Does IS 3921 provide the load-bearing capacities of the channels?

No, it only provides dimensions and sectional properties. Capacity calculations require material properties from IS 733.

How are aluminium channels designated according to this code?

They are designated by the letters 'C' (Channel) or 'LC' (Light Channel) followed by the depth of the web in mm (e.g., C 100).

What density is used to calculate the mass per meter in the tables?

The mass is calculated based on a standard aluminium density of 2700 kg/m³ (2.70 g/cm³).

IS 3921

: 1985

Aluminium channels

CurrentSpecializedSpecificationBIMStructural Engineering · Structural Engineering and Structural Sections

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This standard specifies the dimensions, mass, and sectional properties (such as area, moment of inertia, radius of gyration, and section modulus) of wrought aluminium and aluminium alloy channel sections used for structural purposes.

Aluminium channels

Quick Reference Values

Assumed density of aluminium2.70 g/cm³

Designation prefix for standard channelC

Designation prefix for light channelLC

Practical Notes

This code only provides geometric properties. The mechanical strength depends on the specific aluminium alloy and temper selected (e.g., 6061-T6, 6063-T5), which must be referred to in IS 733.

Section designations (e.g., C 100) indicate the shape and the depth of the web in millimeters.

BIM modelers and structural detailers should use these exact dimensions to ensure accurate clashes, clearances, and mass calculations.