Fixing methods explained

There are Several methods of fixing a steel wall system.

For non-load bearing partitions it is possible to install studs using the friction method to hold the studs in place in the track.
This simplifies the installation and reduces the time required.
Friction fitting keeps the studs in position until plasterboard is fastened to the studs.
Fix plasterboard to studs with plasterboard screws with screws being no more than 100 mm from tracks.

Fixing details

1. Fix top and bottom tracks of partition into position.
2. Fix first and last studs to both top and bottom tracks with screws.
3. Insert the intermediate studs into tracks at required centres and rotate steel section into position.
   
4. Check the studs are set in position and are plumb and square.

Fixing details

An alternative to using friction fit is to use mechanical fixing methods. Studs are held in place using friction fit until fasteners can be used.

1. Fix the top and bottom tracks into the correct position.
2. Insert the studs into the tracks at the required centres and rotate the stud into position.
3. Check that the studs are set plumb and square when in position.
4. Fix all studs to both the top and bottom tracks with screws.
5. The strength of these connections is based on pull out capacity of screws.
6. Refer to the screw manufacturer’s recommendations for pull out capacity of screws.

Fixing details

1. Fix the top and bottom tracks in the correct position.
2. Insert the studs into the tracks at the required centres and rotate the stud into position.
3. Check that the studs are set plumb and square when in position.
4. Fix all of the studs to both the top and bottom tracks with welding as per AS 1554, 1538 and 4600.
   
5. After welding, all disturbed areas are to be protected from corrosion with an appropriate zinc rich primer or other surface treatment as per surface coatings supplier’s recommendations.
   

Nogging Track and timber Noggins used with Peer Track

Refer to figure Fig - 40 below for various
Nogging track configurations and fixing details:

Nogging track is used to provide extra support to the stud wall.
This prevents the steel section from twisting when under load condition.
Nogging track should be fastened either with screws, rivets or welding etc to ensure firm bracing is achieved.
Refer to the maximum wall height tables SWS01 and SWS02 for the number of rows of noggings required for a particular wall height.
Nogging tracks are available in 450mm and 600mm spacing’s which can be used as a guide to ensure stud spacing’s are uniform and correct.
Other spacing’s are available on request.

1. Place the bottom track in its position as per detail Fig 37
2. Mark the position of the studs on the bottom tracks
3. Place track nogging with open ends of flanges facing down on bottom track
4. Insert the studs through the cut-outs of track noggings and into the bottom track at its position
5. Place the top track on top of the studs
6. Align the studs, bottom tracks, top tracks and track noggings to its required position
7. Slide the track noggings into the correct height on studs
8. Fasten the track noggings to both flanges of studs with either screws, rivets or welds
9. All other stud framing works as per the above Installation detail.

Plasterboard Installation – General instruction for fixing lining to stud frame (Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions)

1. Cut the sheets to size and then fix the sheets either vertically or horizontally.
2. Fasten the plasterboard to each stud as shown in the figure 43 or 44.
3. Use full sheets above and below all openings.
4. Saw cut sheets around any openings
5. Stagger the butt joints ensuring they do not occur on or between the same studs on opposite sides of the wall (This improves structural stability and the appearance of the decorated wall).

Keep the bottom edge of the sheet 10mm clear of the floor.

All plasterboard installation should be in accordance with AS2588 & AS2589 and the Plasterboard manufacturer’s specifications.

Other Building Board Installations

All building board installation should be in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications and recommended installation methods.

Expansion and Control Joints

Expansion joints as well as control joints need to be provided at 12 meter maximum spacing and wherever structural expansion joints occur.