Tech Note G200-21: Chase the Loads: Load Path Considerations for Cold-Formed Steel Light-Frame Construction
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This Technical Note updates and replaces CFSEI Technical Note G200-15
Summary: Engineering students are admonished to “chase the loads” in their structural analysis and design courses. A “load path” is the direction in which each consecutive load will pass through framing members and the connected members of a framing assembly. The load path sequence begins at the point of load application, both vertical (gravity, wind uplift or seismic vertical) and lateral, on the structure and works all the way down to the footing or foundation system, ultimately transferring the load of the structure to the foundation. This Tech Note provides insight into the load path considerations for cold-formed steel framing.
Disclaimer: Designs cited herein are not intended to preclude the use of other materials, assemblies, structures or designs when these other designs demonstrate equivalent performance for the intended use. CFSEI documents are not intended to exclude the use and implementation of any other design or construction technique.
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