Metal stud partitions consist of a framework of vertical studs with a facing material attached. The space between the studs can be filled as needed. Traditionally timber was used but metal studs with plasterboard on both sides is also common. Plasterboard satisfies fire safety requirements as a material of limited combustibility with a Class O flame spread rating. Demountable partitions are internal dividers that are usually non-load bearing. They can be permanent or demountable to allow relocation with little damage. Demountable partitions come in many materials and styles, from stud partitions to framed panels to sliding/folding designs. Choice depends on finish, glazing, movement needs, and personal preference.

1. Metal Stud Partitions -
Stud Partitions - these non-load bearing
partitions consist of a framework of vertical studs
to which the facing material can be attached. The
void between the studs created by the two faces
can be infilled to meet specific design needs. The
traditional material for stud partitions is timber
but a similar arrangement can be constructed
using metal studs faced on both sides with
plasterboard.
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2. Stud Partitions -- Fire Protection
• Plasterboard lining to stud framed
partition walls satisfies requirements for
Fire safety, as a material of ``limited
ombustibility'' with a Class O rating for
surface spread of flame (Class O is better
than Classes 1 to 4 as determined by BS
476-7).
• The plasterboard dry walling should
completely protect any combustible
timber components such as sole plates.
• The following shows typical fire
resistances as applied to a metal stud
frame ~
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3. Demountable Partitions
Partitions ~
• these can be defined as vertical
internal space dividers and are
usually non-loadbearing.
• They can be permanent,
constructed of materials such as
bricks or blocks or they can be
demountable constructed using
lightweight materials and capable
of being taken down and moved to
a new location incurring little or no
damage to the structure or
finishes.
• There is a wide range of
demountable partitions available
constructed from a variety of
materials giving a range that will be
suitable for most situations.
• Many of these partitions have a
permanent finish which requires
no decoration and only periodic
cleaning in the context of planned
maintenance.
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4. Demountable Partitions ~
• it can be argued that all internal
nonload bearing partitions are
demountable and therefore the
major problem is the amount of
demountability required in the
context of ease of moving and the
possible frequency anticipated.
• The range of partitions available is
very wide including stud
partitions, framed panel
partitions, panel to panel
partitions and sliding/folding
partitions which are similar in
concept to industrial doors .
• The latter type is often used
where movement of the partition
is required frequently.
• The choice is therefore based on
the above stated factors taking
into account finish and glazing
requirements together with any
personal preference for a
particular system but in all cases
the same basic problems will have
to be considered:-
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5. Page 5
Reference - Chudley and Greeno's Building Construction Handbook