enduroframe

ENDUROHUB Portal Update June 2024

ENDUROHUB® Portal Update June 2024

ENDUROHUB®️ is a powerful online application to provide the data to efficiently run a factory to manufacture light gauge steel frames. ENDUROHUB®️ converts files generated in the ENDUROCADD®️ software into files that can be made by ENDURO® rollformers following predefined rules to meet individual fabricator preferences to optimise productivity. Additionally, ENDUROHUB®️ includes features such as sorting fabrication sheets according to assembly sequence, organizing wall panels for efficient stacking on trucks, tracking production and assembly progress, and generating comprehensive reports.

There were many highly requested features added in the June 2024 ENDUROHUB® update:

  • Assembly Height added to Assemblies and BOM tabs
  • Fabrication Record Improvements
  • Customised Assembly Rates
  • Rollformer shown in Order Screen
  • Strap bracing cutting lists now available for ENDUROBRACE machines
  • Short noggings can now be manufactured
  • and more!

Assembly Height added to Assemblies and BOM tabs

A new column has been added to the “Assemblies” tab and “BOM” tab which displays the height information of Wall, Truss and Joist assemblies. The height column can be enabled from the “Column chooser”.

It’s now possible to automatically sort assemblies by “Height”. ENDUROHUB® portal managers can turn this on by adding “Height” to the sort options in the “Fabrication Sort Profile” settings.

In addition to sorting by assembly height, it is also possible to put assemblies into a batch based on their height.

Reports can now be generated with Height and Width information of assemblies to work out the Panel and Truss stacking without needing to use “Panel Stacker” software.

An example of possible sort settings includes:

  1. Sorting trusses by truss span, and then by height to get a “pyramid” of trusses;
  2. Sorting wall frames by panel height, and then by panel width so all panels that are the same height can be made together with the longest panels at the bottom of a stack.
ⓘ The Height information visibility in ENDUROHUB® along with the width information would largely work as an alternative to Panel Stacker if explored to its full potential.

Hide Orders in the Order Screen

This version allows users to select which orders can be hidden in the order screen. This means that orders that have been completed are not shown in the order screen so that you can focus on the orders that still need to be made.

The added bonus of this is that that orders that are not hidden will load faster.

ⓘ Orders that are hidden are not deleted. To see any hidden jobs select the Show hidden jobs tickbox at the bottom of the Orders screen.

Fabrication Record Improvements

While assigning assembly times to Fabrication records, the pre-defined breaks would be automatically included based on the start and end times selected against the fabrication record.

The Start and End times of Breaks are required to be defined in Assembly settings.

ⓘ The BOM tab is used to split an order’s parts into batches and sort parts into the sequence they will be rollformed.

Customised Assembly Rates

In the Assembly Settings, you can now customize rates for permanent, part-time, and casual staff to gain a more precise insight into assembly costs. If these fields are left empty, the system will default to using the average assembly cost per hour.

Rollformer shown in Order Screen

Users can see which rollformer batches have been assigned to in the Order screen. This makes it easier to see which rollformer an order will be made on in multi-rollformer sites.

Strap bracing cutting lists now available for ENDUROBRACE machines

It is now possible to create cutting lists for ENDUROBRACE machines. This means strap braces can be manufactured in the same sequence as wall panels with wall panel IDs printed on the straps. You can select which types of strap braces cutting lists are created for. Strap braces can be batched and sorted.

This makes creating strap braces much faster!

Short noggings can now be manufactured

Until now, short noggings were not designed in ENDUROCADD® because they couldn’t be manufactured in the ENDURO® rollformer due to the length of the web notch.

This is now changed and ENDUROHUB® will add transition parts on each end of a short nogging head or sill which enable the part to go through the rollformer without getting jammed. These need to be cut off when the nogging is installed.

The default is to make short noggings with extensions at each end, however this can be changed in the Settings Profile.

The details of this feature can be seen at EE-85 – Short Noggings on Panel Ends beside Openings – ENDUROCADD Help (login required)

Other features added to ENDUROHUB® in June 2024

  • Columns can now be resized in the Orders Screen;
  • Fabrication charts in the Dashboard can be filtered by shift
  • There is a Loose Usage Order sequence in the Sort Profile;
  • Pack numbers can be manually added to assemblies in the Assemblies Tab and a Pack number column can now be selected in the cutting list tab
  • Headings are now added in the Release Order function to identify which batches have – and have not – been released

At Enduroframe, we are focusing on expanding the capabilities of ENDUROHUB® beyond cutting lists and provide metrics to aid scheduling and allow reporting on manufacturing processes.

Contact us today to learn how ENDUROHUB® can be tailored for your business needs.

Interested in learning more about ENDUROHUB®? Check out these related articles:

For students of our ENDUROCADEMY online training portal, there is an ENDUROHUB® Basics course available here

Challenges and Solutions in Constructing Hip Roofs with Light Gauge Steel

Challenges and Solutions in Constructing Hip Roofs with Light Gauge Steel

Constructing hip roofs is one of the most challenging aspects with light gauge steel construction, and is an area that timber frame installers often struggle with when transitioning to light gauge steel framing.

The primary challenges often involve correctly positioning trusses and rafters to ensure the proper formation of the hip end, ensuring straight alignment of all members along the eaves line, establishing a well-defined hip line that aligns with hip flashings, allowing ample space on the hip line for securing roof battens, and addressing difficulties in connecting members at 45-degree angles.

The ENDUROFRAME®️ building system offers a range of unique features within light gauge steel framing to effectively address the challenges associated with hip roofs. Moreover, it provides a plethora of options to accommodate diverse requirements and building practices across Australia. 

When combined, these elements offer a straightforward solution for constructing hip roofs:

1. Locating holes for Truss to rafter connection

To simplify the positioning process, locating holes are punched in both the rafter and truncated truss top chords, ensuring their precise alignment as depicted in the cross-section below.

Locating hole punched in truncated truss top chord and rafter
Locating hole punched in truncated truss top chord and rafter

2. Truss connection details printed on wall top plate

Both trusses and rafters are accurately positioned along top plates, as their locations and associated tiedown brackets are clearly marked on top plates.

Truss location printed on wall top plates
Truss location printed on wall top plates

3. Locating holes for tiedown bracket to truss/rafter connection

Locating holes in tie-down brackets and truss bottom chords guarantee consistent overhangs for all rafters and trusses.

Pre-punched holes in tiedown bracket and rafters ensure consistent eaves overhangs
Pre-punched holes in tiedown bracket and rafters ensure consistent eaves overhangs

4. Folded tabs for truss/rafter to hip rafter connection

Lastly, members can be effortlessly connected using engineered folded tabs with specified capacities.

Tabs can be folded and connected to members running at 45 degrees
Tabs can be folded and connected to members running at 45 degrees

Why do we have many different ENDUROFRAME® hip options?

To ensure that steel frame technology can accommodate buildings of varying complexity and architectural style, it is crucial to have flexible options for constructing hip roofs. Builders often have their own preferences based on past experience building hip roofs and material-saving considerations.

To address this complexity, ENDUROFRAME® now offers 4 types of hip ends and 3 types of hip rafters which make up the hip roof.

It is easy to select these in the ENDUROCADD®️ software which automates the modelling and design of the trusses, rafters and brackets that make up the roof hip.

What are hip ends and hip rafters?

Hip ends refer to the options available for building common rafters or trusses that run perpendicular to the eaves and main roof trusses. These hip ends become shorter in length as they approach the corner of the roof.

Hip rafters, on the other hand, are diagonal members that extend from the corner of the roof up to the ridge line of the building. There are two main varieties of hip rafters: those centered on the hip line of the roof and those with the top flange parallel to the roof hip face.

Examples of Hip Ends and Hip Rafters
Examples of Hip Ends and Hip Rafters

Which hip end and hip rafter should you use?

The choice of hip options depends on job specifications, engineering requirements, and installer/builder preferences. Engineering requirements may include:

  • Roof pitch: Shallow roof pitches may require a larger setback for the first truncated truss, making it taller and stronger, which in turn affects the span of the hip rafters.

  • Heel depth: High heel depths over the external wall can impact the design of the hip rafters, potentially requiring an upstand and bottom chord trimmer.

  • Eave overhang distance: Larger eave overhangs may necessitate higher base material thicknesses or boxed hip rafters for increased strength.

  • Wind Speed: Higher wind speeds may require additional tie-downs for the hip rafters, and sometimes even thicker gauges of steel to be used, or more boxing of members.

Builder preferences often depend on their experience with previous truss systems, aiming to minimize the learning curve. For example, some builders prefer hip rafters centered on the hip line as they provide a clear indication of where the hip capping should be installed. Others opt for hip rafters in line with the hip roof face to provide a good fixing surface for roof battens.

Hip End Types

The ENDUROFRAME®️ system has 3 types of hip ends: Type 1, Type 1A, Type 2, and Type 3. This explains each of them.

Type 1 Hip End

This is the most affordable option as it uses the least amount of steel. The common rafter can be single or boxed for additional strength. It also features smart rafter holes that align with prepunched holes in the truncated truss top chords, ensuring perfect alignment of the common rafters on both trusses and the wall panel. However, this type is not recommended if there is a raised heel in the roof trusses, as it lacks a bottom chord trimmer to accommodate the heel step up over the external wall.

A 3D model for closer inspection can be found here:

Type 1A Hip End

Similar to Type 1, this hip option includes a vertical chord joining to the first truncated truss and a horizontal bottom chord running perpendicular to the first truncated truss out to the external wall.

The first truncated truss is automatically made flush to prevent clashes between the rafters and the webs of the truss. This design facilitates easy packing, storage, and transport.

Type 1A hip enables fast and accurate erection as the vertical chord on the rafter locates and braces the position of the first truncated truss. It also allows for pushing the pitching perimeter outwards to change the heel depth over the external wall and create a sail over or cantilevered eave.

A 3D model for closer inspection can be found here:

Type 2 Hip End

These rafters are exceptionally strong and ideal for large spans. The first truncated truss can be installed at a greater distance back from the pitching perimeter, providing increased strength. They are particularly suitable for raised ceilings and commercial buildings with box gutters. Type 2 hip is also the strongest option for cantilevered eaves.

The rafters are designed as trusses in the web editor and connect to the first station girder truss, which is set back by the user-defined distance.

A 3D model for closer inspection can be found here:

Type 3 Hip End

The Type 3 Hip End is the most similar method to that used by timber roof trusses in hip ends, and is ideal for builders transitioning from putting up timber trusses. It has trusses running 45 degrees from the corner of the roof resting on girder trusses with top chords extending to the apex of the roof.

This option is suitable for very low roof pitches and also where the eaves are cantilevered past the outside of the building, and can even allow boxed gutters to be included in the hip end.

This system includes a unique, innovative system of engineered tabs which can be easily folded to fixed to adjoining members making assembly quick.

A key feature of this truss system is that all members are engineered.

A 3D model for closer inspection can be found here:

What are the different Hip Rafter Types?

1. Centered Boxed Hip

This is the most common hip rafter used by Enduroframe licensees. Boxed Hip rafters are boxed sections that run along the entire hip line of the roof from the eave line to the apex point of the hip. A 50mm gap between a pair of hip rafters may be made to allow for a crown rafter to fit in between.

2. Veed Hip

Veed hip rafters are short v-shaped hip rafters made using standard sections (U, C, and Topspan 22) that run along the hip line over at least one truncated truss. They have four creeper rafters attached and are designed as left and right sections to facilitate nesting against the horn of the truncated truss. Can either be pre-made and kept in stock or made with the job when selected in ENDUROHUB®️.

3. Boxed Hip

The option has a boxed member which is offset from the hip line and is parallel with the hip face, with a secondary member on the roof face extending from the eave to the 1st station truncated truss.

4. Trussed Hip

Hip truss rafters are flush trusses constructed from the same sections as common rafters that run along the hip line from the eave to the first truncated truss. 

Enduroframe at Sydney Build 1-2 May 2024

Join us at Sydney Build 2024

1st – 2nd May 2024, ICC Sydney

We would love to invite you to visit Enduroframe’s Sydney Build display at booth M59 at the Sydney International Convention & Exhibition Centre. Come along and learn more about the ENDUROFRAME® Building System, the ENDUROCADD® design software and ENDURO® rollforming solutions!

If you would like to secure time to speak with a framing expert about the ENDUROFRAME® Building System and how to get started manufacturing efficient Light Gauge Steel frames, click through to book a meeting

Sydney Build is Australia’s largest construction and design show which will be held at the Sydney International Convention & Exhibition Centre on May 1st & 2nd. Register your no-cost tickets today at www.sydneybuildexpo.com/registration

We look forward to seeing you there!

ENDUROHUB Portal Update January 2024

ENDUROHUB Portal Update January 2024

ENDUROHUB®️ is a powerful online application to provide the data to efficiently run a factory to manufacture light gauge steel frames. ENDUROHUB®️ converts files generated in the ENDUROCADD®️ software into files that can be made by ENDURO® rollformers following predefined rules to meet individual fabricator preferences to optimise productivity. Additionally, ENDUROHUB®️ includes features such as sorting fabrication sheets according to assembly sequence, organizing wall panels for efficient stacking on trucks, tracking production and assembly progress, and generating comprehensive reports.

This article describes three new features introduced to ENDUROHUB® in January 2024.

Improve safety by trimming the ends of the top and bottom plates to avoid any cuts caused by overhanging ends.

Generate Cuttings lists and Files for Production for assembly time logging and aiding organization of parts before assembly.

Copy and Customise System Reports instead of starting a report design from scratch.

Trim ends of top and bottom plates

In this iteration of the ENDUROHUB® application, we have incorporated a feature that allows for trimming the top and bottom plates by up to 3mm at each end. This functionality is intended as a safety measure to mitigate the risk of cuts in cases where plates protrude beyond studs.

To configure the trim distance for individual rollformers, navigate to Settings > Enduro Settings > Rollformers. Please exercise caution when utilizing this option.

Generate Part lists and Cutting lists

Did you know that the ENDUROHUB® portal can generate records for logging assembly time?
This feature was added as part of the Assembly Tracker system.

In this version of the ENDUROHUB® portal we’ve added the ability to include additional lists in the fabrication record.

Having these lists attached to the fabrication record ensures staff can organise parts before assembly activities start. This is potentially a big time-saver enabling assembly staff to focus on assembly and not searching for – or cutting – ancillary parts.

Copy and Customise System Reports

Previously, it was not possible to customise a System Report template. Now, you can open a System Report in the Report Designer then click Save As to copy the System Report and customise it for your own use. This is really handy so you can add your own logo, or even change the data that is shown in the report.

At Enduroframe, we are focusing on expanding the capabilities of ENDUROHUB® beyond cutting lists and provide metrics to aid scheduling and allow reporting on manufacturing processes.

Contact us today to learn how ENDUROHUB® can be tailored for your business needs.

Interested in learning more about ENDUROHUB®? Check out these related articles:

For students of our ENDUROCADEMY online training portal, there is an ENDUROHUB® Basics course available here

Unlocking Business Success: The Hidden Value of Online Training for Your Team

Unlocking Business Success: The Hidden Value of Online Training for Your Team

In the ever-evolving landscape of building and construction, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for success. As a Light Gauge Steel business owner or manager, you understand the importance of efficiency, quality, and consistency in your operations. One powerful tool that can contribute significantly to achieving these goals is online training for your staff. In this blog post, we’ll explore the often-overlooked benefits of investing time in training your team using Enduroframe’s online LGS training portal, ENDUROCADEMY.

1. Save Time

New features in ENDUROCADD® software, ENDUROHUB® portal, or ENDURO® rollformer HMI are created with the express intent of reducing work time. Whether it is eliminating a lengthy on-site workaround, automating a repetitive detailing process, or incorporating a business management process that was previously performed in a different system. 

It’s one thing to read about new features but if you’re not given a chance to integrate them into existing processes, you’re more likely to stick with what you know. Give your team a chance to make their jobs easier (and complete work faster) by encouraging them to complete online training and embrace time-saving new features.

2. Onboard new employees quickly

Ensure your new employees hit the ground running by giving them access to ENDUROCADEMY LGS Training as early as possible. We have courses designed for beginners that cover the fundamentals of the Light Gauge Steel industry, ENDUROCADD® software basics and ENDUROHUB® portal basics. Online LGS training courses can be accessed anywhere, at whatever time is convenient and don’t require the assistance of other team members to complete. 

We won’t share names but we’ve even had prospective employees request access so they can learn the basics and nail their job interview.

3. Cost effective and accessible

Previously, the Enduroframe team delivered training in person. This required a significant investment for businesses sending students to attend training in Melbourne, or hosting training in their own facilities.

Now, with the basics covered by online training, expensive in-person training can be reserved for more specialised scenarios that are tailored to your business needs.

3. Customisable 

Do you have a process that needs training? We can prepare courses, training videos and documentation based on your requirements. Course access can be limited to your employees only. Or if the training is for a product or service your business is selling, shared with all ENDUROCADEMY students.

Another great feature in ENDUROCADEMY is the ability to set up teams where the team manager can assign training to team members and view progress.

Conclusion: Empower your Team, Propel Your Business

In conclusion, the benefits of online training in ENDUROCADEMY extend far beyond the surface level. It’s not just about learning for the sake of learning; it’s about empowering your team with the tools and knowledge needed to drive your business forward. From mastering time-saving software features to ensuring a consistent and high-quality output, the impact of investing in training is undeniable.

As a forward-thinking business owner or manager, consider online training not just as a checkbox for compliance but as a strategic investment in the growth and success of your organization. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, you’re not just shaping employees; you’re sculpting the future of your business.

Get Started Today!

The best part about ENDUROCADEMY? It’s free for Enduroframe licensees! Check out the full list of courses available at endurocademy.enduroframe.com/courses-page.

If you or your staff would like to enrol in ENDUROCADEMY, contact us at [email protected]

Sustainability of House Frames Made From TRUECORE® steel

Sustainability of House Frames Made From TRUECORE® Steel

With sustainability being an important consideration when constructing a home its good to take a holistic view of the materials that go into the build. TRUECORE® steel makes an excellent choice. Whilst it can be carbon intensive in its manufacture, the manufacturing process is only part of the emissions profile of a material. TRUECORE® steel is strong, durable and versatile and a good choice for buildings designed for long life and that require flexibility to accommodate future reuse options without significant reinvestment.

The inherent properties of steel allow it to be reused, remanufactured or recycled into equivalent, or higher quality products, over and over again. As it is highly recyclable, steel is also less likely to end up in landfill.

Durable and resilient

TRUECORE® steel incorporates BlueScope’s industry-leading metallic coating incorporates Activate® technology, to provide enhanced corrosion resistance. Its long life can help conserve resources and energy that may otherwise be invested in products with a shorter life span.

Incorporates recycled materials

Across the range of steel products manufactured by BlueScope in Australia, including TRUECORE® steel products, the average recycled content in the steel is 17.4%1, which includes pre- and post-consumer recycled materials. Materials reclaimed within the steelmaking operations represent an additional 6.8% average recovered content.

Recyclable

The steel in TRUECORE® steel is 100% recyclable without loss of quality.

Design for disassembly and reuse

Frames made from TRUECORE® steel are lightweight, durable and can be screw assembled – highly suitable for modular design, and can be designed for disassembly and reuse.

Reduced onsite waste

As frames made from TRUECORE® steel are fabricated off-site to exact specifications, minimal offcuts are generated during fabrication and minimal cutting is required onsite. This means that minimal waste is produced onsite, which results in greater material efficiency and potential waste removal cost savings.

Consistent quality

BlueScope’s Australian manufacturing facilities are accredited to the globally recognised standard ISO 14001 (Environmental Management Systems), demonstrating BlueScope’s commitment to continual improvement.

Produced by a responsible manufacturer, BlueScope

BlueScope is a founding member of ResponsibleSteel™, the industry’s first global multi-stakeholder standard and certification initiative supporting the responsible sourcing and production of steel. BlueScope achieved ResponsibleSteel™ site certification of Port Kembla Steelworks in February 2022.

 

For further information around the sustainability and the environmental impacts of using steel in your project please reach out to us.

 

1. Across the range of steel products manufactured by BlueScope in Australia, the average recycled content (according to recycled content categories defined in ISO 14021:2016) in the steel is 17.4%, which includes pre- and post-consumer recycled materials. Scrap and iron-bearing materials generated and reclaimed from BlueScope’s steelmaking, coating and painting operations represent an additional 6.8% recovered content, which is not reported as recycled content. Scrap from rollforming and fabrication processes are included as pre-consumer recycled content. The figures provided represent our best estimate at the time of publication. For current recycled content figures please contact BlueScope Steel Direct on 1800 800 789.

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