Technical Bulletin
IMP Structural Loading
Insulated Metal Panels (IMPs) perform very well at resisting transversely applied loading. This type of loading is applied normal to the face of the panel and includes wind loading, as well as live/dead/snow loading – for roof panels. Being separated by an insulating core, IMPs also resist thermal loading that can be induced when the face and liner sheet are at different temperatures.
IMPs are not classified as “load-bearing” panels in the sense of axial loading. They can be used on a load-bearing wall, but only if the axial load is carried by other construction – not by the panels. Many insulated panels
have a progressive tongue-and-groove interlock joint, being hard fastened to the structure only along their leading edge. These side joint fastened panels can exhibit low resistance to racking type loads.
