimeter of any opening or accessible surface, such as opening for stairway; or at location where operating condition requires limitation of access to designated area to guard
against accidental falls or injury. See Railing System.
GUSSET - A piece of metal plate used to construct or reinforce a line or angular joint
between two or more metal members.
HAMMERING - Hot or cold, machine or hand peening or denting of metal surfaces for
artistic effect. Also referred to as Swedish Look.
HAND OF SPIRAL STAIR - A term used to designate the turn direction of a stair.
Right-hand refers to a stair on which the user turns counter-clockwise as he ascends.
Left-hand refers to a stair on which the user turns clockwise as he ascends.
HANDRAIL -. Horizontal or sloping member normally grasped by hand. This member may
be part of a railing system and often, but not necessarily, top member (top rail); or may be
mounted on wall or other building element. When part of stair-rail system, it is a member
paralleling the pitch of the flight and is often, but not necessarily, top member. See Wall
Handrail.
HANDRAIL BRACKET - A device attached to a wall, post or other surface to support a
handrail.
HANGER (Stairs) - A load-carrying tension member used to support a stair framing member by suspension from floor construction or other support above.
HARD ANODIC COATING - A coating on aluminum by a proprietary anodizing process,
without the use of dyes or pigments. It provides a high resistance to abrasion and corrosion and is produced in various shades of bronze and gray, as well as black.
HEADER, FLIGHT - A horizontal structural member used in stair construction at a floor or
platform level to support the end(s) of one or more stringers.
HEADER, PLATFORM - A horizontal structural member supporting stair platform construction but carrying no stringers.
HEADING - The process of "upsetting" or enlarging the end of a piece of metal.
66
HEADROOM - The minimum vertical distance from the top surface of a stair tread or
platform to the ceiling, soffit or other overhead obstruction, measured at the outer edge of
a tread.
HIGH-STRENGTH LOW-ALLOY STEEL - Steel having a chemical composition specifically developed to impart higher mechanical property values and, in some cases, greater
resistance to atmospheric corrosion than is obtainable from conventional carbon structural
steels.
HOT DIP GALVANIZING - The process or result of applying a protective coating to
ferrous metal by dipping in a bath of molten zinc.
HOT ROLLED - Shaped by passing a heated billet between rollers.
HOT WORKING - The process of forming a metal when its temperature is higher than its
recrystallization temperature.
I.P.S. - Iron pipe size; the nominal inside-diameter dimension of pipe.
KALCOLOR - The trade name used by Kaiser Aluminum and Chemical Corporation for
its hard anodic coatings. See Hard Anodic Coating.
KICK PLATE - a) A protective plate fastened to the lower face or faces of a door. b) A
vertical plate forming a lip or low curb at the open edge of a stair platform or floor, or at the
back edge or open end of a stair tread, on an open riser stair. Also referred to as Toe
Plate, Toe Board.
KNOB - An ornamental or functional round handle on a door; may be used to actuate a
lock or latch.
KNOCKED DOWN - A term used in reference to any product that is shipped disassembled, for assembly at the bUilding site; commonly abbreviated "KD."
LAMB'S TONGUE - An ornamental curved and tapered fitting terminating a handrail.
LANDING - Level part of staircase at end of stair flight. See Platform.
LAP SEAM - Joint formed by overlapping edges of metal sheets or plates and joining
them by riveting, welding, soldering or brazing.
LATERAL SCROLL - A fitting which curves in a horizontal plane, used to terminate a
stair handrail. Often ends up as a round plate covering the top of a post.
LAY OUT-To scale out configuration of structure.
LINTEL - A horizontal structural member spanning a wall opening at its head to support
the wall above the opening.
MALLEABLE IRON - A sand cast iron which is annealed and can be bent cold to some
degree. It is used in many metal building products where strength and ability to resist
shock are essential. It is easily welded without danger of cracking by the same method
used for welding steel.
MAYARI-R STEEL - Trade name used by Bethlehem Steel Corporation for its type of
Weathering Steel. See Weathering Steel.
MECHANICAL COATING - The process of applying a protective coating to ferrous metal
by hammering zinc powder or flakes into metal surface with glass pellets during tumbling.
67
MECHANICAL CONNECTION (Railing) - A connection between railing members made
by means other than welding or adhesive bonding.
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES - Properties characterizing response to applied forces,
such as strength, stiffness, elasticity and ductility.
METALLIZE - To apply a coating of metal, usually in a powdered or molten form, on a
base metal or other material.
MID RAIL-Rail located between top and bottom rails.
MILL FINISH - The original surface finish produced on a metal mill product by rolling,
extruding or drawing.
MILL SCALE - The scaly oxidized surface produced on steel by heating and hot rolling.
MOCKUP-A section of a structure or assembly, built full size or to scale, for purposes of
testing its performance, studying its construction details or judging its appearance.
MOLD - A form into which molten metal is poured to produce a casting.
NEWEL - A post member, usually square or rectangular in cross section, supporting the
end of a stair railing or seNing as a common support for two stair railings.
NON-FERROUS - Metal without any iron content.
NOSING - That part of a stair tread or platform which projects as a square, rounded or
rounded and molded edge beyond the vertical face of the riser below it.
PAN BRACKET (Stairs) - See Carrier Angle or Carrier Bar.
PAN TREAD (Stairs) - See Tread, Pan Type.
PANEL-Portion of railing between posts, top rail and bottom rail.
PARALLEL STAIR - A stair consisting of flights which parallel each other and are separated on') by one or more intermediate platforms.
PATTERN - Model for making mold into which molten material is poured to produce
casting; to reproduce like image in mold.
PERFORATING - Punching or drilling an overall pattern of holes or openings in sheet
metal.
PERFORMANCE-Conformance with established criteria.
PERMANENT-Functioning indefinitely without fundamental or marked change; in contrast
to temporary.
PERMANENT SET-The extent to which a component or structure is permanently deformed
by an applied load after removal of the load.
PHOSPHATIZING - The process of producing a phosphate conversion coating on metal
by dipping it in a suitable aqueous solution of phosphoric acid, to improve paint adhesion
and increase corrosion resistance.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES - Material properties, such as specific gravity or density, electrical and thermal conductivities, and coefficient of thermal expansion, seNing to characterize and to distinguish between different kinds of matter.
68
PICKET-One of a series of closely-spaced upright members which support the handrail
in a railing. See baluster.
PICKET CASTING - Ornamental design attached to a picket.
PICKET RAILING-Railing consisting of posts, pickets, top rail and, sometimes, bottom rail.
PICKLING - The treatment of metal surfaces with a strong oxidizing agent, such as nitric
acid, to make them chemically clean and provide a strong, inert oxide film.
PIPE RAILING-Railing fabricated of pipe.
PIPE, ROUND - A hollow round section of metal, the size of which is usually designated
by nominal inside diameter in inches (or millimeters).
PITCH-The inclination or slope, measured either in degrees, percent, or by the ratio
of rise to run.
PITCH DIMENSION (Stairs) - The distance between the bases of the top and bottom
risers in a flight, measured parallel to the slope. Sometimes referred to as the nose to nose
dimension.
PITCH BLOCK - See Carrier Angle.
PITTING - Localized surface defects on metal, in the form of small depressions or "pits,"
usually caused by electrochemical corrosion.
PLATE-Flat Metal .180" or over in thickness and over 8" in width.
PLATFORM (Stairs) - A horizontal surface haVing a dimension parallel to the stringer
greater than a tread width and occurring in a stair at the end of a flight or between flights,
either at a floor level or between floors. In the latter case, it is sometimes referred to as an
intermediate platform or landing.
PLATFORM HEADER - See Header, Platform.
POCKET-Opening provided in structure to accept post, rail-supporting bracket or structural member.
POST (Railing) - A vertical, supporting member of a railing system.
PRIMER - liqUid coating applied to surface prior to application of paint or other finish.
PRIMER PAINT - First coat applied to metal to retard corrosion temporarily and to provide
satisfactory adhesion of finish coat.
PUNCHING - A process of forcing a punch through the metal into a die, forming a hole in
the shape of the punch.
QUENCHING - The process of cooling heated metal by contact with a liquid, gas or solid,
for purposes of hardening or tempering.
RAIL - Horizontal, vertical or inclined member of railing system. See Railing System,
Handrail, Wall Handrail, Stair Rail System.
RAILING-See Railing System.
69
RAILING SYSTEM - A framework of horizontal, vertical or inclined members or panels, or
some combination of these, supporting a handrail and located at the edge of a stair flight,
platform or floor, as a safety barrier. See Guard Rail System and Stair Rail System.
RAKE - See Pitch.
RAKE DIMENSION - SeePitch Dimension.
RAMP RAIL SYSTEM-A railing system located along side(s) of ramp.
RESIDUAL DEFLECTION-See Permanent Set.
RISE - See Flight Rise.
RISER - The vertical or inclined face of a step, extending from the back edge of one tread
to the outer edge of the tread or lower edge of the nosing next above it.
RISER, OPEN - A term used to describe a stair having open spaces rather than risers
between treads.
RISER HEIGHT - The vertical distance between the top surfaces of two successive
treads.
RUN - See Flight Run and Tread Run.
SADDLE - See Threshold.
SAFETY NOSING - A stair nosing having an abrasive nonslip surface flush with the tread
surface.
SAFETY TREAD - A stair tread which is covered on its top surface with an abrasive or
nonslip material.
SAND BLASTING - Subjecting to a stream of sand projected at high velocity under air or
steam pressure, for the purpose of removing scale or encrusted material or to provide a
textured finish.
SANITARY COVE (Stairs) - A small projection formed in the face of a metal riser along its
full length to provide an angled or curved transition between the tread surface and the riser
face, to facilitate cleaning.
SCREEN-Perforated panel or wire mesh serving as a panel.
SCROLL-Ornamental spiral or convoluted form serving, e.g., as decorative railing panel
or insert, either cast or forged.
SHEET-Thin, flat, rolled metal product having mill or cut edges, less than .229 II in thickness.
SHOP DRAWING-A working drawing usually prepared by the fabricator.
SIDE MOUNT - Railing support anchoring post to vertical surface, such as fascia or
stringer face.
SLAG - The crusty residue resulting from melting or welding metal.
SLEEVE - a) A tubular section of sheet metal or other material placed in concrete or
masonry to provide either a pocket or opening for the insertion or the penetration of
another item. b) An internal tubular splice between abutting sections of pipe, tubing or
tube-like members.
70
SLIP JOINT - A joint which permits relative sliding movements of the joining parts.
SLOPE-See Pitch.
SOFFIT (Stairs) - Underside of stair in exposed construction. Also, finish material applied
to underside of stair.
SPECIFICATIONS-Document providing descriptive or performance requirements and
criteria.
SPINDLE-A tapered round picket, with center part larger in diameter than ends.
SPIRAL STAIR - A stair with a closed circular form, uniform sector-shaped treads and a
supporting center column.
SPLICE PLATE - A plate used for fastening two or more members together.
SPRAYING - The process of coating metal with paint, another metal or any other material
by use of air or hydraulic pressure.
SQUARES - A term used in reference to square metal bars having either slightly rounded
or sharp corners.
STAIR-A flight or series of connecting flights extending between two or more floors.
STAIR LIFT - See Flight.
STAIR-RAIL SYSTEM - Railing system located along open sides of stair and landing.
STAIR RUN - One run of stairs between floors, platforms or floors and platforms.
STAIRWAY - See Stair.
STAIR WELL - The vertical shaft space in a building occupied by a stair; also, the open
well space between a series of flights.
STEP - The combination of a riser and the tread immediately above it.
STIFFENER - A reinforcing member which serves to prevent or limit the deformation of
the member to which it is attached.
STRAIGHT RUN STAIR - Stair extending in straight line between two floors and consisting of single flight or series of flights with one or more intermediate platforms.
STRING - See Stringer, the preferred term.
STRINGER (Stair) - An inclined structural member supporting a flight of stairs, or a
structural member having an inclined section with a horizontal section at one or both ends,
supporting a flight and one or two platforms.
STRINGER, BOXED - A stringer having a hollow square or rectangular cross section.
STRINGER, CENTER - A stringer located under a flight at its mid-width and supporting
the treads, or treads and risers.
STRINGER, CLOSED - See Stringer, Boxed.
STRINGER, FACE - A stringer which supports, on one side, the ends of treads and risers,
and is exposed on the other side.
71
STRINGER, OPEN - A structural channel used as a stringer.
STRINGER, PLATE - A flat plate used as a stringer.
STRINGER, PLATFORM - A stringer, or that part of a stringer, which is used to support a
platform.
STRINGER, TUBE - A stringer made from a metal tube section.
STRINGER, WALL - A stringer placed alongside a wall, and usually carrying no railing.
STRIP - Flat metal, .229" or less in thickness and 12" or less in width.
STRUT - A vertical compression member designed to resist axial loads.
SUB-TREAD - See Tread, Pan Type.
SWEDISH IRON LOOK - See Hammering.
TACK WELD - a) A small temporary weld applied to metal parts to hold them in correct
position while completing an assembly. b) One of a series of small welds applied where a
continuous weld is unnecessary.
TEMPERING - Heating metal, glass or other material to temperature below transformation stage, sUbsequently cooling it at controlled rate to change its hardness, strength,
toughness or other property.
TEMPLATE - a) A pattern used as a guide in fabricating a part. b) A precise detailed
layout or pattern for providing the necessary fabrication details.
TENSILE STRENGTH - The maximum load which can be sustained by metal in tension
measured in pounds per square inch.
THRESHOLD - A raised member extending between the jambs of a door frame at the
floor.
TOE BOARD - See Kick Plate.
TOE PLATE - See Kick Plate.
TOLERANCE - Permissible deviation from a nominal or specified dimension or value.
TOP RAIL-The top member of a rail system, sometimes called cap rail.
TRAFFIC RAIL SYSTEM - A railing system designed for the control of movement of
people, requiring special consideration for given end-use conditions.
TRANSFER RAIL SYSTEM - Railing system designed for transfer of body weight in such
locations as toilets, showers and tub enclosures.
TREAD - The horizontal member of a step.
TREAD DEPTH - The tread run plus the projection of the nosing, if any.
TREAD, GRATING TYPE - Tread fabricated from metal grating.
TREAD LENGTH - The dimension of a tread measured perpendicular to the normal line
of travel on a stair.
TREAD PAN - A section formed from sheet metal to receive a fill and provide, when filled,
either a tread or combination tread and riser.
72
TREAD, PLATE TYPE - A tread, or a combination of tread and riser, fabricated from
metal plate, floor plate, tread plate or a combination of plates.
TREAD RUN - The horizontal distance between two consecutive risers or, on an open
riser stair, the horizontal distance between nosings or the outer edges of successive
treads, all measured perpendicular to the front edges of the nosings or treads.
TUBING - A hollow section of metal having a round, square, rectangular or other crosssectional form. Size is designated by outside dimension(s) in inches or millimeters, and
wall thickness in gauge number, thousandths of an inch, or millimeters, or fraction of an
inch.
UPSETTING - A cold- or hot-forging operation by which the cross-sectional area of a bar
or rod is increased locally.
URNS - See Finials.
VENT HOLE-Opening for escape of gas or liquid or for relief of pressure, especially required
in fabricating when item is to be coated by immersion or hot-dip galvanized. Also referred
to as drainage hole.
VOLUTE (Stairs) - A spiral or scroll-shaped fitting used to terminate a stair handrail.
WALL CLIP or WALL FLANGE - A bracket used for anchoring.
WALL HANDRAIL - Handrail attached to wall adjacent to stair and paralleling pitch of
flight, also used along walkways, ramps and corridors. Also referred to as wall rail.
WALL RAIL-See Wall Handrail.
WALL RETURN - A bend at the end of a wall handrail, turning it toward the wall to which it
is attached.
WEATHERING STEEL - High-strength, low-alloy steel made especially for application
requiring light weight, high strength and resistance to corrosion of approximately 5 to 6
times that of low-carbon steel.
WEEPHOLE-A small opening provided to permit the drainage of fluid.
WELDING - The process of joining two metals or alloys by fusion.
WELDING ROD - Metal rod of suitable composition to be used as a source of filler
material in arc or gas welding.
WINDER - A tread having less width at one end than at the other.
WIRE MESH-See Screen.
WORKING DRAWING-See Shop Drawing.
WROUGHT IRON-Fabricated ornamental work, usually made of mild steel of commercial quality. Also see Genuine Wrought Iron.
73
miSCEllANEOUS mETAL FABRICATIONS
(SECTION 05500)
GUIDELINES FOR PRODUCT ClASSIFICATI N
Purpose
The purpose of this Miscellaneous Metal Fabrications guideline is to clarify and discuss
the extremely broad definition of products and materials generally considered as "Miscellaneous Metal Fabrications."
These guidelines were prepared for use by architects, engineers, builders, building inspectors and miscellaneous metal fabricators to aid in clarifying responsibilities, in standardizing specifications and for guidance in preparing estimates and related activities
within the trades.
Introduction and Discussion
The classification of a product usually is determined by the use of the product in most
documents. This generally groups similar materials in the same division categories.
However, the extremely broad usage of miscellaneous metal fabrications for many diverse
applications requires that there be a clear definition of "Miscellaneous Metal Fabrications"
for each project.
It is the responsibility of the architect, designer and engineer to make the final decision as
to the category in which the product is placed and to state this in the ~pecification. This will
aid in the proper classification of products and prevent omissions.
It is not the intention of this guideline to be rigid in its categorization of items to be
classified as "Miscellaneous Metal Fabrications." There always is a need for flexibility and
for consideration of local practices within the construction industry. The specification writer
is encouraged to exercise his option to give consideration to delivery, to convenience, to
local practices or to any other condition which may be appropriate to accomodate best the
needs of a particular project.
A typical example is a metal roof hatch which, by product usage, could be classified as "roof
accessories" listed in Section 07800 in most contract documents. However, due to the
sequence of construction which may require handling and installation by metal trades, it
may be more expeditious for the metal roof hatch to be specified as furnished under
"Miscellaneous Metal Fabrications," Section 05500. The main consideration is to define
the item in some product classification to establish a bidding procedure. The user of any
product classification documents should be cautioned that "Miscellaneous Metal Fabrications" is not to be interpreted as "all metal products which have not been assigned to
some other division category."
If all items have been defined clearly by product classification, the various trades then can
readily adjust product classification to provide the best economical combination. This
usually establishes local practices. Local miscellaneous metal fabrication shops often
can provide numerous items normally specified under different categories, but specific
terms should be used to avoid classifying them as catch-all suppliers.
74
Guidelines
NOMMA recommends the following information be considered to establish responsibility
for miscellaneous metal fabrications.
The term "miscellaneous metal fabrications" designates a wide variety of customfabricated metal products required by the building construction industry. These items
should be listed in Section 05500 in most documents for product classification. Primarily,
these items are mild carbon steel; however, many items are included which are fabricated
of aluminum, brass, stainless steel and castings of various metals.
Ornamental metal products, a category which includes decorative and normally nonstructural metal items, usually are listed in Section 05700 of most contract documents.
This section is not being elaborated upon in this guideline.
Items which are to be classified as miscellaneous metal fabrications should be indicated in
sufficient detail on the plans, described fully in the specification or referenced to design
standards of the trade, or some combination of the above, so that the fabricator will have
all the data required to fabricate each item. References should be made to accepted
standards, includinq trade manuals, manufacturers' standards and other pertinent material to establish quality of workmanship and materials to be furnished, whenever feasible.
Finish coats are recommended to be field applied whenever possible. All finish requirements, including textures and responsibility for their protections, should be specified in
explicit terminology.
The methods for anchorage of various miscellaneous metal fabrications and the responsibility for setting such anchorage should be given careful consideration. The specification
writer should consider the sequence of the various construction aspects so that responsibility for anchor setting may be appropriately assigned among the trades involved.
If field measurements are necessary in order to prepare accurate shop drawings, it is the
responsibility of the purchaser and the supplier to recognize such need. However, it
normally is the purchaser's responsibility to obtain such measurements and furnish them
to the fabricator.
NOMMA recommends the items on the following pages be included under the specification heading, Miscellaneous Metal Fabrications, Section 05500. However, this classification (Section 05500) is not limited to those items listed on the following pages.
75
PRODUCTS AND commENTS
SECTION 05500
miSCEllANEOUS mETAL FABRICATIONS
This list is to be used as a guideline in determining which division or section would be appropriate
for various items and should, therefore, be helpful in establishing local practices. Since differences
of opinion exist within the bUilding trades concerning the division and section designation of certain
items, these particular items require special consideration.
This special consideration should include specific designation of the division and section for
these items. Also, when custom fabrication is intended for items that normally are catalog items, a
sufficient architectural detail is required. Comments on these items in this listing will be designated:
WHEN DETAILED, OTHERWISE CATALOG ITEM
Products
Comments
access doors and frames *
when detailed, otherwise catalog item
access panels and frames
see access doors and frames
anchors
all types of anchor bolts, expansion bolts, sleeves, inserts,
embedded plates and other items required for the installation of
metal fabrications listed in this section
embedded plates for precast concrete or masonry work are not
included unless special conditions and custom designs for
such items are specifically noted and called for in this section
angles
rolled or formed for corner guards, platform guards, expansion
joints, curb angles, wall bases, clips, etc.
balconies
all structural framing, brackets, platforms and railing
""These items may be in a different division or section according to local practices.
76
PRODUCTS
COMMENTS
bar screens
fabricated to meet requirements for power plant water intakes,
sewage treatment plants, etc.
bar frames, security
bars, bar frames and anchors custom fabricated for door and
window openings
bearing plates
only when not included elsewhere and specifically listed in this
section
bench supports'
brackets, frames, legs when detailed, otherwise catalog item
bicycle racks'
bleacher seat supports
see bench supports
bollards, bumpers, bumper
posts, guard posts
used for protection of hydrants, pumps, loading door jambs,
etc.
bolts and threaded rods
bolts, threaded rods, hanger rods, tie rods, canopy rods, bent
anchor bolts and similar items when listed in this section and
specifically shown on plans
brackets'
brick vents
for openings in masonry and concrete walls
canopies and marquees
framing, hangers, soffits, fascias, columns, when detailed and
specifically listed in this section
catwalks
framing, hangers, metal floors, rails and brackets; usually included in structural steel section when supported by structural
steel framing
caulking
for seams and joints when required for metal-to-metal field
assembly of materials furnished under this section
chimney accessories
dampers, cleanout doors, collars, caps, spark arrestor screens,
tie bands, thimbles and related accessories only when listed
chutes'
clothes poles and rods
when detailed and listed in this section
coal doors and ash doors'
when detailed, include custom-fabricated steel jambs and
guides for coal bins, otherwise catalog item
·These items may be In a different division or section according to local practices.
77
PRODUCTS
COMMENTS
coat and hat racks'
column guards
formed plates, angles, channels and flats
columns and struts
only when not included in structural framing
control joints
shapes, plates, rods, angles and pins joining concrete slabs or
masonry construction
corner guards
see column guards
counter and desk accessories
metal tops, legs, support frames, brackets and clip angles, only
when custom fabricated
covers and frames
fabricated steel or cast iron grating or solid covers for drain
trenches, manholes and similar requirements when detailed
and listed in this section
curb bars and angles
for concrete curbs, platforms, slab edges and concrete stops
divider bars in floors and
masonry
separator bars embedded in concrete or masonry
door accessories'
when detailed and listed in this section, otherwise catalog item
elevator-guide support beams
only when not included in structural framing and listed in this
section
elevator-pit and machine-room
accessories
ladders, rungs, railings, platforms, stairs, woven wire partitions
and guards
expanded metal*
grilles, enclosures, shelves, catwalks, bins, etc., only when
custom fabricated
expansion-control joints
see control joints
expansion joints and covers
non-ferrous and ferrous products for walls, ceilings and floors
fences and gates *
bars, sheets and woven wire panels, only when custom fabricated
fire escapes, stair type
all parts for complete installation
fireplace accessories *
"These items may be
78
In
a different divISion or sectIon according to local practices.
PRODUCTS
floor plates
COMMENTS
non-ferrous and ferrous abrasive, smooth or checkered
surfaces
gratings, frames and supports*
only when custom fabricated
hand rails
non-ferrous and ferrous rails, including brackets
ladders
all types
ladder rungs
non-ferrous and ferrous, wrought and cast, for embedding in
concrete or masonry
lintels
when not attached to structural framing and listed in this
section
mat frames
for recessed floor mats
nosing, stair
non-ferrous and ferrous, cast, extruded, rolled, for all types of
stairs
pipe railings
non-ferrous and ferrous, interior and exterior types
racks *
railing systems and rails
non-ferrous and ferrous, all types, complete, when not specified
under ornamental metals section 05700
roof curbs and frames
only when custom fabricated for openings and hatches and
listed in this section
sewage and water plant items
weir plates, stop gates, baffle plates, bar screens, grooves, etc.
shelf angles for masonry
included, unless in structural section
shelving and supports
when listed in this section
sidewalk doors and grating*
sign framing*
only when custom fabricated and listed in this section
sills, windows and doors
non-ferrous and ferrous, only when listed specifically in schedules on contract drawings and called for in this section
spark arrestors
see chimney accessories
~These
items may be
In
a different diVIsIon or section according to local practices.
79
PRODUCTS
COMMENTS
spires *
stage accessories
ladders, rails, etc.
stairs
non-ferrous and ferrous, all types, complete
stone anchors
only when custom fabricated, detailed on plans and listed in
this section
subframe
only when detailed and listed in this section
thresholds
non-ferrous and ferrous, extruded and cast, rolled shapes and
formed plates, only when specifically listed in schedules and
drawings.
tie rods, straps, special plates,
and other components for wood
trusses and arches (fasteners
normally excluded)
toe plates and guards
normally included as part of railing system and platform work
trap doors *
see access doors
trench covers
see covers and frames
water bars
for windows and similar locations
weather vanes
only when custom fabricated, detailed in plans and specifically
listed
weep pipes
for drainage through walls
wheel guards
cast, rolled, pipe or plates
window stools, casings, and
mullions
only when custom fabricated and specifically listed in schedule
of contract drawings
wood column bases and caps
only when custom fabricated and specified in this section
wood truss accessories
only when custom fabricated and specifically listed in schedule
of contract drawings, with fasteners normally excluded
"These items may be in a different dlvisJon or section accordIng to local practices
80
GUIDELINES FOR ORNAmENTAL AND
miSCEllANEOUS STEEL WELDING STANDARD
INCLUDING REFERENCES TO
RELATED PRODUCTS
Purpose
The purpose of these guidelines is to help clarify the welding requirements for most steel
welding applications. The American Welding Society (AWS) basically is concerned with
welding where the joining of metals is a structural criterion. Welding codes are referenced
to help clarify the welding requirements for given conditions. However, some welding
requirements are imposed by reference to AWS Structural Welding Codes without due
consideration of forces applied to the product. Overbuilt products are not desirable or
needed. Thus, product application must be considered in order to properly discuss welding
applications.
Introduction
These guideliness cover welding requirements applicable to welding steel in many diverse
types of applications. Due to the extremely broad usage of steel, there are varying welding
requirements needed which depend upon the product application. Where the product is
classified in the documents affects the welding requirements for the project. Classifications of products are usually identified by division categories. Most documents use the
following sections for product classification and they are used in this guideline for
reference.
Section No.: 05100
05200
05300
05400
05500
05700
03200
Subject:
Structural Metal Framing
Steel Joists
Metal Decking
Cold-Formed Metal Framing
(Miscellaneous) Metal Fabrications
Ornamental Metal
Concrete Reinforcement
The user of the product classification documents should be cautioned that the products
identified may be recognized by other names and may fall under categories other than the
ones listed. It is the responsibility of the architect, designer and engineer to make the final
decision concerning the category in which the designed product is to be placed and to state
this in the specification. This will prevent products from being incorrectly classified.
Welding Reference
The code for "Welding in Building Construction" has been converted by American Welding
Society into several "Structural Welding Codes" according to welding applications. The
applicable AWS structural welding code needs to be specified according to product classi-
81
fication to govern the proper welding application. The following steel welding codes are
referenced with brief commentaries as to content and scope.
AWS 01.1 Structural Welding Code....Steel
This code covers welding requirements applicable to welded structures to be used in
conjunction with any complementary code or specification for the design and construction
of steel structures.
The base metals to be welded under this code are carbon and low-alloy steels with
thicknesses 1fs in. and greater.
AWS 01.3 Structural Welding Code....Sheet Steel
This specification is applicable to the arc welding of sheet steels or strip steels, or both,
including cold-formed members, 0.180 in. or less in thickness. Such welding may involve
connections of sheet steel or strip, or both, to thicker supporting structural members.
AWS 01.4 Structural Welding Code....Relnforcing Steel
This code shall apply to the welding of concrete reinforcing steel for splices (except for
prestressing steel), steel connection devices, inserts, anchors and anchorage details, as
well as' any other welding required in reinforced concrete construction, both in the fabrication shop and in the field.
manufacturers' Welding Codes
AWS recognizes that manufacturers and fabricators have special joint welding procedures
which may not be precisely defined in the structural welding codes. Provisions to qualify
these welding procedures and the welders and/or equipment are provided by AWS which
specifies that tests be conducted as required for the product usage. The manufacturers or
fabricators of open-web steel joists represent a typical example where precedence has
established the welding procedures; and The Steel Joist Institute (SJI) codes as well as
those of others were created to govern the products. Many manufacturers' and fabricators'
product standards have been established and governed by institutes and associations.
These standards have provided good product performance for many years.
NOmmA Guidelines
NOMMA recommends that all welding procedures be performed in accordance with the
AWS recommendations, using the applicable structural welding code whenever possible.
However, ornamental and miscellaneous steel normally will not require the same welding
considerations or inspection as needed for major steel framing. NOMMA recommends
welding qualifications for ornamental and miscellaneous steel be based upon experience
and practice. NOMMA further recommends that any inspection other than visual inspection by the fabricator should be deleted for ornamental and miscellaneous steel under
normal conditions. If, however, critical inspection is required, NOMMA recommends the
inspection be in accordance with the latest AWS documents. The architect, designer or
engineer shall specify, in the specifications and contract drawings, which products require
such inspection.
AWS 01.1 Structural Welding Code-Steel reads, in part, as follows:
"6.1.3 Certified Welding Inspectors. When AWS Certified Welding Inspectors (CWI) are
to be required, it shall be so stated in information furnished to the bidders and specified in the contract documents."
This means that the automatic referencing of the Code in contract documents will not
82
invoke the certified welding inspector provisions unless the provisions are specifically
required by the contract.
The following guidelines are not intended to serve as a substitute for good engineering
judgment, but to emphasize the quality control procedures which appear necessary to
assure all work is performed to the extent required for the usage of the product. In the light
of this, NOMMA recommends the following guidelines.
Structural metal framing (Section 05100)
When welding structural steel, the welding shall be performed in conformance to the latest
edition of the American Institute of Steel Construction (aISC) and applicable references
to AWS 01.1 Structural Welding Code-Steel. When AWS Certified Welding Inspectors
(CW) or inspection by representatives of the purchaser are required this shall be stated
in prior information furnished to persons responsible for welding and stated in their contract.
Steel Joists (Section 05200)
When welding open-web, long-span, and deep long-span joists and joist girders, joist
substitutes and all accessories, the welding shall be performed to provide adequate
conformance to the Steel Joist Institute's Standard Specifications and Load Tables. This is
also implied in the "Recommended Code of Standard Practice for Open Web and LongSpan Steel Joists."
metal Decking (Section 05300)
When welding metal decking, the welding shall be performed in conformance with recommendations of the Steel Oeck Institute (SOl) and applicable references to AWS 01.1 and/or
01.3-Structural Welding Code-Steel. Inspection, if required, shall be performed and
the quality of the welds be ascertained in accordance with AWS 01.1 and/or 01.3, as
applicable. Such requirement shall be stated in prior information furnished to persons
responsible for welding and stated in their contract.
Cold-fofmed metal framing (Section 05400)
When welding light-gage framing, with a maximum thickness of 5/16 in., the welding shall
be performed in conformance with recommendations of the American Iron and Steel Institute
(AISI) and related references to AWS 01.1 and/or 01.3-Structural Welding Code-Steel. A
CWI should not be required for inspection under normal conditions. However, if inspection
is required, it shall be performed and the quality of the weld be ascertained in accordance
with AWS 01.1 and/or 01.3, as applicable. In the design and construction of steel structures of any steel thickness, in which the loads are carried primarily by tubular members,
as defined in AWS 01.1, Chapter 10, the architect, designer and engineer may take
exception to the above inspection requirement. Thus, they may require a CWI to perform
the inspection of such structures and, if this should be the case, this shall be stated in
prior information furnished to persons responsible for welding and stated in their contract.
miscellaneous metal fabrications (Section 05500)
When welding miscellaneous metal, the welding shall be performed in such a manner as
to produce sound and visually defect-free weldments. Welds shall be made with the
proper selection of filler metals and sized to produce sufficient strength for each application. When there is a question as to proper weld size, joint preparation, filler metal, etc., the
83
latest edition of AWS 01.1, AWS 01.3 or AWS 01.4 shall be used as a guide. The
fabricator shall provide quality-control procedures to the extent necessary to assure that
all welding will provide required performance. However, should inspection be required, it
shall be performed in accordance with the applicable AWS code. A CWI shall not be
needed for the inspection under normal conditions. However, if critical inspection is required,
it shall be performed in accordance with the applicable AWS code.
A thorough study of the products shall be made by the architect, designer and engineer,
since such products as catwalks, elevator-support beams, fire-escape supports, hoist
beams, wall projections for fascias, etc., may require classification in a structural category
for welding requirements. Should this be the case, this shall be stated in prior information furnished to persons responsible for welding and stated in their contract.
Ornamental (Section 05700)
When welding ornamental metal, the welding shall be performed in such a manner as to
produce sound and visually defect-free-'weldments. Welds shall be made with the proper
selection of filler metals and sized to produce sufficient strength for each application.
When there is a question as to proper weld size, joint preparation, filler metal, etc., the
latest edition of AWS 01.1, AWS 01.3 or AWS 01.4 shall be used as a guide. The
fabricator shall provide quality-control procedures to the extent necessary to assure that all
welding will provide required performance. A CWI shall not be needed under normal
conditions. However, should inspection be required, it shall be performed in accordance
with the applicable AWS code.
The product usage should be reviewed by the architect, designer and engineer, as some
products may require classification in a structural welding category. Should this be the
case, this shall be stated in prior information furnished to persons responsible for welding and stated in their contract.
Concrete Reinforcement (Section 03200)
The product usage should be reviewed by the architect, designer and engineer, as some
products may require classification in a structural welding category. Should this be the
case, this shall be stated in prior information furnished to persons responsible for welding and stated in their contract.
Inspection Reccomendatlon
If the loading of a structural joint is less than 50%* of the allowable stresses for
that weldment, in accordance with AWS 01.1-82 stress allowable, it is recommended that formal inspection should not be required.
'This percentage Is the best estimate available at this time because of the lack of actual performance data and is,
thprefore, subject to change.
Reference Sources
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
84
Construction Specification Institute (CSI), 601 Madison St., Alexandria, Va. 22314
American Welding Society (AWS), 550 Le Jeune Rd., Miami, Fla. 33135
Steel Joist Institute (SJI), 1703 Parham Rd., Richmond, Va. 23229
Steel Oeck Institute (SOl), Box 3812, St. Louis, Mo. 63122
American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), 150 East 42nd St., New York, N.Y. 10017

architects designers fabricators installers

Transcription

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