The PLC4 is a premium option for bypass curtain wall connections. The PLC4’s advanced design provides secure attachment to the main building structure while allowing seamless vertical deflection. The PLC4 transfers horizontal load into structural members, maintains lateral rigidity, and eliminates bridging within 12 inches of support connection. The PLC4 Bypass Clip has been engineered to provide the greatest allowable loads in the industry. The clip was designed with contractor input to be user-friendly and save labor.
The bypass clip has multiple features specifically designed to improve the user experience:
- The featured slots enable the vertical movement of the structure and alleviate load stress on steel-framing members;
- The 2 ¼” deflection slots allow for 2” of total deflection;
- Stiffening lips and ribs provide increased compression strength for high wind loads;
- Pre-punched holes provide optional secure attachment;
- Chamfered corners reduce the possibility of field injury.
SCAFCO includes custom quarter inch shouldered screws with every PLC4 clip. These self-tapping screws allow superior movement while making installation into the structural support slab quick and easy.
The third-party IAPMO-ER0494 certification report has been finalized, and all the required technical data for the PLC4 is in place. The PLC4 can be used in any area of the country, even in states with the most stringent requirements, such as California and Florida.
The PLC4 has greater load capacity for deflection conditions than previous clips. The PLC4 is versatile and can be used for deflection and secure connections. The PLC4 will also be competitive against the heavier PLC2 option.
The PLC4 Deflection Clip is made from mill-certified steel per ASTM A653 standards. The material is 68 mil or 14 gauge material thickness, 57 ksi yield strength, 65 ksi ultimate tensile strength, and comes standard with a G90 galvanized coating.
Recently, SCAFCO Engineering presented the PLC4 Clip at the Structural Engineers Association (SEA) annual conference in Portland, OR. SCAFCO Engineering said that, “Engineers marveled at the load capacities for both compression and tension forces, compared to other clips on the market.”
Structural Testing and Research Inc. (STAR), one of the leading testing laboratories in North America, professionally tested the PLC4 Bypass Clip. Structural capacity tests for both compression and tension proved the PLC4’s ability to handle the most extreme exterior wind loads. Also, IAPMO Uniform Evaluation Services (IAPMO) reviewed the third-party testing to meet all applicable codes and standards. After reviewing the testing report and application of the product, multiple licensed engineering professionals have certified the PLC4 and its load capacities to be code compliant.
For more information, visit: https://www.scafco.com/steel/products/deflection-clips/plc4-bypass-slide-clip or contact SCAFCO Engineering at Technical@SCAFCO.com.
