Lateral Behavior of Plasterboard-Clad Residential Steel Frames

Abstract

This paper presents a detailed investigation into the contribution of plasterboard to the lateral resistance of cold-formed steel-framed residential structures. It details the development of a finite-element model for laterally loaded plasterboard-lined cold-formed steel wall frames for residential construction. The model utilizes nonlinear element properties and three-dimensional geometrical configurations and is capable of simulating the influence of boundary conditions such as corner return walls and ceiling cornices. The analytical results from the finite-element model were successfully verified against experimental racking test results. A sensitivity analysis was conducted using the model to study the influence of return walls, ceiling cornices, and wall length on the lateral capacity of the wall system. It is concluded that a wall with corner return walls, ceilings cornices, and skirting boards has more than three times the lateral capacity of an identical isolated wall panel. The relationship between the wall length and the ultimate lateral load-carrying capacity of the wall system is dependent on the presence of these boundary conditions.