3 m galvanised gate frame section PW-C 80 for 80 mm insulated panels

Forming steel strip into a section gives it a shape that can serve throughout a building frame. Cold-formed sections are used for lightweight roof, wall and cladding members. C, Z and Sigma profiles allow the geometry to suit the supports, connections and covering that will be fixed to them.

Stiffness depends on both the steel and its geometry. The web, flanges and additional folds distribute material through the section and give thin sheet useful structural properties. A channel provides fixing surfaces, a Z section suits different connection layouts and a Sigma profile has additional web folds. This variety makes it easier to detail supports for roofing and cladding. The relationship between weight and function is especially valuable for long, repeated members.

Sections can be ordered to length with scheduled holes. Their dimensions can then suit the frame spacing, wall width or part of the enclosure being built. Prepared connection points reduce measuring and drilling at height. In repeated roof bays, crews can follow the same pattern. Planning the lengths also reduces offcuts. Where the holes are included in series production, their spacing can be kept consistent across many frames.

Sections made from galvanised sheet come with a protective zinc layer. It helps protect the steel from corrosion, including where parts will later be concealed behind roofing or cladding. The finished section can be fitted without forming its cross-section on site. Low individual weight helps with positioning and holding parts while connections are made. These advantages apply to both new buildings and lightweight subframes added to existing structures.

Where specified by the design, cold-formed sections serve as purlins, rails and subframe members. They provide regular fixing lines for steel sheets and sandwich panels and can frame openings or divide a large surface into smaller bays. In a refurbishment they can create a new support plane for cladding. Loads determine the required dimensions, thickness and connections, allowing the same section family to meet different needs in lightweight construction.

SteelProfil supplies competitively priced sections and materials for building frames. The range includes first- and second-grade materials, special offers and stock items. Ask about section sizes, lengths and hole preparation so the components arrive to suit your enclosure.