Max Load Capacity of Rack Built from 2x2x.25 Steel Tubing

[blake92]

I am trying to determine the capacity of this shelf i am building out of 2x2x.25 steel tubing. My only real question as of now, is let's say its 4ft wide and 8ft long, if i put a support every 1ft, does that mean when determining the max capacity i could treat it as several sections?

guess what i am wondering is how do i account for supports when determining a max capacity?

 

[jackwhirl]

I presume you mean something shaped like shown here: http://www.metalsdepot.com/products/hrsteel2.phtml?page=sqtube

if i put a support every 1ft, does that mean when determining the max capacity i could treat it as several sections?

Basically, yes.
What are you hoping to place on said shelf?

 

[blake92]

Would be for steel storage. I attached a rough idea of what i am talking about. The verticals would be the legs, horizontal is where the weight is applied.