Purlins & Girts Z Sections
Cold-formed Z-shaped structural members engineered for roof and wall systems in metal buildings and pre-engineered structures. Superior strength-to-weight ratio with exceptional torsional resistance.
Quick Specifications
4" - 12"
- Depth Range
14-16 Gauge
- Steel Thickness
50 ksi
- Min Yield Strength
20' - 40'
- Standard Lengths
Custom
- Length Options
Product Overview
CFT’s Z-section purlins and girts are precision roll-formed structural members designed to provide maximum strength and efficiency in metal building construction. The unique Z-shaped profile delivers superior load-carrying capacity while maintaining optimal material utilization.
Key Features
- High strength-to-weight ratio design
- Excellent torsional and flexural resistance
- Optimized section properties for spanning capability
- Compatible with standard connection systems
- Nesting capability for efficient shipping
- Pre-punched holes available for quick installation
Material Specifications
- ASTM A653 Grade 50 structural steel
- G90 galvanized coating standard
- Minimum yield strength: 50,000 PSI
- Tensile strength: 65,000 PSI
- Available in 14, 16, and custom gauges
Standard Z-Section Dimensions
|
Depth (in)
|
Flange (in)
|
Lip (in)
|
Gauge
|
Weight (lb/ft)
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
4
|
1.625
|
0.625
|
16
|
1.26
|
|
6
|
2.000
|
0.750
|
16
|
1.70
|
|
8
|
2.500
|
0.750
|
14
|
2.59
|
|
10
|
2.500
|
0.750
|
14
|
2.96
|
|
12
|
3.000
|
0.750
|
14
|
3.51
|
Load Capacity Performance
- Simple span capability: Up to 35 feet
- Continuous span: Up to 50 feet
- Load capacity: 30-150 PSF (varies by size/span)
- Deflection limit: L/240 under design loads
- Wind uplift resistance: Up to 90 PSF
Applications & Design
Roof Purlin Applications
Z-section purlins provide the structural framework for metal roofing systems, transferring loads from the roof deck to the primary structural frame. Their design optimizes material usage while delivering exceptional performance.
Roof System Benefits
- Excellent spanning capability for wide bay structures
- Superior resistance to wind uplift forces
- Accommodates thermal expansion and contraction
- Compatible with standing seam and corrugated roofing
- Integrated snow load and live load capacity
- Simplified connection details
Typical Roof Applications
- Industrial and manufacturing facilities
- Warehouse and distribution centers
- Agricultural buildings and livestock facilities
- Commercial retail and big-box stores
- Aircraft hangars and maintenance facilities
- Sports complexes and recreational buildings
Wall Girt Applications
When used as wall girts, Z-sections provide lateral support for wall cladding systems while resisting wind loads and transferring them to the structural frame. The Z-profile’s inherent strength makes it ideal for tall wall applications.
Wall System Advantages
- High lateral load resistance for wind and seismic forces
- Accommodates various cladding attachment methods
- Supports insulation systems and vapor barriers
- Allows for building expansion joint details
- Compatible with masonry, metal panel, and curtain wall systems
Design Considerations
- Continuous spans reduce material and labor costs
- Standard hole patterns available for quick connection
- Custom punching available for specific applications
- Bridging requirements vary by span and loading
- Thermal bridging considerations for energy efficiency
Installation & Connection Details
Proper installation techniques ensure optimal performance and longevity of Z-section purlin and girt systems. CFT provides comprehensive installation guidelines and connection details for various applications.
Installation Best Practices
- Maintain proper alignment and spacing during installation
- Use appropriate fasteners for connection to primary frame
- Install bridging as required by design specifications
- Ensure proper lapping at continuous spans
- Follow manufacturer's torque specifications
- Coordinate with cladding installation sequence
Connection Options
- Bolted connections to structural steel frame
- Welded connections for heavy-duty applications
- Clip angle connections for versatile attachment
- Continuous spanning with field splices
- Custom connection hardware available
Engineering Support Available
Our structural engineering team provides load tables, span charts, and custom design assistance for your Z-section applications.