Z and C Purlins: The Backbone of PEB Secondary Framing In a Pre-Engineered Building (PEB), the primary steel frame provides the main structural system, while secondary framing members support the building envelope and help transfer loads to the main structure. Among these secondary members, Z and C purlins play a critical role in supporting roof and wall systems. Although they may not be as visually prominent as the main frames, they are an essential part of an efficient and well-engineered PEB system. What
Steel is non-combustible and does not act as a fuel in a fire. That said, like all structural materials, steel’s load-carrying capacity changes when exposed to elevated temperatures. Engineers manage this through design: selecting appropriate sections, limiting loads, and applying passive fire protection so the structure remains stable for the required evacuation and firefighting periods. What makes steel a preferred structural material in fire engineering is its predictable behaviour. Because its response to temperature can be modelled and tested, designers can specify