330
Partitions: Generic Design Options
332
GENERIC DESIGN OPTIONS
332.1
MATERIALS AND CONSTRUCTION
332.1.1
Fixed and Relocatable Partitions
The preferred options for fixed and relocatable partitions are gypsum
board on metal studs (Option 1) or laminated gypsum board (Option 2).
These provide the highest level and the greatest flexibility of performance
when compared with other partition types. (See Section 723.3.) They are
capable of meeting any reasonable strength requirement, of accepting any
required finish and may be either jointless or panelized, each of which
may have advantages in relation to different functional areas of the
hospital.
Panelized partitions are generally proprietary, whereas the jointless types
are available either as proprietary or non-proprietary systems. Proprietary
systems typically have a higher first cost. The advantage of a proprietary
system is that all details have been precoordinated and tested so that the
level of performance is known and is not as dependent on the quality of
supervision during construction as the non-proprietary types. This is
particularly important where acoustic, fire safety and deflection criteria
must all be met by the same detail, as is the case at the head of the fire
rated partitions. At least one proprietary system - by Vaughn Interior
Walls, Inc. - has such a detail which has been rated one hour by the
University of California, tested for a high level of acoustic performance
(STC 50), and designed to provide as much as " tolerance to take up
deflections. (See Figure 330-3, Detail D.)
There are several specific design options available in each of the two
preferred generic categories. These are illustrated in Figures 330-4 and
330-5 and discussed in Section 336.
332.1.2
Operable and Portable Partitions
These are available in a wide variety of types and properties. Where
sound isolation is required, the partition should provide a positive seal
when partitions are closed. For this reason, as well as for asepsis, those
types which use mechanically activated bottom-edge drop-seals and no
floor track are recommended. This allows some tolerance for movement
of the building structure.
1 - 169
Previous Page
