As an expert in the field of engineering, I have witnessed firsthand the limitations that traditional construction materials can pose for builders. However, there is a practical and code-approved solution that is gaining popularity in the industry - cold-formed steel (CFS) construction, also known as light gauge steel (LGS).At AES, we specialize in providing CFS services to contractors and architects. Our team helps design and produce steel frame elements for both load-bearing and non-load-bearing assemblies, including walls, floors, ceilings, trusses, gables, and decorative and architectural elements. While some may mistakenly believe that CFS is only suitable for interior frames or non-structural elements, the truth is that it has much more capacity than that. CFS has superior strength, stability, and weather resistance, making it a reliable material for load-bearing walls and other structural elements.
In fact, we have successfully designed CFS systems for wall studs, floor joists, beams, frames, floors, ceilings, and walls. One of the main advantages of CFS is its high strength-to-weight ratio, making it an ideal choice for use in lateral load resistance systems. It's no surprise that CFS is being increasingly implemented in large-scale projects around the world. From hotel complexes to multi-story family buildings to schools and health centers, CFS has proven to be a versatile and reliable option for load-bearing construction. Not only does CFS offer structural performance and strength, but it also helps protect other supported components such as plaster and concrete from damage. Our specialized software allows for a wide range of configurations and designs to meet the specific needs of each project.
With the help of technical software like FRAMECAD Structure, CFS can be designed to withstand various loads and forces, making it a superior structural material. As CFS continues to gain acceptance and adoption worldwide, it is quickly becoming the preferred method of load-bearing structural construction. In fact, many project specifications now include a definition of the CFS system in contract plans to level the playing field for bidders and reduce overall construction costs. In large projects, the stability and lateral load resistance qualities of CFS are essential for building integrity. With FRAMECAD Structure, all project specifications, including loads, deflection, and other forces, are entered and calculated as part of the engineering process for each CFS component. Additionally, CFS is resistant to fire and corrosion, making it a safe and reliable option for supporting loads in homes, multifamily buildings, and commercial structures.