www.metsec.

com
CI/SfB
April 2010
(28) Hh2
Lattice beam technical manual
Lightweight joists, trusses and
New composite floor beams
3
Product range 6-9
Roof beams 10-17
Floor beams 20-23
Ceiling and service supports 18-19
Metsec: Investing in quality and service 4-5
Features and benefits 6-7
Product range 8-9
Metal roof systems 10-11
Traditional roof systems 12
Green roof systems 13
Complete lightweight systems 14
Over-roof systems 15
Eaves cantilever systems 16-17
Traditional floor systems 20
Mezzanine floor systems 21
Composite floor Systems 22-23
Fixing details 24-27
Typical fixing details 24-27
Chord and bridging details 28-29
Chord details 28
Bridging details 29
Ceiling and service support systems 18
Walk on ceiling systems 19
Design examples and load tables 30-37
Design examples 30-33
Load tables - Parallel beams 34-36
Load tables - Composite floor beams 37
Services and design software 38-39
Contents
Services and general notes 38
Software 39
4
Investing in quality and service
The Company
Metsec plc is the UKs largest specialist cold
roll-forming company, providing structural steel
components for the UK construction and
manufacturing industries. We have been
established for over 75 years and are based in
Oldbury in the West Midlands.
Today, Metsec are part of the Profilform Division
of voestalpine - the worlds largest manufacturer
of cold roll-formed sections, with a global network
producing over 800,000 tonnes of cold rolled steel
per annum.
We focus on adding value through expert design,
precision manufacturing and on-time, in-full
product delivery. Our aim is to provide excellent
service and quality products that offer our
customers cost effective solutions.
Metsec Lattice Beam Division
Lightweight steel lattice beams were first
introduced by Metsec in the 1950s and their
inherent advantages very quickly established the
product as the first choice for structurally sound,
cost effective construction.
Since this introduction, the Metsec policy of
continual research and development has ensured
that quality and technical properties have
improved over the years and availability of type
has increased in parallel with development in
building technology and architectural styles.
The Metsec Lattice Beam Division offers a wide
range of joist and truss solutions pre-engineered
off site. We can achieve spans of up to 40m and all
of our designs give optimal levels of structural
performance in roof, floor or any other application
where light weight and long span performance is
important. All sections are designed in accordance
with BS 5950-5:1998.
Quality
Metsec operates strict design and quality
procedures through a Quality Management
System accredited to BS EN ISO 9001:2000
which covers both our design and manufacturing
operations.
This commitment to quality ensures that we
provide the highest levels of performance
throughout our operations, ensuring the highest
level of customer satisfaction.
Quality and service
5
Quality and service
Sustainability
Certification
Metsec and voestalpine both regard the issue of
sustainability as a core social, as well as corporate,
responsibility.
This has been recognised by the award of
BS EN ISO 14001:2004 for our Environmental
Management System.
Metsec were the first cold roll-forming company
to be awarded the prestigious gold standard under
the Steel Construction Sustainability Charter.
Additionally, Metsec recognise that environmental
responsibility is both a local as well as a global
issue. We were therefore pleased to be awarded
the Sandwell Borough Platinum Environmental
Charter Award following an audit of our
Environmental management procedures and
award of BS EN ISO 14001:2004.
Design
Our market-leading LatticeSPEC design software
provides cost effective solutions to maximise the
design efficiency of structures. Comprehensive
technical support is provided by our design office.
The latest version of LatticeSPEC offers the
unique advantage of producing complete
profiles/sections of joists and trusses in .dxf
format, saving the professional team valuable time
when specifying our products.
For full details on our technical support service
and how to obtain a free copy of LatticeSPEC
please refer to page 39.
Re-use and recycling
Steel is one of the Worlds most recycled
The baseline SPeAR

diagram shows a well

balanced performance in terms of
sustainability, and that Metsec is already
meeting legislation or best practice in the
large majority of areas. In some cases Metsec
is starting to move beyond best practice.
materials. According to the British Constructional
Steelwork Association (BCSA), recovery rates for
steel components from building demolition sites
are 84% for recycling and 10% for re-use*.
This gives a total potential recovery and
re-use factor of steel from buildings of an
incredible 94%.
* BCSA publication no. 35/03
SPeAR

Independently, as well as with voestalpine,

Metsec will continue to pursue sustainability as a
key business objective. The cornerstone of this is
the very thorough and detailed societal, economic
and environmental sustainability review of our
operations carried out in the SPeAR

(Sustainable
Project Appraisal Routine) Report from Arup. This
report gives us both an assessment of our current
environmental position as well as identifying key
areas for improvement in the future.
To quote from the report:
6
Product range
Features and benefits
Metsec lattice beams are designed and
manufactured to BS 5950-1: 2000 and 5: 1998 and
are formed from two cold rolled chord sections
with a central web joining the two together.
Typical profiles are shown on page 8-9. The chord
sections are all formed from high yield steel to BS
EN 10149-2: 1996 and have a minimum yield
strength of 355N/mm.
The web members are usually constructed from
solid bar on the smaller joists or hollow section for
the deeper joists and trusses. These are joined to
the chord sections by CO
2
shielded arc welding in
a pre-set jig to ensure dimensional accuracy.
This process allows for the design and
manufacture of a vast range of profiles, from
simple parallel joists through to complex double
curve, wave trusses, to suit almost any
application.
Services - excellent head height
The open web configuration of Metsec lattice
beams allows for the simple passage of services
through the web lacings. However, the web
lacings will not necessarily align unless this is
specifically requested.
Where special duct openings are required these
should be positioned near the centre of the beam
where shear is less critical.
Please consult the Metsec Lattice Beam Technical
Department for further information.
Long span - light weight
A typical Metsec lattice beam can weigh up to
50% less than its hot rolled counterpart and yet
still achieve spans of up to 40m without the need
for intermediate support columns - which can
allow designers greater flexibility when working
to optimise internal space.
Internal space can also be optimised by passing
services through the web of the lattice rather than
having to suspend them underneath causing a
significant loss of headroom.
7
Product range
Pre-engineered offsite - to ease site access
Where site access is a consideration, bolted joints
can be used. The joists are then assembled on site
using H.T. grade 8.8 bolts to join the sections.
Flush site joints to the top and/or bottom chords
are also available.
Factory joints may occasionally be incorporated
into joists. They will always consist of an
appropriate jointing arrangement with a full
profile fillet weld.
Finish as flexible as your design
All Metsec lattice beams are supplied shot blasted
and factory finished with a Zinc Phosphate primer
as standard. Other painted finishes, including any
standard RAL colour, are available upon request.
This feature is particularly important if it is
desired to leave the lattice members exposed as
part of a feature internal roof structure.
A hot-dipped galvanised finish is also available.
This is recommended for cold roofs and roofs with
limited access or exposed locations.
Timber - for rapid, secure fixings
Flush fitting standard Vac-Vac WR treated timber
can be supplied if required in the top and/or
bottom chords of all beams. The timber is rigidly
attached to the chords by shot-fired pins at
600mm staggered centres. This offers a simple
fixing medium for certain floor/roof finishes,
timber firrings and/or plasterboard ceilings.
Optimised wall/ceiling junctions
Due to the slim profile offered by Metsec lattice
beams excellent strength to weight ratio, beams
can be incorporated at the head of partitioning
and drylining systems without any requirement
for separate boxing in or encasement.
This allows continuous and parallel studwork to
full ceiling height, simplifying and accelerating
installation, maximising use of space and
optimising aesthetics.
8
Parallel beam
Roofs suitable for use with flat roofs or sloping roofs
where the lattice beams can be laid to falls. They can
also be used as long span purlins and are suitable for use
with most external finishes from lightweight metal
sheeting through to heavier constructions with tiles on
battens or decking.
Floors suitable for use as joists in all types of flooring
including timber, pre-cast concrete slabs or profiled
metal decking with in-situ poured concrete.
Product range
Pitched truss
Pitched trusses are suitable for all types of duo-pitch roof
construction and can be used with most external finishes
from lightweight metal sheeting through to heavier
constructions with tiles on battens or decking.
Tapered truss
Tapered trusses are suitable for all types of mono-pitch
roof construction. They can be used with most external
finishes from lightweight metal sheeting through to
heavier constructions with tiles on battens or decking.
Inverted truss
Inverted trusses are generally used on low pitched
roofing with timber or metal decking and built up
finishes. When used in conjunction with Metsec
Z-section purlins the design of deep valley gutters can
be simplified.
Parallel pitched beam
Parallel pitched beams are suitable for all types of duo-
pitch roof construction providing extra headroom over
that afforded by the pitched truss. They can be used
with most external finishes from lightweight metal
sheeting through to heavier constructions with tiles on
battens or decking.
Product range
9
In many of the applications listed above Metsec Z-section purlins
provide an excellent design solution to carry the external finish.
Similarly the wide range of Metsec mezzanine floor C-sections can
provide a range of system solutions for the designer.
Curved truss
Curved trusses can provide an aesthetically enhanced
roof profile. When used with a standing seam roof this
type of construction is easy to detail and install giving a
very low maintenance roof.
Curved beam
Curved beams provide an aesthetically enhanced roof
profile construction providing extra headroom over that
afforded by the curved truss. When used with a standing
seam roof this type of construction is easy to detail and
install giving a very low maintenance roof.
Double curved (wave) truss
Double curved trusses provide an ideal solution for the
designer working with modern multi-curved roof
structures. When used in conjunction with Metsec SFS
framing system the structure can be built to a constant
datum and can be used with all typical external finishes
Inverted curved truss
Inverted curved trusses offer designers a simple solution
when specifying a single curve roof structure. This can
be used to enhance the appearance of roof structures and
is frequently specified with standing seam roofing to
create a smooth appearance.
Product range
10
Metsec lattice beams can offer the ideal solution
for supporting a wide variety of roofing systems
due to their excellent strength to weight ratio.
A typical Metsec lattice beam can weigh up to
50% less than its hot rolled counterpart and yet
still achieve spans of up to 40m without the need
for intermediate support columns which can
allow designers greater flexibility when working
to optimise internal space.
Internal space can also be optimised by passing
services through the web of the lattice rather than
having to suspend them underneath causing a
significant loss of headroom.
Metal roof systems
Curved truss with structural deck
Metsec curved trusses can be used to support
structural decks with a suspended ceiling.
The natural open web of the truss allows for the
simple passage of services.
Roof beams
Leasowes Medical Centre, West Midlands
Similarly their aesthetic properties mean that they
can be supplied painted and left exposed as part
of a feature internal roof structure.
In addition to the direct reduction of the
environmental footprint of a construction project
by virtue of their lighter weight, lattice beams can
also help to reduce the environmental footprint of
the project by using off-site fabrication to speed
up the construction process of the roof as the
lighter sections can generally be transported and
handled more efficiently on site.
11
Parallel beam laid to fall
Metsec parallel beams can be used to support Z-section purlins
bolted to cleats pre-welded to the top chord of the beam. Liner tray,
insulation and metal deck provide the weather-proof layer and are
fixed to the Z-section purlins.
Pitched truss with flush-fitting Z-section purlins
Metsec pitched trusses are supported on a hot rolled steel structural
frame. Z-section purlins are fitted flush to the top chord of the
pitched trusses to support standing seam roof, or similar.
Flush fitting Z-section purlins are often used to minimise the overall
construction depth of the roof.
Roof beams
Vauxhall Sales Centre, West Midlands
Staplehurst Medical Centre, Kent
12
Roof beams
Parallel beam used as purlin
Metsec parallel beams can be
used as long span purlins
supported on load bearing
masonry walls. In this
application timber firrings are
fixed directly to flush fitting
timber inserts in the top chord
of the beam. Timber roof rafters
are then fixed to the timber
firrings to support counter
battens, underlay, tiling battens
and tile or slates.
Pitched truss used to support
timber purlins
Traditional timber purlins can
be supported on a Metsec
pitched truss. Ply or similar
sheathing is then used to
support weatherproofing layers
of battens, underlay and roof
tiles or slates.
Traditional roof systems
Firrings
by others
Timber insert
for nailability
13
Roof beams
Parallel beams used to support
steel decking with green roof
surfacing
Metsec parallel beams can be used
to support a structural deck,
membrane, substrate and Sedum
roof.
These beams can be up to 50%
lighter than hot rolled beams and
use far less steel with considerably
less environmental impact than
other systems.
Smithswood School, Solihull
Green roof systems
14
Roof beams
Complete lightweight systems
Patching Lodge, Brighton
Metsec double curve roof system
Metsec lightweight trusses and Z-section purlins can
also be combined with stand alone, light gauge, cold
rolled Steel Framing Systems (SFS) to provide
complete one-source building solutions.
Metsec lightweight trusses, combined with SFS
stand-alone walling systems, are becoming ever
more popular for constructing complete
structures.
The Metsec Lattice Beam and Framing Divisions
work together closely to provide total construction
solutions for the developer.
The complete wall and roof solution is frequently
installed through the Metsec Framing Divisions
approved installer network. This adds to the
complete, one-source nature of the package in
keeping with the demands of the modern
construction industry.
15
Roof beams
Over-roof systems
Where existing flat roofs are starting to fail or
require upgrading, one option to consider is the
creation of a new pitched, or curved, over-roof
which can be constructed quickly and cost
effectively using lattice trusses.
The lightweight lattice over-roofing system avoids
the need to strengthen the existing roof structure
and can give an existing building a much needed
facelift - typically at a fraction of new build costs.
The new trusses can be spaced at much wider
centres than other over-roof systems, which results
in fewer penetrations and fixings into the existing
structure.
The new lattice trusses are installed to span across
St. Lukes School, Portsmouth.
the building and provide a range of benefits for
the building owner, including improved water
run-off and enhanced building insulation. The
additional space created under the new structure
can also be used to house building services
making usable space available elsewhere in the
structure.
The Metsec lattice team have gained considerable
expertise in the design of trusses for use in over-
roofing projects both large and small.
Building services
Ring beams
16
Roof beams
Cantilever bolted to welded
stub-post
This detail can be used for
medium span cantilevers of
up to 2m.
The cantilever arm is bolted
to the end post which is
supplied welded into the end
of the lattice.
Since the cantilever roof
element does not require an
insulation layer the line of
the supporting cantilever
eaves structure is
correspondingly raised to
support the top sheet.
Eaves cantilever systems
Top chord cantilever
This detail can be used for small
span cantilevers of up
to 1m.
Stiffener angles can be welded
to the sides of the top chord, if
required, to provide an
economic cantilever solution.
Roof beams
Loose, bolt-on cantilever
This detail can be used for large
span cantilevers of
over 2m.
The cantilever arm extends
into the building to provide an
adequate backing span and is
bolted on to the top chord of
the lattice.
17
Park Central Apartments, Birmingham
18
Ceilings and service supports
Ceilings and service support systems
Service support/pipebridge
Metsec provide an economic system to form
pipebridge and service supports.
Lightweight lattice joists are provided in pairs and
braced together to form spans of up to 40m.
The majority of pipebridges are supplied with a
galvanised finish for external applications.
However, various paint specifications are also
available where required.
Metsec parallel lattice beams are the ideal
solution for the support of ceiling structures
within existing buildings. Whether the ceiling is a
simple suspension from a secondary grid of
C-sections or is walk-on and supported from the
bottom chord of the lattice beam, Metsec has a
range of solutions.
Lattice beams are ideal for clean rooms, data
halls, telecommunications facilities, retail units
and secure locations where long, unobstructed
spans are essential and where their light weight
can minimise the load on to the existing structure.
They can also allow the passage of services
Millennium Dome, London Millennium Dome, London
through the lattices web without any loss of head
room or need for exposed pipework which can form
a potential dust trap.
Metsec lattice primary members together with
Z or C-section secondary members provide a cost
effective solution to ceiling/service support
requirements.
Metsec parallel beam
Used with secondary C-sections
to support a suspended ceiling.
In the illustration shown, the
ability to run split-level ducting
through the lattice without any
loss of internal headroom is
clearly demonstrated. A further
benefit is that future changes to
the building services can easily
be accommodated by running
piping or ducting through the
lattice.
Metsec parallel beam
supporting walk-on ceiling
Metsec parallel ceiling support
beams can be used for walk-on
ceiling applications.
19
Ceilings and service supports
Walk-on ceiling systems
Clean room ceiling support structure
Ceiling and service support structure
Metsec lattice beams are frequently used to create
a support structure for walk-on ceilings in which
an interlocking system of steel faced planks is
used to create a load bearing ceiling construction.
These systems are particularly popular in the
creation of clean rooms where sealing the joints
of these planks creates a closed ceiling void in
which the high level mechanical and electrical
services can be installed without the need for
secondary floors or complex support systems.
These systems provide an excellent solution to the
location of services and are specifically designed
to allow maintenance engineers to walk on top of
the ceiling system. This facilitates the easy access
to services and components without the need for
the access equipment normally associated with
more basic ceiling installations.
The two photographs to the left show projects
where Metsec lattice beams are employed in walk
on ceiling constructions.
20
Floor beams
Traditional floor systems
Metsec lattice joists offer a simple solution for the
construction of both conventional and mezzanine
floors due to their excellent strength to weight ratio.
This means that a typical lattice joist can weigh up to 50%
less than their hot rolled counterparts.
Of great importance to the designer is the fact that the
internal space can be optimised by passing services through
the web of the lattice joists rather than having to suspend
them underneath causing a significant loss of headroom.
Similarly, the ability to insert flush fitting timber sections into
the top and bottom chords offers a simple medium for the
fastening of floor decking and/or plasterboard ceilings.
White Rose Shopping Centre, Leeds.
Traditional floors
Metsec parallel floor joists at
600mm centres with the floor
decking nailed to the top chord
and two layers of plasterboard
to the bottom chord.
In addition to the direct reduction of the environmental
footprint of a construction project by virtue of their
lighter weight, lattice beams can also help to reduce the
environmental footprint of the project by using off-site
fabrication to speed up the construction process of the
floor as the lighter sections can generally be transported
and handled more efficiently on site.
21
Floor beams
Mezzanine floors
Metsec parallel floor joists with
C-sections supporting floor decking.
The photograph below shows a
project where 17m span lattice joists
were designed to carry storage
loadings.
Zurich Insurance, Wiltshire
Mezzanine floor systems
22
Floor beams
Innovation
Long clear column free spans can be achieved with the
lightweight lattice design to offer clients present and future
layout flexibility.
Factory fitted shear connector plates eliminate the need to stud
weld on site and guarantees composite action.
Standard open web design allows for the easy passage of
services with larger bespoke openings available on request.
Single span metal deck with the option of crushed ends formed
during the roll forming process eliminates the need to fit end
caps on site and gives improved composite action.
Productivity
Bespoke precision engineered off-site manufacture of
intumescent painted beams available within 4-5 weeks from
order.
One hour fire rating
Metsec composite beams have been analysed using Vulcan
software from FEDRA and a full fire test has been carried out
at Warringtonfire in accordance with BS476-21:1987 to achieve
a one hour fire certification. The beams have off-site applied
intumescent fire protection as required.
Quality, performance and predictability
Purpose designed lattice beams with quality controlled factory
applied intumescent fire protection eliminating web buckling
issues. Pre welded shear connector plates offer a guaranteed
composite action which is further improved when using crushed
ends on single span decking.
Composite floor systems
cross-over services
M&E flexibility
Like all of Metsecs beams, joists and trusses,
the new composite beam is purpose-designed to
suit customer requirements.
Whilst the standard open web configuration
provides unprecedented flexibility for the
routing of M&E services, including the ability to
cross over services within the depth of the beam,
bespoke, over sized, rectangular openings can
be designed to offer even more flexibility,
maintaining minimum floor zones to maximise
floor to ceiling heights, or reduce the overall
height of the building.
* BCSA publication 35/03
23
Floor beams
bespoke-designed service routes
Programme savings
Lightweight and easy to handle with simple site connections
the composite beams can improve the speed of erection over
hot rolled alternatives.
Steel floor decking with factory crushed ends speeds up the
installation of single span decking and unlike stud welded
decking it is not affected by the weather.
Sustainability
Up to 10% lighter than cellular or castellated alternatives, the
Metsec lattice composite beam uses less steel in manufacture
and, taking weight out of the structure as a whole, will
significantly contribute towards reducing the buildings
overall carbon footprint. Steel is one of the worlds most
recycled materials with a potential recovery and
re-use factor of up to 94%*.
Cost reductions
By designing a lighter Metsec composite beam and
utilising the improved single spanning capability of modern
60mm and 80mm decking profiles with crushed ends, a
value engineered solution can be achieved. Additional
savings can be gained in other areas from potential
programme savings within the M&E package, and the
installed cost savings achieved through removing on site
stud welding. Main contractors also have the option to
package beams and decking together to improve
coordination and offer single contractual responsibility.
Enhanced Health and Safety
Lighter beams with pre-welded shear connector plates
guaranteeing the composite action, eliminates the need to
stud weld on site, removing all hot works. Lighter and easy to
handle, single span decking with crushed ends eliminate the
need to cut and fix end caps on site. Removal of stud welding
from site also avoids the need to site test stud weld
performance, saving time and allowing concrete pours to
progress safely shortly after the deck has been installed.
24
Fixing details
Typical fixing details
F1 Shoe fixing to concrete padstone
F4 Full depth seating with beam extended
F5 Beam fixing to internal wall F6 Beam laid to fall with full depth seat
F3 Full depth fixing to concrete padstone
F2 Beam laid to fall
on sloping shoes
25
Fixing details
F7 Fixing to concrete face with loose angle cleats F8 Shoe fixing to hot rolled steelwork
F9 Shoe fixing to hot rolled steelwork (pair) F10 Full depth fixing to the web of hot rolled
steelwork
F11 Full depth fixing to hot rolled steelwork F12 Fixing to internal hot rolled steelwork
26
F13 Beam to column flange fixing
Fixing details
Typical fixing details
F14 Beam to column fixing with plate welded
to column
F15 Beam to beam trimmer fixing F16 Typical bridging fixing detail
F17 Bracing fixing detail Note
F and T details illustrate a typical range of connections that are
available. Other connections can be fabricated to suit site conditions .
27
Fixing details
T1 Full depth fixing with bearing plate T2 Purlin to truss fixing
T3 Truss to column flange fixing T4 Standard shoe fixing to hot rolled steelwork
T5 Beam to truss trimmer fixing
T6 Standard shoe fixing to concrete padstone
28
Chord and bridging details
Chord details
35
50
2.5
35 50
120
y
x x
37.5 37.5 60
4
50
135
x x
y
40 75 40
155
5
75
x x
y
210
65 65
5
80
100 x x
y
Nominal dimensions
Chord y Area rxx ryy Ixx Iyy Zxx Zyy
type mm cm
2
cm cm cm
4
cm
4
cm
3
cm
3
MB 23.27 5.16 1.97 3.14 19.96 50.90 7.47 8.48
MD 24.25 8.53 1.93 3.66 31.84 114.12 12.36 16.91
MG 38.13 13.89 2.84 4.27 112.13 253.58 29.41 32.72
MJ 45.04 19.14 3.85 5.32 283.15 542.17 51.52 51.64
ML 45.51 23.84 3.85 5.94 353.90 840.11 64.94 73.05
MC 45.50 21.14 3.94 6.48 328.76 889.42 60.33 71.15
250
75 75
100
100
5
x x
y
230
70 70
6
100
90
x x
y
29
Bridging
Bridging is recommended
during the construction period
to enable the beams to support
the construction loads, and to
hold the beams at the centres
and positions indicated on the
plans.
However, when construction
loads are deemed to be light,
bridging can be omitted at the
discretion of the Metsec Lattice
Beam Technical Department.
Bridging consists of steel angles
connected to the top chord of
the lattice. Bridging may also be
required to the bottom chords
depending on design
considerations. The slenderness
ratio l/r of the bridging angle
must not exceed 250.
Chord and bridging details
Bridging details
Wind reversal
Where construction loads are
light the bottom chords should
be checked for compression due
to the wind reversal forces.
Please contact Metsec Lattice
Beam Technical Department for
further advice.
Maximum spacing of bridging for chord sections (m)
Type MB MD MG MJ ML MC
3.8 4.4 5.2 6.4 7.5 7.5
Sizes of bridging angle for various joists centres
Centres of joists (m) Standard bridging angle (mm)
0 2.4 50 x 50 x 3
2.4 3.0 60 x 60 x 5
3.0 3.9 80 x 80 x 6
3.9 4.9 100 x 100 x 8
Bridging
Knee bracing
30
Design examples and load tables
Design examples
Parallel beam - span/depth ratio
As a guide, depths of roof beam, conform approximately to
the following:
Approximate depth = span/20
i.e. 10m span/20 = 500mm deep
Design example
Joist span 10,000mm
Joist spacing 4,500mm
Roof loading:
Decking and insulation 0.20kN/m
2
Ceiling and services 0.30kN/m
2
Allow S.Wt steelwork 0.10kN/m
2
Dead load 0.60kN/m
2
x 1.4 = 0.84kN/m
2
Imposed load 0.60kN/m
2
x 1.6 = 0.96kN/m
2
Total load 1.20kN/m
2
1.80kN/m
2
Total load requirement = 1.80 x 4.5 = 8.10kN/m
Imposed load requirements = 0.6 x 4.5 = 2.70kN/m
Refer to load tables.
Use Metsec lattice beams ref: MD50
Total load capacity 8.83kN/m (>8.10)
Imposed load capacity 3.83kN/m (>2.70)
Important
The lighter the beam, the more cost effective the solution.
Designation
The designation of beam configurations and depths is
given by a simple letter and number code, as follows:
Chord Depth at Configuration Pitch
type shallow end or radius
MB ML (cm) T (tapered) Gradient (
o
)
TR (pitched) Radius (m)
PP (parallel pitched)
I (inverted)
CT (curved truss)
CB (curved beam)
Example 1
MD 50
Thus MD50 comprises MD type chord sections with an overall beam
depth of 500mm without pitch or taper.
Example 2
MJ 60 TRW 10
0
Thus MJ60TRW(10
0
) comprises MJ type chord sections with an
overall truss depth at the shallow end of 600mm rising to a central
ridge with a Warren type web pattern and a 10
0
slope.
Stone Road, West Midlands
31
Design examples and load tables
Summerhill Primary School, West Midlands
Typical truss options
N type truss
This is the most economical type of joist or truss when
considering gravity loading only and where stress
reversals are insignificant - i.e. longer diagonal members
are in tension.
Warren type truss
May be preferred in having a better appearance than the
N type joist or truss. Diagonals are alternatively struts
and ties.
This results in a frame less susceptible to deflection than
the N type.
Typical tapered truss options
Warren type truss with vertical posts
Additional members are introduced to the basic warren
type joist or truss to support loads which do not occur at
node positions.
32
Lattice beam, in steel frame
construction
Lattice beam
The Metsec lattice beam can
provide a very attractive,
lightweight, economical
solution when used as a main
support to the roof structure,
being able to meet short,
medium or long span
requirements.
The beam can be provided with
fully fixed end connections
determined by simple frame
analysis if required.
Alternatively, they can be
simply supported to carry
vertical applied dead and
imposed loads and fixed for
horizontal wind as a common
design assumption.
Purlins
The most economic section used
for supporting the roof cladding
is a cold rolled purlin.
Metsec cold rolled Z-section
purlins provide adequate lateral
restraint to the top
(compression) chord of the
lattice beams.
Bracing
The longitudinal tensile forces
in the Metsec Z-section purlins
resulting from lateral restraint to
the lattice beams are
transmitted to the diagonal
rafter bracing system provided
at each end of the building. In
addition to providing stability to
the lattice beams, bracing also
resists wind loading at the gable
ends (i.e. gable posts propped at
bracing node points) and acts as
stability bracing during
erection.
For longer buildings additional
bracing may be required to
intermediate bays.
Vertical bracing as shown on the
roof plan ensures that all forces
are transmitted to the
foundations.
Optional
bottom tie
Ridge
C
L
Knee brace
as required
Gable posts
Metsec lattice
beam
Metsec lattice
beam
Metsec lattice
beam
V
e
r
t
i
c
a
l

b
r
a
c
e
V
e
r
t
i
c
a
l

b
r
a
c
e
V
e
r
t
i
c
a
l

b
r
a
c
e
V
e
r
t
i
c
a
l

b
r
a
c
e
Cleader rail
M
e
t
s
e
c

e
a
v
e
s

b
e
a
m
R
a
f
t
e
r

b
r
a
c
i
n
g
Metsec Z purlins
Metsec lattice
beam
Metsec lattice
beam
Metsec lattice
beam
Design examples and load tables
33
Lattice truss in load bearing wall
construction
Lattice truss
The Metsec lattice truss provides a
lightweight, economic solution
when used as the roof lid main
support member on load bearing
wall construction. The lattice form
provides a more flexible service
zone within the ceiling void.
Large spans of up to 40m are easily
accommodated.
Purlins
Metsec cold rolled Z-section
purlins are used as economic
support to the roof cladding and
provide adequate lateral restraint
to the top (compression) chord of
the lattice truss.
Rafter bracing
The longitudinal forces in the
Metsec Z-section purlins resulting
from lateral restraint to the lattice
truss are transmitted to the
diagonal rafter bracing system.
Bottom tie bracing
The wind loading on vertical
spanning side walls is resisted by a
horizontal bracing system utilising
a steel or concrete ring beam at
bottom chord (eaves) level. This
ring beam may be returned on the
gable ends to provide intermediate
lateral support to the walls.
The longitudinal ties also serve as
lateral restraint members to the
bottom chord of lattice truss in
compression from wind uplift.
R
a
f
t
e
r

b
r
a
c
i
n
g
H
o
r
i
z
o
n
t
a
l

s
p
a
n
o
f

r
i
n
g

b
e
a
m
Metsec
truss
Metsec
truss
Metsec truss
Metsec truss
Eaves
bracing
L
o
n
g
i
t
u
d
i
n
a
l

t
i
e
L
o
n
g
i
t
u
d
i
n
a
l

t
i
e
Ring
beam
Load bearing walls
Suspended ceiling Services
Metsec
Z purlins
Design examples and load tables
Joist Overall Typical node Ixx Self weight
type depth (mm) centres (mm) (cm
4
) (kg/m)
Span (m)
Standard camber (mm)
Span (m)
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
35.94 29.95 25.67 22.46 19.97 17.97 16.34 14.97 13.82 12.83 11.98 10.59 8.83
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
3 4 6 7 9 12 14 16 19 22 26 29 33
MB22 220 250 816 10 6.58 3.81 2.40
2.86 1.65 1.04
MB27 270 350 1328 10 6.42 5.35 3.90 2.61
4.01 2.69 1.69 1.13
MB30 300 380 1697 11 11.32 7.86 4.99 3.34 2.35
5.94 3.44 2.16 1.45 1.02
MD30 300 380 2762 16 13.33 11.11 8.11 5.44 3.82 2.78
8.33 5.59 3.52 2.36 1.66 1.21
MB35 350 600 2416 12 13.56 9.42 6.92 4.75 3.34 2.43
8.45 4.89 3.08 2.06 1.45 1.06
MD35 350 600 3941 17 17.08 14.24 11.58 7.76 5.45 3.97 2.98
10.68 7.98 5.03 3.37 2.36 1.72 1.29
MG35 350 600 5429 28 37.01 25.33 15.95 10.68 7.50 5.47 4.11 3.17 2.49
18.99 10.99 6.92 4.64 3.26 2.37 1.78 1.37 1.08
MB40 400 600 3263 12 15.79 10.97 8.06 6.17 4.51 3.29 2.47
9.87 6.61 4.16 2.79 1.96 1.43 1.07
MD40 400 600 5334 17 17.17 14.31 12.27 10.50 7.37 5.37 4.04 3.11
10.73 8.95 6.80 4.56 3.20 2.33 1.75 1.35
MG40 400 600 7504 28 40.28 30.87 22.04 14.77 10.37 7.56 5.68 4.38 3.44 2.76
25.17 15.19 9.57 6.41 4.50 3.28 2.47 1.90 1.49 1.20
MB45 450 600 4240 13 18.03 12.52 9.20 7.04 5.56 4.27 3.21
11.27 7.82 5.41 3.62 2.54 1.85 1.39
MD45 450 600 6940 20 22.15 18.46 15.82 12.42 9.59 6.99 5.25 4.05 3.18 2.55
13.85 11.54 8.85 5.93 4.16 3.04 2.28 1.76 1.38 1.11
MG45 450 600 9926 29 42.82 35.63 26.18 19.53 13.72 10.00 7.51 5.79 4.55 3.64 2.96 2.44
26.76 20.10 12.66 8.48 5.95 4.34 3.26 2.51 1.98 1.58 1.29 1.06
MJ45 450 600 12965 37 42.18 35.15 30.13 25.52 17.92 13.06 9.81 7.56 5.95 4.76 3.87 3.19 2.66
26.36 21.97 16.53 11.07 7.78 5.67 4.26 3.28 2.58 2.07 1.68 1.38 1.15
MB50 500 600 5345 14 20.26 14.07 10.34 7.91 6.25 5.06 4.05 3.12 2.45
12.66 8.79 6.46 4.57 3.21 2.34 1.76 1.35 1.06
MD50 500 600 8759 19 21.45 17.88 15.32 13.41 11.04 8.83 6.63 5.11 4.02 3.22 2.62
13.41 11.17 9.58 7.48 5.25 3.83 2.88 2.22 1.74 1.40 1.13
MG50 500 600 12696 29 44.82 37.35 29.68 22.72 17.55 12.79 9.61 7.40 5.82 4.66 3.79 3.12 2.60
28.01 23.34 16.19 10.84 7.62 5.55 4.17 3.21 2.53 2.02 1.65 1.36 1.13
MJ50 500 600 16649 37 44.31 36.93 31.65 27.70 23.01 16.78 12.60 9.71 7.64 6.11 4.97 4.10 3.41
27.70 23.08 19.78 14.22 9.99 7.28 5.47 4.21 3.31 2.65 2.16 1.78 1.48
ML50 500 600 20650 46 55.94 46.62 39.96 34.96 28.54 20.81 15.63 12.04 9.47 7.58 6.17 5.08 4.24
34.96 29.14 24.97 17.64 12.39 9.03 6.79 5.23 4.11 3.29 2.68 2.20 1.84
MB55 550 600 6580 14 20.38 15.62 11.48 8.79 6.94 5.62 4.65 3.84 3.02 2.42
12.74 9.76 7.17 5.49 3.95 2.88 2.16 1.67 1.31 1.05
MD55 550 600 10791 19 20.42 17.02 14.59 12.76 11.35 9.93 8.17 6.29 4.95 3.96 3.22 2.65
12.76 10.64 9.12 7.98 6.47 4.72 3.55 2.73 2.15 1.72 1.40 1.15
MG55 550 600 15813 30 46.39 38.66 33.14 25.41 20.07 15.93 11.97 9.22 7.25 5.81 4.72 3.89 3.24
29.00 24.16 20.16 13.51 9.49 6.92 5.20 4.00 3.15 2.52 2.05 1.69 1.41
MJ55 550 600 20812 38 45.99 38.33 32.85 28.75 25.55 20.97 15.76 12.14 9.54 7.64 6.21 5.12 4.27
28.75 23.95 20.53 17.78 12.49 9.10 6.84 5.27 4.14 3.32 2.70 2.22 1.85
ML55 550 600 25824 47 58.07 48.39 41.48 36.29 32.26 26.02 19.55 15.06 11.84 9.48 7.71 6.35 5.30
36.29 30.25 25.92 22.06 15.49 11.29 8.49 6.54 5.14 4.12 3.35 2.76 2.30
MB60 600 600 7943 13 19.15 15.96 12.62 9.66 7.63 6.18 5.11 4.29 3.64 2.92
11.97 9.97 7.88 6.04 4.77 3.47 2.61 2.01 1.58 1.27
MD60 600 600 13037 18 19.20 16.00 13.71 12.00 10.67 9.60 8.73 7.58 5.98 4.79 3.89 3.21 2.67
12.00 10.00 8.57 7.50 6.67 5.70 4.28 3.30 2.60 2.08 1.69 1.39 1.16
MG60 600 600 19277 28 47.65 39.71 34.03 28.09 22.19 17.98 14.59 11.24 8.84 7.08 5.76 4.74 3.95
29.78 24.82 21.27 16.47 11.56 8.43 6.33 4.88 3.84 3.07 2.50 2.06 1.72
MJ60 600 900 25453 36 41.17 34.31 29.41 25.73 22.87 20.59 18.71 14.84 11.67 9.35 7.60 6.26 5.22
25.73 21.44 18.38 16.08 14.30 11.13 8.36 6.44 5.07 4.06 3.30 2.72 2.27
ML60 600 900 31594 45 51.98 43.31 37.13 32.48 28.88 25.99 23.63 18.42 14.49 11.60 9.43 7.77 6.48
32.48 27.07 23.20 20.30 18.05 13.82 10.38 8.00 6.29 5.04 4.09 3.37 2.81
MB65 650 600 9436 15 26.96 18.72 13.76 10.53 8.32 6.74 5.57 4.68 3.99 3.44 2.82
16.85 11.70 8.60 6.58 5.20 4.13 3.10 2.39 1.88 1.50 1.22
MD65 650 600 15496 20 36.08 30.07 24.31 18.61 14.71 11.91 9.84 8.27 7.05 5.69 4.63 3.81 3.18
22.55 18.79 15.19 11.63 9.19 6.78 5.09 3.92 3.08 2.47 2.01 1.65 1.38
MG65 650 600 23088 29 48.66 40.55 34.76 30.41 24.31 19.69 16.27 13.46 10.59 8.48 6.89 5.68 4.74
30.41 25.34 21.72 19.01 13.85 10.10 7.59 5.84 4.60 3.68 2.99 2.47 2.06
MJ65 650 900 30572 37 42.38 35.31 30.27 26.49 23.54 21.19 19.26 17.66 14.02 11.23 9.13 7.52 6.27
26.49 22.07 18.92 16.55 14.71 13.24 10.05 7.74 6.09 4.87 3.96 3.26 2.72
ML65 650 900 37960 46 53.64 44.70 38.31 33.52 29.80 26.82 24.38 22.13 17.41 13.94 11.33 9.34 7.79
33.52 27.94 23.94 20.95 18.62 16.60 12.47 9.61 7.56 6.05 4.92 4.05 3.38
MB70 700 900 11057 16 29.20 20.27 14.90 11.40 9.01 7.30 6.03 5.07 4.32 3.72 3.24 2.72
18.25 12.67 9.31 7.13 5.63 4.56 3.63 2.80 2.20 1.76 1.43 1.18
MD70 700 900 18168 21 33.18 27.65 23.70 20.16 15.93 12.90 10.66 8.96 7.63 6.58 5.42 4.47 3.73
20.73 17.28 14.81 12.60 9.96 7.95 5.97 4.60 3.62 2.90 2.35 1.94 1.62
MG70 700 900 27247 29 43.44 36.20 31.03 27.15 24.13 21.41 17.69 14.87 12.50 10.01 8.13 6.70 5.59
27.15 22.62 19.39 16.97 15.08 11.92 8.95 6.90 5.42 4.34 3.53 2.91 2.43
MJ70 700 900 36171 37 43.24 36.04 30.89 27.03 24.02 21.62 19.66 18.02 16.59 13.28 10.80 8.90 7.42
27.03 22.52 19.31 16.89 15.02 13.51 11.88 9.15 7.20 5.76 4.69 3.86 3.22
ML70 700 900 44922 46 54.89 45.74 39.20 34.30 30.49 27.44 24.95 22.87 20.60 16.50 13.41 11.05 9.21
34.30 28.59 24.50 21.44 19.06 17.15 14.76 11.37 8.94 7.16 5.82 4.80 4.00
MD80 800 900 24153 22 34.59 28.83 24.71 21.62 18.37 14.88 12.30 10.34 8.81 7.59 6.61 5.81 4.95
21.62 18.02 15.44 13.51 11.48 9.30 7.69 6.11 4.81 3.85 3.13 2.58 2.15
MG80 800 900 36606 30 44.35 36.96 31.68 27.72 24.64 22.17 20.16 17.25 14.70 12.67 10.93 9.01 7.51
27.72 23.10 19.80 17.32 15.40 13.86 12.03 9.26 7.29 5.83 4.74 3.91 3.26
MJ80 800 900 48803 38 44.27 36.89 31.62 27.67 24.59 22.13 20.12 18.44 17.03 15.81 14.57 12.01 10.01
27.67 23.06 19.76 17.29 15.37 13.83 12.58 11.53 9.71 7.78 6.32 5.21 4.34
ML80 800 900 60635 47 56.53 47.11 40.38 35.33 31.41 28.27 25.70 23.55 21.74 20.19 18.10 14.92 12.44
35.33 29.44 25.24 22.08 19.63 17.67 16.06 14.72 12.07 9.66 7.86 6.47 5.40
MD90 900 900 30990 22 35.65 29.71 25.46 22.28 19.80 16.86 13.94 11.71 9.98 8.60 7.49 6.59 5.83
22.28 18.57 15.91 13.93 12.38 10.54 8.71 7.32 6.17 4.94 4.02 3.31 2.76
MG90 900 900 47355 31 44.57 37.14 31.83 27.85 24.76 22.28 20.26 18.57 16.73 14.42 12.57 11.04 9.71
27.85 23.21 19.90 17.41 15.47 13.93 12.66 11.61 9.43 7.55 6.14 5.06 4.22
MJ90 900 900 63349 39 44.57 37.14 31.84 27.86 24.76 22.29 20.26 18.57 17.14 15.92 14.86 13.93 12.99
27.86 23.21 19.90 17.41 15.48 13.93 12.66 11.61 10.71 9.95 8.21 6.76 5.64
ML90 900 900 78732 48 57.32 47.77 40.94 35.83 31.85 28.66 26.06 23.88 22.05 20.47 19.11 17.91 16.15
35.83 29.86 25.59 22.39 19.90 17.91 16.28 14.93 13.78 12.55 10.20 8.41 7.01
MG100 1000 900 59492 32 44.29 36.91 31.63 27.68 24.60 22.14 20.13 18.45 17.03 15.82 14.09 12.38 10.97
27.68 23.07 19.77 17.30 15.38 13.84 12.58 11.53 10.65 9.48 7.71 6.35 5.30
MJ100 1000 900 79809 40 44.35 36.96 31.68 27.72 24.64 22.18 20.16 18.48 17.06 15.84 14.78 13.86 13.04
27.72 23.10 19.80 17.32 15.40 13.86 12.60 11.55 10.66 9.90 9.24 8.52 7.10
ML100 1000 900 99214 49 57.50 47.92 41.07 35.94 31.94 28.75 26.14 23.96 22.12 20.54 19.17 17.97 16.91
34
Load tables - Parallel beams
Design examples and load tables
Span (m)
18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34
7.44 6.33 5.42 4.69 4.07 3.57 3.14 2.78 2.47 2.20 1.98 1.78 1.61 1.46 1.32 1.21 1.10
18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34
37 41 45 50 55 60 65 71 77 83 89 96 100 109 116 124 131
Notes on load tables
1. All loads are in kilo Newtons per
metre (kN/m),calculated in accordance
with BS 5950-1 and 5:1998.
2. Figures in black type are ultimate total
loads per metre.
3. BS 5950: 1998 recommends that
imposed load deflections are limited to
span/360 where applicable. Therefore safe
working loads shown in red type are
calculated with a deflection limit of span/360.
4. By calculating Unfactored imposed loads and
ultimate total loads in kilo Newtons per linear
metre (kN/m) and referring to the appropriate
table a suitable selection can be made by
satisfying both imposed load and total
load criteria.
5. Tables are based on:
5.1 The top (compression) chord of the beam
is provided with adequate lateral restraints at
spacings not greater than 1.8m.
5.2 The load is uniformly distributed on the
full span.
6. Roof beams are fabricated with an upward
camber. The approximate camber for various
spans is shown in the tables.
Floor joists are supplied straight unless a
camber is specifically requested.
7. When design requirements are for depths
greater than 2.0m, or when curved, pitched or
tapered profiles are required, please refer to
LatticeSPEC design software or consult the
Metsec Lattice Beam Technical Department.
2.24
0.97
2.88
1.25
3.57 3.03 2.60
1.55 1.32 1.13
2.73
1.19
3.60 3.06 2.62
1.56 1.33 1.14
4.46 3.79 3.25 2.81
1.94 1.65 1.41 1.22
3.33 2.83
1.45 1.23
4.40 3.74 3.21 2.77
1.91 1.62 1.39 1.20
5.46 4.64 3.98 3.44 2.99
2.37 2.01 1.73 1.49 1.30
2.68
1.16
3.99 3.39 2.91
1.73 1.47 1.26
5.28 4.49 3.85 3.33 2.89 2.53
2.29 1.95 1.67 1.44 1.26 1.10
6.56 5.58 4.78 4.13 3.59 3.14
2.85 2.42 2.08 1.79 1.56 1.36
3.14 2.67
1.36 1.16
4.71 4.00 3.43 2.96 2.58
2.04 1.74 1.49 1.29 1.12
6.25 5.31 4.56 3.94 3.42 3.00
2.71 2.31 1.98 1.71 1.49 1.30
7.76 6.60 5.66 4.89 4.25 3.72
3.37 2.86 2.46 2.12 1.85 1.61
4.17 3.55 3.04 2.63
1.81 1.54 1.32 1.14
6.32 5.38 4.61 3.98 3.46 3.03
2.75 2.33 2.00 1.73 1.50 1.32
8.43 7.17 6.15 5.31 4.62 4.04
3.66 3.11 2.67 2.30 2.00 1.75
10.48 8.91 7.64 6.60 5.74 5.02
4.55 3.87 3.31 2.86 2.49 2.18
5.20 4.55 3.90 3.37 2.93 2.57
2.32 1.98 1.69 1.46 1.27 1.11
8.18 6.96 5.96 5.15 4.48 3.92
3.55 3.02 2.59 2.24 1.94 1.70
10.95 9.31 7.98 6.89 5.99 5.25
4.75 4.04 3.46 2.99 2.60 2.28
13.60 11.57 9.92 8.57 7.45 6.52
5.90 5.02 4.30 3.72 3.23 2.83
9.79 8.74 7.49 6.47 5.63 4.93
4.46 3.79 3.25 2.81 2.44 2.14
12.32 11.67 10.05 8.68 7.55 6.61
5.98 5.09 4.36 3.77 3.28 2.87
15.97 14.57 12.50 10.79 9.39 8.22
2.77
1.20
2.64
1.14
3.27 2.90
1.42 1.26
2.67
1.16
3.56 3.15 2.80
1.54 1.37 1.21
4.42 3.91 3.48 3.10 2.78
1.92 1.70 1.51 1.35 1.21
3.45 3.05 2.71
1.50 1.33 1.18
4.62 4.09 3.63 3.24 2.91 2.62
2.00 1.77 1.58 1.41 1.26 1.14
5.74 5.08 4.51 4.03 3.61 3.25 2.94 2.66
2.49 2.20 1.96 1.75 1.57 1.41 1.28 1.16
4.34 3.84 3.41 3.05 2.73
1.88 1.67 1.48 1.32 1.19
5.82 5.15 4.58 4.09 3.66 3.30 2.98
2.52 2.23 1.99 1.77 1.59 1.43 1.29
7.23 6.40 5.69 5.08 4.55 4.10 3.70 3.36 3.05 2.78 2.54
35
Design examples and load tables
Notes on load tables
1. All loads are in kilo Newtons per metre
(kN/m), and are calculated in accordance with
BS 5950-1: 2000 and 5: 1998.
2. Figures in black type are Ultimate total loads
per metre.
3. BS 5950-1: 2000 and 5: 1998 recommends that
Unfactored imposed load deflections are
limited to span/360 where applicable.
Therefore safe working loads shown in red
type are calculated with a deflection limit of
span/360.
4. By calculating Unfactored imposed loads and
Ultimate total loads in kilo Newtons per linear
metre (kN/m) and referring to the appropriate
table a suitable selection can be made by
satisfying both imposed load and total load
criteria.
5. Tables are based on:
5.1 The top (compression) chord of the beam is
provided with adequate lateral restraints at
spacings not greater than 1.8m.
5.2 The load is uniformly distributed on the
full span.
6. Roof beams are fabricated with an upward
camber. The approximate camber for various
spans is shown in the tables.
Floor joists are supplied straight unless a
camber is specifically requested.
7. When design requirements are for depths
greater than 2.0m, or when curved, pitched or
tapered profiles are required, please refer to
LatticeSPEC design software or consult the
Metsec Lattice Beam Technical Department.
36
Load tables - Parallel beams
Design examples and load tables
Joist Overall Typical node Ixx Self weight
type depth (mm) centres (mm) (cm
4
) (kg/m)
Span (m)
Standard camber (mm)
10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 32 34
10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 32 34
12 16 22 29 37 45 55 65 77 89 100 116 131
MG110 1100 900 73019 32 21.81 18.18 15.58 13.63 10.84 8.78 6.91 5.32
13.63 11.36 9.74 7.80 5.48 3.99 3.00 2.31
MJ110 1100 900 98184 40 21.87 18.22 15.62 13.67 12.15 10.93 9.29 7.16 5.63 4.51 3.66
13.67 11.39 9.76 8.54 7.36 5.37 4.03 3.11 2.44 1.96 1.59
ML110 1100 900 122080 50 28.61 23.85 20.44 17.88 15.90 14.31 11.55 8.90 7.00 5.60 4.56 3.75 3.13
17.88 14.90 12.77 11.18 9.15 6.67 5.01 3.86 3.04 2.43 1.98 1.63 1.36
MG120 1200 1200 87935 31 19.76 16.47 14.11 12.35 10.98 9.64 7.97 6.41 5.04
12.35 10.29 8.82 7.72 6.59 4.81 3.61 2.78 2.19
MJ120 1200 1200 118472 39 19.70 16.42 14.07 12.32 10.95 9.85 8.96 8.21 6.79 5.44 4.42
12.32 10.26 8.80 7.70 6.84 6.16 4.87 3.75 2.95 2.36 1.92
ML120 1200 1200 147330 48 26.38 21.98 18.84 16.49 14.66 13.19 11.99 10.74 8.45 6.76 5.50 4.53 3.78
16.49 13.74 11.78 10.30 9.16 8.05 6.05 4.66 3.67 2.94 2.39 1.97 1.64
MJ130 1300 1200 140675 40 19.42 16.18 13.87 12.14 10.79 9.71 8.83 8.09 7.47 6.46 5.25
12.14 10.11 8.67 7.58 6.74 6.07 5.52 4.45 3.50 2.80 2.28
ML130 1300 1200 174965 49 26.16 21.80 18.69 16.35 14.53 13.08 11.89 10.90 10.03 8.03 6.53 5.38 4.49
16.35 13.62 11.68 10.22 9.08 8.17 7.19 5.54 4.35 3.49 2.83 2.34 1.95
MJ140 1400 1200 164792 40 18.91 15.76 13.51 11.82 10.51 9.46 8.60 7.88 7.27 6.76 6.15 5.07
11.82 9.85 8.44 7.39 6.57 5.91 5.37 4.93 4.10 3.28 2.67 2.20
ML140 1400 1200 204984 50 25.80 21.50 18.43 16.13 14.33 12.90 11.73 10.75 9.92 9.21 7.65 6.30 5.26
16.13 13.44 11.52 10.08 8.96 8.06 7.33 6.48 5.10 4.08 3.32 2.74 2.28
MJ150 1500 1200 190823 41 18.32 15.27 13.09 11.45 10.18 9.16 8.33 7.63 7.05 6.54 6.11 5.73
11.45 9.54 8.18 7.16 6.36 5.73 5.21 4.77 4.40 3.80 3.09 2.55
ML150 1500 1200 237388 51 25.33 21.11 18.09 15.83 14.07 12.67 11.51 10.55 9.74 9.05 8.44 7.30 6.09
15.83 13.19 11.31 9.89 8.80 7.92 7.20 6.60 5.91 4.73 3.85 3.17 2.64
MJ160 1600 1200 218769 42 17.67 14.72 12.62 11.04 9.82 8.83 8.03 7.36 6.80 6.31 5.89 5.52 5.20
11.04 9.20 7.89 6.90 6.14 5.52 5.02 4.60 4.25 3.94 3.54 2.92 2.43
ML160 1600 1200 272176 51 24.77 20.64 17.69 15.48 13.76 12.38 11.26 10.32 9.53 8.85 8.26 7.74 6.98
15.48 12.90 11.06 9.67 8.60 7.74 7.04 6.45 5.95 5.42 4.41 3.63 3.03
MJ170 1700 1200 248628 42 16.97 14.14 12.12 10.61 9.43 8.48 7.71 7.07 6.53 6.06 5.66 5.30 4.99
10.61 8.84 7.58 6.63 5.89 5.30 4.82 4.42 4.08 3.79 3.54 3.31 2.77
ML170 1700 1200 309348 52 24.13 20.11 17.24 15.08 13.41 12.07 10.97 10.05 9.28 8.62 8.04 7.54 7.10
15.08 12.57 10.77 9.43 8.38 7.54 6.86 6.28 5.80 5.39 5.01 4.13 3.44
MJ180 1800 1200 280402 43 16.24 13.54 11.60 10.15 9.02 8.12 7.38 6.77 6.25 5.80 5.41 5.08 4.78
10.15 8.46 7.25 6.35 5.64 5.08 4.61 4.23 3.90 3.63 3.38 3.17 2.99
ML180 1800 1200 348905 53 23.43 19.53 16.74 14.65 13.02 11.72 10.65 9.76 9.01 8.37 7.81 7.32 6.89
14.65 12.21 10.46 9.15 8.14 7.32 6.66 6.10 5.63 5.23 4.88 4.58 3.88
MJ190 1900 1200 314089 44 15.51 12.92 11.08 9.69 8.62 7.75 7.05 6.46 5.96 5.54 5.17 4.85 4.56
9.69 8.08 6.92 6.06 5.38 4.85 4.41 4.04 3.73 3.46 3.23 3.03 2.85
ML190 1900 1200 390846 54 22.69 18.91 16.21 14.18 12.61 11.35 10.32 9.46 8.73 8.11 7.56 7.09 6.67
14.18 11.82 10.13 8.87 7.88 7.09 6.45 5.91 5.46 5.07 4.73 4.43 4.17
MJ200 2000 1200 349691 44 14.77 12.31 10.55 9.23 8.21 7.39 6.71 6.15 5.68 5.28 4.92 4.62 4.34
9.23 7.69 6.59 5.77 5.13 4.62 4.20 3.85 3.55 3.30 3.08 2.89 2.72
ML200 2000 1200 435172 55 21.92 18.27 15.66 13.70 12.18 10.96 9.96 9.13 8.43 7.83 7.31 6.85 6.45
13.70 11.42 9.79 8.56 7.61 6.85 6.23 5.71 5.27 4.89 4.57 4.28 4.03
Notes on load tables
1. All loads are in kilo Newtons per metre (kN/m),
and are calculated in accordance with BS 5950-1: 2000
and 5: 1998.
2. Figures in black type are Ultimate total loads
per metre.
3. BS 5950-1: 2000 and 5: 1998 recommends that
Unfactored imposed load deflections are limited to
span/360 where applicable. Therefore safe working
loads shown in red type are calculated with a deflection
limit of span/360.
4. By calculating Unfactored imposed loads and Ultimate
total loads in kilo Newtons per linear metre (kN/m) and
referring to the appropriate table a suitable selection
can be made by satisfying both imposed load and total
load criteria.
5. Tables are based on:
5.1 The top (compression) chord of the beam is
provided with adequate lateral restraints at spacings
not greater than 1.8m.
5.2 The load is uniformly distributed on the full span.
6. Roof beams are fabricated with an upward camber.
The approximate camber for various spans is shown in
the tables.
Floor joists are supplied straight unless a camber is
specifically requested.
7. When design requirements are for depths greater
than 2.0m, or when curved, pitched or tapered
profiles are required, please refer to LatticeSPEC
design software or consult the Metsec Lattice Beam
Technical Department.
37
Load tables - Composite floor beams
Design examples and load tables
Joist Overall Self weight
type depth (mm) (kg/m) 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
MC45 450 45.0 38.00 30.80
29.66 21.90
MC50 500 45.0 41.66 33.80
36.00 26.60
MC55 550 49.5 55.55 45.50 37.63 31.58
51.66 38.20 28.72 22.08
MC60 600 50.5 55.55 49.20 40.63 34.16 29.07
60.66 44.90 33.72 26.00 20.46
MC65 650 56.5 55.55 50.00 45.45 41.66 37.76 32.57
82.77 61.40 46.09 35.50 27.92 22.35
MC70 700 56.5 55.55 50.00 45.45 41.66 38.46 34.85 30.33
95.11 70.60 53.00 40.83 32.07 25.71 20.86
MC75 750 56.5 55.55 50.00 45.45 41.66 38.46 35.71 32.33
108.22 80.40 60.36 46.50 36.53 29.28 23.80
Notes on composite floor beam load tables
1. All loads are in kilo Newtons per metre (kN/m)
2. Loads shown in black type are Ultimate total loads/m
3. Loads shown in red type are Unfactored total loads/m calculated with a deflection limit of span/360
4. Pre-camber available
For spans in excess of 15m or design parameters not covered in these load tables, please contact Metsec Lattice Beam
Technical Department.
Designation
The designation of a composite beam is given by a simple letter
and number code, as follows:
MC 60 (56)
Thus MC60(56) comprises MC type chord section with an
overall beam depth of 600mm and a weight of 56kg per metre.
Parameters assumed for load tables
Beam spacing: 2.5m. Concrete: Grade 40. Modular ratio of 10.
Construction load: 0.5kN/m2 construction load is taken into
account, in accordance with BS5950: Part 3.
No allowance is made for heaping of concrete during casting.
Frequency: 4.0Hz (min). Fire limit: 60 minutes.

38 38
Services and design software
Services and general notes
Detailing service
Working from Architects and Consulting
Engineers drawings, Metsecs team of engineers
and specialist 3D draughtsmen will produce
structural layouts and sections to assist the site
team along with full fabrication drawings.
NBS Plus
Technical specifications for Metsec
lattice beams are also available via
NBS Plus (www.nbsplus.com). This
facility enables you to create concise,
technically accurate up to date specifications
which can be copied directly into your building
specifications thereby maintaining specification
quality and saving you time.
By using NBS Building you can be assured you
are using the industry standard specification
system that conforms to best practice. It provides
extensive guidance to help you select and edit the
right clauses for your project
Customer service
Metsec are committed to providing the highest
levels of customer satisfaction and ensure that our
staff are trained to the highest possible levels in
order to assist our customers at all stages of the
design and installation process.
Our sales teams in particular have a thorough
knowledge of our products and should be able to
resolve most of your questions quickly and
professionally.
Research and development
Metsec operate a policy of continuous research
and development reserving the rights to change
the specification for products in this literature
without prior notice.
Company Registration
Metsec plc.
Registered Office: Broadwell Road, Oldbury,
West Midlands B69 4HF.
Company Number: 1551970 (England)
CPD
The Metsec Lattice Beam Division offer a
continuous professional development presentation
which has been accredited by the Construction
CPD Certification Service in the use and
application of Metsec products and LatticeSPEC
design software. These can easily can be arranged
by contacting the Metsec Lattice Beam Division
on 0121 601 6000 or by visiting
www.metsec.com.
Tividale High School, West Midlands.
39 39
Services and design software
Software
Design software
Metsec are pioneers when it comes to the
provision of design software packages. Our first
package for lattice design was produced in 1989,
since when we have been continually updating
and improving the packages that we offer.
Today, Metsec produce a number of stand-alone
design software packages including LatticeSPEC
for our complete range of lattice beam solutions.
This package enables the quick and easy design
of all types of lattice beams. It also includes an
option to export the profile of the lattice with its
end section in .dxf format, enabling specifiers to
import direct to their working drawings and to
quickly and efficiently complete their detailing.
For a free copy of the latest LatticeSPEC software
please contact Metsec on 0121 601 6000 or visit
our website: www.metsec.com
Designed and produced by Communication Design Partnership 01959 562777
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Metsec plc
Broadwell Road, Oldbury, West Midlands, B69 4HF
Tel: 44+ (0) 121 601 6000
Fax: 44+ (0) 121 601 6109
email: lattice@metsec.com
www.metsec.com
Lattice Beam Division
Lightweight Lattice Joists and Trusses
Tel: +44(0) 121 601 6000
Fax: +44(0) 121 601 6109
lattice@metsec.com
Purlin Division
Z and C-Sections for Building Shell Applications
C-Sections for Mezzanine Floors
Tel: +44(0) 121 601 6000
Fax: +44(0) 121 601 6065
purlin@metsec.com
Framing Division
Fast-Track Steel Building Systems
Tel: +44(0) 121 601 6000
Fax: +44(0) 121 601 6021
metsecframing@metsec.com
Metstrut Division
Cable Ladder and Metal Framing Systems
for M&E Support
Tel: +44(0) 121 601 6085
Fax: +44(0) 121 601 6177
metstrut@metsec.com
Hepsec Division
Dry Linings, Partitioning and Ceiling Support
Systems
Tel: +44(0) 2476 585600
Fax: +44(0) 2476 585649
hep@metsec.com
Metsec plc is a member of the Profilform Division
of the voestalpine group with companies in
Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Czech Republic, France,
Germany, Russia and the U.S.A.
Copyright METSEC plc 2008
In the interests of a policy of continuous research and development,
Metsec Building Products Ltd reserve the right to change the
specifications in this publication without prior notice.