The maximum height possible for a Siniat metal stud partition or shaftwall system is dependant on a number of factors.

Firstly there will be the cold state maximum height which is down to the structual ability of the system and keeping it within the defined parameters of BS 5234-2.

Secondly, if there is a fire resistance period required for the system, then depending on the fire standards the project is required to meet and the relevant test data available there may be restrictions applied to the system limiting its height to below the permissable cold state maximum height.

Cold state partition maximum heights are dependent on several factors. Stud width, stud type, stud gauge and stud centres. The number of board layers and footprint width also effect the maximum height. All these effects the strength and stability of the system and thus the height it can be built to. Larger studs, heavier stud gauge, close stud centres, more board layers all increase a system max height capability.

There is also design criteria that need to be considered. There is an industry wide guidance of L/240 @200Pa. This limits the maximum height of any partition by defining a maximum permitted lateral deflection at mid height. L is the height of the wall, so no more that L/240 lateral movement at mid height should occur under a 200Pa UDL.

Similarly, BS5234 Part 2 defines duty rating which also limits maximum height based on a loading criterion. In this case a line load of 500N is applied at 1500 above the base and the maximum lateral deflection is measured. 15mm - 20mm deflection is classed as Medium duty, 10mm - 15mm is Heavy Duty and 10mm or under is Severe duty.

Considering the typical system types and boarding combinations, partitions can be be designed up to 12m.

Commonly used systems are detailed in the Siniat Drywall Manual.