Analysis of Hysteretic Behavior of Cold-Formed Thin-Wall C Steel Members

Abstract

The chapter presents the analysis of hysteretic behavior of cold-formed thin-wall C steel (CFCS) members. Cold-Formed Thin-Wall C Steel members have been widely utilized as principle structural members in low-rise light-gauge steel framed residences. To prove the adaptability of a light-gauge steel framed structure used in multi-storey residences, the hysteretic behaviors of cold-formed thin-wall C steel members must be investigated. Using the nonlinear finite element method, the hysteretic behaviors of CFCS members are analyzed, and the postbuckling intensity and strain hardening at corner zone are considered in the chapter. Loading modes corresponding to different earthquakes are presented to reflect different seismic characteristics. Analytic results show that the width-to-thickness ratio and the initial cycle displacement amplitude have a remarkable effect on the hysteretic behaviors of the CFCS members. The larger the width-to-thickness ratio and the initial cycle displacement amplitude exceeding the yield displacement are, the leaner the hysteretic curves become.