The phrase describes the exercise of finding and buying beforehand utilized structural metal I-beams, H-beams, or comparable load-bearing elements obtainable from distributors in shut geographical proximity to the searcher. The context implies a need to amass these supplies for building or different tasks at a doubtlessly decrease value than new metal.
Buying pre-owned metal beams presents a number of benefits. These beams present a cheap various to buying newly manufactured metal, making them engaging for tasks with price range constraints. Using reclaimed metal additionally contributes to environmental sustainability by decreasing the demand for brand spanking new metal manufacturing and diverting supplies from landfills. Traditionally, the reuse of structural components has been a standard observe in building, pushed by resourcefulness and financial issues.
Subsequently, understanding the components influencing the provision, situation evaluation, and applicable software of those pre-owned structural elements is essential for potential patrons. The next sections will delve into the important thing issues when exploring choices for acquiring these assets regionally.
1. Native Availability
The proximity of accessible, pre-owned metal beams to the venture website considerably impacts the viability of “used metal beams on the market close to me.” The geographical issue straight influences venture value, lead occasions, and the general environmental footprint related to materials acquisition.
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Transportation Prices
The gap between the supply of the used metal beams and the venture website straight correlates with transportation prices. Gasoline, automobile put on, and driver labor contribute to those bills. Longer distances end in larger general venture prices, doubtlessly negating the financial advantages of utilizing pre-owned supplies.
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Lead Occasions and Undertaking Scheduling
Native availability reduces the lead time required for materials procurement. Shorter transportation distances translate to faster supply, permitting for tighter venture schedules and minimizing potential delays. Prolonged lead occasions, because of distant suppliers, can disrupt venture timelines and incur extra holding prices.
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Environmental Impression
Transportation contributes to carbon emissions and general environmental affect. Sourcing used metal beams from close by places minimizes the transportation distance, thus decreasing the carbon footprint of the venture. Longer distances contain larger gasoline consumption and elevated emissions, diminishing the sustainability benefits of reusing metal.
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Regional Market Dynamics
The presence of native salvage yards, demolition contractors, or building surplus sellers straight impacts the provision and worth of used metal beams. Areas with sturdy native markets typically supply extra aggressive pricing and a wider number of beam sizes and specs. Exploring regional market dynamics is essential for optimizing materials sourcing methods.
The analysis of native availability is a main step in assessing the feasibility of using “used metal beams on the market close to me”. Minimizing transportation distances and leveraging regional market dynamics are important for cost-effective and environmentally accountable venture execution. Subsequently, a radical understanding of native sources and their related logistical implications is essential for knowledgeable decision-making.
2. Beam Specs
The suitability of buying “used metal beams on the market close to me” hinges critically on matching beam specs to venture necessities. The structural integrity and security of any building venture rely upon choosing beams that meet or exceed needed load-bearing capacities and dimensional parameters.
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Materials Grade and Yield Energy
Metal grade denotes the alloy composition and yield energy, a essential think about figuring out the beam’s load-bearing capability. Used metal beams have to be fastidiously assessed to establish their grade and guarantee it aligns with the venture’s structural calls for. For instance, an A36 metal beam, generally utilized in building, has a minimal yield energy of 36,000 psi. Misidentifying or underestimating the fabric grade can result in structural failure.
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Dimensions and Geometry
Beam dimensions, together with peak, flange width, and net thickness, straight affect its bending energy and resistance to deflection. Commonplace beam designations, comparable to W12x26 (Extensive Flange, roughly 12 inches deep, weighing 26 kilos per foot), present essential dimensional info. Incompatibility between the beam’s geometry and the venture’s design specs renders the used metal beam unsuitable, no matter its different traits.
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Span Size and Load Capability
Span size refers back to the distance between helps, and cargo capability represents the utmost weight a beam can safely bear over that span. Used metal beams have to be evaluated for his or her remaining load capability, contemplating potential degradation or earlier utilization. Exceeding the load capability, even with structurally sound supplies, poses a big security threat. Engineers use particular calculations and structural evaluation software program to find out secure load limits primarily based on beam dimensions, materials grade, and span size.
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Part Properties
Part properties, comparable to second of inertia and part modulus, are geometric properties that quantify a beam’s resistance to bending. These values are derived from the beam’s dimensions and form and are important for structural calculations. When contemplating “used metal beams on the market close to me,” these part properties have to be fastidiously in comparison with the venture’s engineering necessities to make sure satisfactory structural efficiency. For instance, a beam with a better second of inertia will exhibit higher resistance to bending underneath a given load.
Subsequently, a complete understanding and exact evaluation of beam specs are indispensable when evaluating “used metal beams on the market close to me.” Correct identification of fabric grade, dimensions, load capability, and part properties ensures the chosen beams meet the structural calls for of the venture and contribute to its general security and stability. Neglecting these specs may end up in catastrophic penalties, emphasizing the significance {of professional} engineering oversight within the choice course of.
3. Situation Evaluation
Situation evaluation is a essential step in evaluating the viability of “used metal beams on the market close to me.” It straight impacts the structural integrity and security of any venture using reclaimed supplies, dictating whether or not the beams are appropriate for his or her supposed goal. A radical analysis minimizes dangers related to hidden defects or compromised load-bearing capability.
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Visible Inspection for Corrosion and Harm
Visible inspection is the preliminary section, involving a meticulous examination of the beam’s surfaces for indicators of corrosion, rust, dents, bends, or different bodily harm. Floor rust could be beauty, however deep corrosion can considerably weaken the metal. Dents and bends point out potential structural stress or affect harm. For instance, a beam salvaged from a marine setting will possible exhibit extra extreme corrosion than one from an inland construction. Ignoring these visible cues can result in underestimation of structural weaknesses.
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Measurement of Dimensional Tolerances
Dimensional tolerances check with the allowable variations in a beam’s specified dimensions. A used metal beam ought to be measured to confirm that its dimensions (peak, flange width, net thickness) are inside acceptable limits. Important deviations can compromise its structural efficiency and compatibility with connecting components. As an example, a beam with a warped flange may not correctly align with supporting columns, creating stress factors and decreasing its load-bearing capability. Exact measurements guarantee compliance with engineering specs.
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Non-Harmful Testing (NDT) Strategies
NDT strategies, comparable to ultrasonic testing and magnetic particle inspection, permit for the detection of inside flaws or cracks that aren’t seen on the floor. Ultrasonic testing makes use of sound waves to detect inside discontinuities, whereas magnetic particle inspection identifies floor and subsurface cracks in ferromagnetic supplies. These strategies are essential for assessing the structural integrity of essential load-bearing components. Failing to make use of NDT may end in overlooking hidden defects that might result in catastrophic failure underneath load.
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Verification of Materials Grade (if doable)
Ideally, the unique materials grade of the metal ought to be verified by way of documentation or testing. If documentation is unavailable, methods like spark testing (analyzing the sparks produced when the metal is floor) can present a sign of the metal’s composition. Figuring out the fabric grade permits engineers to precisely calculate the beam’s load-bearing capability. With out this info, assumptions have to be conservative, doubtlessly limiting the beam’s software or necessitating expensive reinforcement.
These aspects of situation evaluation collectively decide the suitability of “used metal beams on the market close to me.” A rigorous analysis, encompassing visible inspection, dimensional measurement, non-destructive testing, and materials grade verification, gives essential info for making knowledgeable choices in regards to the secure and efficient reuse of structural metal. Neglecting any of those elements will increase the danger of structural failure and compromises the integrity of the development venture.
4. Vendor Fame
The acquisition of “used metal beams on the market close to me” necessitates a cautious evaluation of vendor status. A vendor’s observe report straight correlates with the standard, reliability, and general suitability of the provided supplies. A good vendor mitigates dangers related to buying pre-owned structural elements, guaranteeing that the beams meet specified requirements and possess documented histories, the place obtainable. Situations of structural failures linked to supplies sourced from disreputable distributors spotlight the essential significance of this consideration. For instance, a building venture would possibly face vital delays and value overruns if used metal beams, bought from an unreliable supply, fail to fulfill required load-bearing specs.
Inspecting vendor certifications, buyer evaluations, and previous venture efficiency gives essential insights into their operational practices and materials high quality management. A vendor with verifiable certifications from acknowledged trade our bodies demonstrates adherence to established high quality requirements and testing protocols. Constructive buyer suggestions, significantly relating to materials accuracy and well timed supply, additional validates the seller’s dedication to buyer satisfaction. Conversely, a historical past of complaints associated to misrepresentation of fabric situation, inaccurate specs, or delayed supply indicators potential dangers. Partaking with distributors who possess robust relationships with structural engineers and testing laboratories gives an extra layer of assurance, because it signifies a willingness to topic supplies to rigorous unbiased analysis.
In conclusion, vendor status is an indispensable issue within the means of sourcing “used metal beams on the market close to me”. It serves as a essential indicator of fabric high quality, reliability, and adherence to trade requirements. Thorough due diligence in evaluating vendor credentials and previous efficiency minimizes the potential for structural failures, venture delays, and value overruns. Prioritizing distributors with a confirmed observe report of integrity and high quality management ensures the accountable and efficient utilization of pre-owned structural metal.
5. Pricing Elements
The financial viability of sourcing “used metal beams on the market close to me” is essentially linked to a fancy interaction of pricing components. These components straight decide the cost-effectiveness of using pre-owned supplies in comparison with buying new metal, influencing the general venture price range and feasibility. Fluctuations in market demand, materials situation, and transportation prices all contribute to the value volatility related to used metal beams. For instance, a sudden surge in building exercise inside a selected geographic area can drive up demand for all metal merchandise, together with used beams, leading to elevated costs because of shortage. Conversely, a downturn within the building sector could result in a surplus of used metal, driving costs downward as distributors compete for restricted gross sales.
Materials situation is a main determinant of pricing. Beams exhibiting minimal corrosion, dents, or different structural impairments command larger costs than these with vital harm. A used metal beam that requires in depth repairs or reinforcement to fulfill security requirements will possible be priced decrease to mirror the added value of restoration. Equally, the scale and specs of the beams play an important position. Commonplace beam sizes and grades are usually extra available and priced competitively, whereas much less frequent sizes or specialised metal alloys could command a premium because of their shortage and potential want for customized fabrication. Transportation prices are additionally a big consideration, particularly when sourcing beams from exterior the instant neighborhood. Longer transportation distances improve gasoline consumption, driver labor, and potential logistical challenges, all of which contribute to larger general prices. In essence, the value of “used metal beams on the market close to me” is a dynamic variable formed by provide and demand, materials situation, specs, and transportation logistics.
Understanding these pricing components is essential for knowledgeable decision-making when contemplating using pre-owned metal. A radical evaluation of fabric situation, coupled with an evaluation of present market traits and transportation logistics, permits venture managers to precisely estimate the price of using used metal beams. By fastidiously weighing these components, it turns into doable to find out whether or not the potential value financial savings related to utilizing pre-owned supplies outweigh the dangers and uncertainties concerned. Challenges embrace precisely assessing materials situation with out harmful testing and anticipating fluctuations in market demand. Nonetheless, a complete understanding of those pricing components stays important for maximizing the financial advantages of sourcing “used metal beams on the market close to me.”
6. Transportation Logistics
The phrase “used metal beams on the market close to me” inherently entails transportation logistics, because the bodily motion of those supplies from the vendor to the customer’s venture website is a elementary requirement. Efficient logistical planning is important for minimizing prices, guaranteeing well timed supply, and mitigating potential damages throughout transit. These logistical issues are significantly essential when coping with the scale, weight, and potential irregularities related to used metal beams.
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Mode of Transport Choice
The number of the suitable mode of transport (e.g., flatbed truck, railcar) straight impacts value and supply time. Flatbed vans are generally used for shorter distances and supply flexibility in loading and unloading. Rail transport could also be extra economical for longer distances, however requires entry to rail strains and specialised loading amenities. Outsized or chubby beams could necessitate specialised trailers and permits, rising transportation prices. The chosen mode should even be appropriate with the loading and unloading capabilities at each the vendor’s and purchaser’s places.
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Loading and Unloading Procedures
Protected and environment friendly loading and unloading procedures are paramount to forestall harm to the metal beams and guarantee employee security. Cranes, forklifts, and specialised rigging tools are usually required for dealing with heavy metal beams. Correct securing methods, comparable to chains and straps, have to be employed to forestall shifting or falling throughout transit. Improper loading or unloading may end up in harm to the beams, inflicting delays and doubtlessly rendering them unusable. Rigorous adherence to security protocols is essential to mitigate dangers related to heavy tools operation.
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Route Planning and Allowing
Cautious route planning is important to keep away from low bridges, weight-restricted roads, and different obstacles that might impede transportation. Obese or outsized hundreds typically require particular permits from state and native authorities. Acquiring these permits is usually a time-consuming course of and should contain extra charges. Failure to safe the required permits may end up in fines, delays, and potential impoundment of the load. Route planning additionally considers visitors patterns and potential street closures to attenuate transit time.
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Insurance coverage and Legal responsibility
Enough insurance coverage protection is important to guard in opposition to potential losses because of harm, theft, or accidents throughout transportation. The transportation firm ought to keep ample legal responsibility insurance coverage to cowl any damages to the metal beams or different property. The client must also confirm that their insurance coverage coverage covers the transportation of used metal beams, as some insurance policies could have exclusions for pre-owned supplies. Clearly outlined legal responsibility agreements between the customer, vendor, and transportation firm are essential to make clear duties within the occasion of an incident.
These logistical aspects are intricately linked to the financial and sensible viability of “used metal beams on the market close to me”. A complete understanding of those transportation logistics is important for guaranteeing the secure, well timed, and cost-effective supply of those supplies. For instance, selecting a neighborhood vendor with available transportation choices can considerably cut back prices and lead occasions in comparison with sourcing beams from a distant location with advanced logistical challenges. Thorough planning and execution of transportation logistics are essential for maximizing the advantages of using pre-owned metal beams in building tasks.
7. Compliance Requirements
Adherence to compliance requirements is non-negotiable when contemplating “used metal beams on the market close to me.” These requirements guarantee security, structural integrity, and authorized compliance, straight impacting the suitability and software of pre-owned supplies in building or different tasks. Ignoring compliance may end up in structural failures, authorized liabilities, and security hazards.
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Constructing Codes and Laws
Native constructing codes and rules dictate the permissible use of supplies in building, together with used metal beams. These codes specify minimal necessities for materials energy, load-bearing capability, and connection strategies. For instance, a municipality would possibly require a structural engineer to certify that used metal beams meet or exceed particular ASTM requirements earlier than they are often integrated right into a constructing’s structural framework. Non-compliance can result in building delays, fines, and potential demolition orders.
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Business Requirements and Certifications
Business requirements, comparable to these established by the American Institute of Metal Building (AISC), present pointers for the fabrication, erection, and inspection of metal constructions. Certifications, like these provided by the Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB), be certain that welding procedures and personnel meet established high quality requirements. Utilizing used metal beams with out correct documentation or certification can elevate considerations about their structural integrity and adherence to trade finest practices. A venture involving used metal beams would possibly require extra testing and inspection to compensate for the shortage of unique producer certifications.
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Environmental Laws
Environmental rules govern the dealing with, storage, and disposal of supplies containing hazardous substances, comparable to lead paint or asbestos, which can be current on used metal beams. Correct abatement procedures have to be adopted to forestall environmental contamination and defend employee well being. For instance, sandblasting used metal beams coated with lead paint requires containment and disposal of the contaminated waste in accordance with EPA rules. Failure to adjust to environmental rules may end up in substantial fines and authorized penalties.
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Security Requirements and Employee Safety
Security requirements, comparable to these mandated by OSHA, defend employees from hazards related to dealing with, transporting, and putting in used metal beams. These requirements handle points comparable to fall safety, crane operation, and welding security. As an example, employees putting in used metal beams at peak should use applicable fall safety tools, and crane operators have to be correctly licensed. Non-compliance with security requirements can result in employee accidents, venture delays, and expensive authorized battles.
Compliance requirements symbolize a essential framework for guaranteeing the secure and accountable use of “used metal beams on the market close to me.” Adherence to constructing codes, trade requirements, environmental rules, and security requirements mitigates dangers related to pre-owned supplies and promotes structural integrity, environmental safety, and employee security. Neglecting these compliance issues can have extreme penalties, undermining the viability of using used metal beams in any venture.
Ceaselessly Requested Questions About Sourcing Structural Metal Regionally
The next addresses frequent inquiries relating to the acquisition and utilization of pre-owned structural metal elements from native distributors.
Query 1: What are the first benefits of buying used metal beams over new ones?
Buying pre-owned structural metal usually presents financial advantages, providing a decrease preliminary materials value in comparison with newly manufactured beams. Moreover, the utilization of reclaimed metal promotes environmental sustainability by decreasing the demand for brand spanking new metal manufacturing and minimizing waste directed to landfills. Used metal beams can also be obtainable extra readily than newly fabricated ones, doubtlessly expediting venture timelines.
Query 2: How can the situation of used metal beams be reliably assessed?
A radical situation evaluation entails visible inspection for corrosion, dents, bends, or different bodily harm. Dimensional tolerances ought to be verified to make sure compliance with venture specs. Non-destructive testing strategies, comparable to ultrasonic testing or magnetic particle inspection, can reveal inside flaws not seen on the floor. Ideally, the unique materials grade ought to be verified; nonetheless, this isn’t all the time doable.
Query 3: What components affect the value of used metal beams?
The worth of used metal beams is set by a number of components, together with materials grade, dimensions, situation, native market demand, and transportation prices. Beams with minimal harm and customary dimensions usually command larger costs than these with vital defects or non-standard specs. Fluctuations within the building trade and transportation bills additionally affect general pricing.
Query 4: What are the important thing issues for transportation of used metal beams?
Transportation logistics contain choosing the suitable mode of transport, guaranteeing secure loading and unloading procedures, planning environment friendly routes, and securing needed permits for outsized or chubby hundreds. Correct insurance coverage protection is important to guard in opposition to potential harm or loss throughout transit. An in depth transportation plan minimizes prices and ensures well timed supply.
Query 5: What compliance requirements govern using used metal beams in building tasks?
The usage of used metal beams should adjust to native constructing codes, trade requirements (e.g., AISC pointers), environmental rules, and security requirements (e.g., OSHA necessities). Adherence to those requirements ensures structural integrity, environmental safety, and employee security. Documentation verifying materials properties and inspection outcomes could also be required.
Query 6: How can a good vendor for used metal beams be recognized?
A good vendor possesses verifiable certifications from acknowledged trade our bodies, demonstrates constructive buyer suggestions, and maintains robust relationships with structural engineers and testing laboratories. Transparency relating to materials sourcing and situation evaluation is essential. Distributors ought to present detailed documentation and be prepared to topic supplies to unbiased analysis.
In abstract, the acquisition of pre-owned structural metal calls for meticulous consideration to element, encompassing thorough situation assessments, adherence to compliance requirements, and cautious vendor choice. A complete method ensures secure and efficient utilization of those supplies.
The following part explores case research illustrating profitable functions of reused metal beams in numerous building tasks.
Ideas for Sourcing Regionally Out there Pre-Owned Metal Beams
The profitable procurement and utilization of pre-owned metal beams sourced from native distributors necessitates cautious consideration of a number of key components. Prioritizing thorough evaluation, documentation, and adherence to trade finest practices mitigates potential dangers and ensures the structural integrity of subsequent tasks.
Tip 1: Conduct a Complete Market Survey: Previous to participating with any vendor, conduct a radical survey of accessible native sources. Establish salvage yards, demolition contractors, and surplus materials sellers within the instant geographic space. This preliminary evaluation gives a baseline understanding of accessible beam varieties, sizes, and potential pricing ranges.
Tip 2: Prioritize Detailed Situation Evaluation: Implement rigorous situation evaluation protocols. Visible inspection ought to be supplemented by non-destructive testing strategies, comparable to ultrasonic or magnetic particle testing. Doc any indicators of corrosion, deformation, or structural harm. Have interaction a certified structural engineer to interpret evaluation findings and decide suitability for supposed functions.
Tip 3: Confirm Materials Specs: Every time doable, confirm the unique materials specs of the used metal beams. Get hold of mill certifications or conduct materials testing to verify metal grade and yield energy. Make sure that the desired materials properties align with the venture’s structural necessities. Unverified materials properties introduce unacceptable dangers.
Tip 4: Affirm Vendor Credentials and Fame: Rigorously consider vendor credentials and status. Confirm certifications from acknowledged trade organizations. Assessment buyer testimonials and venture references. Prioritize distributors with established observe information of offering high quality supplies and adhering to trade finest practices. Discounted pricing from unverified sources introduces unacceptable threat.
Tip 5: Set up Clear Transportation Logistics: Develop a complete transportation plan that addresses loading, securing, and supply logistics. Choose transportation suppliers with expertise dealing with heavy structural metal. Get hold of needed permits for outsized or chubby hundreds. Make sure that satisfactory insurance coverage protection is in place to guard in opposition to potential harm throughout transit.
Tip 6: Preserve Detailed Documentation: Preserve meticulous documentation all through the sourcing course of. Retain copies of all inspection studies, materials certifications, vendor correspondence, and transportation paperwork. This documentation serves as a essential audit path and gives important info for future reference.
Tip 7: Guarantee Compliance with Native Constructing Codes: Previous to set up, confirm that the used metal beams adjust to all relevant native constructing codes and rules. Have interaction a structural engineer to verify that the beams meet the required load-bearing capability and dimensional tolerances. Non-compliance with constructing codes may end up in expensive rework and potential authorized liabilities.
Tip 8: Set up a Contingency Plan: Implement a contingency plan to deal with potential points, comparable to surprising materials defects or transportation delays. Having various sourcing choices obtainable permits for fast decision of unexpected issues and minimizes venture disruptions. Contemplate various designs if the unique beams are discovered to be unsuitable.
The following tips present a framework for mitigating dangers and maximizing the advantages of sourcing pre-owned structural metal regionally. Diligence, documentation, and adherence to trade finest practices are paramount for guaranteeing venture security and success.
The following conclusion synthesizes the important thing factors mentioned all through this text, offering a complete overview of the components influencing the efficient acquisition and utilization of used metal beams from native distributors.
Used Metal Beams For Sale Close to Me
The previous exploration has detailed the multifaceted issues inherent in sourcing pre-owned structural metal. From evaluating native availability and meticulously assessing beam specs to scrutinizing vendor status and navigating transportation logistics, every aspect contributes to the general feasibility and duty of using such supplies. The adherence to compliance requirements, together with constructing codes and security rules, is paramount, overriding any potential financial benefits within the absence of verifiable structural integrity.
In the end, the viability of “used metal beams on the market close to me” rests on a rigorous, data-driven analysis course of. Prioritizing complete inspection, thorough documentation, and engagement with certified professionalsengineers, inspectors, and respected vendorsis essential. Solely by way of such diligence can the potential advantages of value financial savings and environmental duty be realized with out compromising security or structural integrity. The knowledge offered is meant to tell accountable decision-making in building and associated fields, emphasizing the significance of knowledgeable observe over purely financial issues.
