The quality of light gauge steel (LGS) frames is heavily dependent on 3 key factors:

1. The quality of the framing system being used. This includes the ease of rollforming, assembly and installation, as well as the range of accessories and connections that are included;
2. The quality of the software being used to design and manufacture the LGS frames. This can include the engineering calculations carried out and whether they are certified to comply with local construction codes, the software ease of use, and whether it can prepare all of the information required for smooth production and installation.
3. Whether users know how to proficiently use the various software applications.

Too often, the third point is overlooked. In our experience at Enduroframe, skilled users who are adept at using software to its full extent are important to ensure that detailing is done quickly, the end frames are easy to manufacture and install, and the frames are cost effective minimising the amount of steel, accessories and labour.

Unfortunately, there have not been any traditional education pathways for users to learn how to detail LGS frames. Each LGS framing system is different – they have different sections and connections which affects the frame strength, different methods to manufacture and install, some will require professional engineers to review designs while others don’t, to name a few.

To address this gap, we have launched the pioneering online training platform, Endurocademy. This platform aims to educate users on utilizing the diverse software tools developed by Enduroframe. You can explore the array of courses available on the Endurocademy course page.

Each course comprises multiple lessons, culminating in a quiz. Some courses mandate the submission of designs created in the ENDUROCADD® software to the Enduroframe expert team for review, ensuring students can apply the acquired skills. Upon successful completion of each course, students receive certificates as proof of understanding the subject matter. This certification is essential for students to qualify as Trained Software Users under the ABCB Protocol for Structural Software, eliminating the need for costly engineering sign-offs for buildings falling within the protocol’s scope.

Enduroframe delivers cost-effective solutions through several innovative approaches: advanced testing methodologies that optimize steel usage, enhanced framing systems that streamline assembly and installation processes, and sophisticated software implementations that automate various design elements.

Traditional lifting methods

Traditional wall panel lifting methods using slings can cause significant damage to wall frames at the bottom of packs due to the weight of frames above. While steel lifting lugs with pre-punched holes and eyelets have been an effective solution, they present challenges: high manufacturing costs, poor return rates from construction sites, and expensive collection and retrieval processes. It is not uncommon that the cost of a truck returning expensive lifting lugs is worth as much or more than the lifting lugs themselves!

Enduroframe solution

Enduroframe has engineered an innovative and economical alternative. Combining the ENDUROFRAME® building system’s unique lipped and unlipped sections to make a robust lifting lug provides:

• an engineered solution
• easy screw-on installation
• a cost-effective manufacturing process, and
• a recyclable solution which eliminates costly return logistics.

The lifting lugs offer versatile post-use applications such as repurposing as house frame components, converting into various brackets, or even re-using the brackets in subsequent deliveries.

This solution not only addresses the practical challenges of wall panel lifting but also provides a sustainable, cost-efficient alternative to traditional methods.

Manufacturing instructions and an engineered report provided by a structural engineer are included as part of the licensing of the ENDUROFRAME® building system.

Attaching pictures, brackets, towel rails and shelves to steel frames is a common query we receive for ENDUROFRAME® building system support. Here’s how you can do it effectively:

• For hanging pictures, use readily available hooks from any hardware store that attach directly to the plaster. This method doesn’t require a stud and can support up to 20 kg.

• To attach directly to a stud, simply use a coarse thread self-drilling or self-tapping screw through a predrilled hole.

• For a more secure fix for heavy items like TVs, cupboards, and towel rails, our ENDUROFRAME® building system includes a unique face fix nogging solution. This feature, added during the detailing stage of new homes, ensures a robust mount that won’t fail, providing long-term value and peace of mind.