Z and C Purlins
Z Purlins:
Shape:
Resembling the letter "Z" with two flanges and a central web.
Advantages:
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Strength: Stronger than C purlins, offering better interlocking and load-bearing capacity, particularly at overlaps and joints.
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Versatility: Easily overlapped to create continuous spans, reducing the need for additional supports.
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Lightweight: High strength-to-weight ratio minimizes material usage and installation costs.
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Durability: Often galvanized or pre-painted for enhanced corrosion resistance and longevity.
C Purlins:

Shape:
Resembling the letter "Z" with two flanges and a central web.
Advantages:
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Cost-effectiveness: Simple design makes them affordable compared to Z purlins.
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Ease of Installation: Lightweight and straightforward to handle and secure.
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Space-saving: Single flange design utilizes less space compared to Z purlins, making them beneficial in certain scenarios.
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Widely Available: Readily available in various sizes and materials from most steel suppliers.
Key Differences:
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Strength: Z purlins are generally stronger, making them suitable for heavy loads and challenging spans.
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Overlapping: Z purlins can be easily overlapped for continuous support, while C purlins typically require additional connections at joints.
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Versatility: Z purlins offer wider application flexibility for both roofs and walls, while C purlins are primarily focused on walls and floors.
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Cost: C purlins are generally more cost-effective due to their simpler design and manufacturing process.