Loading Information
Uniform Load
When a distributed load has a constant value over the entire bracket or beam length, it is said to be uniformly loaded. This would be similar to loading identical boxes on a shelf side by side.
Point Load
A point load is when the force of the load is concentrated on one point along the bracket or beam. Using identical supports as shown below and the point load located -1/2 way between the supports, the point load rating will be -1/2 the uniform load rating. Load ratings are generally listed in pounds (lb.) or kilo Newtons (kN).
Cantilever Load
A cantilever bracket or beam is rigidly attached at one end and is completely free at the other end. A cantilever load is applied at one point or spread along a section of the length of a bracket or beam and causes a twisting load or moment at the mounting point. Load ratings for this type of bracket are generally listed in inch pounds (in. lb.) or Newton meter (Nm). A uniformly applied load on a bracket (figure A”) may be considered as a point load by taking the uniform load and expressing it as a single point load of the same force at a distance of -1/2 the total distance the load is spread over as shown in figure B”. This is calculated by multiplying -1/2 the distance X”, in inches or meters, by the load expressed in pounds or Newtons.
Testing Methods for Strut Fittings
Fittings are tested for pull out of the channel by supporting the channel at 3″ [76.2mm] spacing and applying a load perpendicular to the channel with the fitting attached according to the recommended methods and mounting torque as stated in MFMA Standards using channel meeting MFMA standards. MFMA torque values.
 Pullout Test with Load on Fitting |
 Pullout Test with Load on Rod |
Slip Test for Strut Fittings
The channel nut sliding inside the channel is tested by supporting the channel by such method that the channel is stationary and applying a load parallel to the channel with the fitting attached according to the recommended methods and mounting torque as stated in MFMA Standards using channel meeting MFMA standards.
Testing Methods for Strut Clamps
Strut clamps are tested for pull out of the channel by supporting the channel solidly and applying a load perpendicular to the channel. Strut clamps are tested for sliding in the channel by supporting the channel solidly and applying a load parallel to the channel. The clamps are attached according to the recommended methods using methods and channel meeting MFMA standards.
 Pull Out Test on Strut Clamp |
 Slip Test on Strut Clamp |