Simpson Strong-Tie has expanded its product offering for cold-formed steel applications by developing a new line of connectors for use with curtain-wall, steel-stud framing. Unlike other manufacturers' offerings, the new line of slide and fixed-clip connectors has been engineered and tested to eliminate time-consuming calculations required of designers.
"Many other curtain-wall connectors are not tested to take into account the anchorage to the structure. Designers typically have to calculate this key connection manually, which can be complicated when considerations are made for eccentric and prying forces," explained Randy Daudet, cold-formed steel product manager for Simpson Strong-Tie and industry expert with more than 20 years of experience.
Through comprehensive testing Simpson Strong-Tie has virtually eliminated these calculations by providing the connector's load capacity and its attachment to the framing as well as its anchorage to the primary building. "By providing complete data for the entire connection system, designers save time and are reassured that all forces, including eccentric and prying forces, are adequately considered," said Daudet.
The Simpson Strong-Tie pre-engineered connectors accommodate many different bypass framing applications in stand-offs as large as 11 ¼". In addition, the new line includes connectors for head-of-wall and strut applications. All of the standard slide clips accommodate 1" of both upward and downward movement, equivalent to an L/360 live-load deflection for a 30' span. For deflections greater than 1", or stand-offs greater than 11 ¼", Simpson Strong-Tie can provide custom clips to suit most framing needs.
For more information and to download the new Connectors for Cold-Formed Steel Curtain-Wall Construction filer, visit www.strongtie.com/cfsclips.