Behaviour of plasterboard-lined steel-framed ceiling diaphragms. (August 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Saifullah, Ismail; Gad, Emad; Shahi, Rojit; Wilson, John; Lam, Nelson; Watson, Ken
• Is Part Of: Thin-walled structures. Volume 141(2019)
• Page Start: 1
• Page End: 14
• Publication Date: 2019-08
• Subjects: Cold-formed steel -- Lateral loading -- Ceiling diaphragm -- Plasterboard lining -- Stiffness -- Strength; Thin-walled structures -- Periodicals; 690.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tws.2019.04.013
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0263-8231

Abstract

Abstract: Behaviour of low rise cold-formed steel-framed residential structures when subject to lateral loading (e.g. wind and earthquake loads) is significantly influenced by both structural and non-structural elements. The ceiling is normally considered as a horizontal diaphragm for the distribution of such lateral loads to the bracing walls. In Australia, the ceiling diaphragm, in single and two storey cold-formed steel-framed houses, is made of plasterboard lining fixed to ceiling battens which in turn are screwed to the roof trusses. Determination of the stiffness and strength of the ceiling diaphragm is crucial for accurate distribution of the lateral load to the lateral resisting elements (e.g. bracing walls). This paper presents experimental results from tests of typical ceiling diaphragms. Further, a detailed finite element model is described which was validated against the experimental results. The model is capable of reproducing the initial stiffness, non-linear deformation and ultimate strength. The finding from this work would assist engineers in designing the lateral load resisting system for houses. Highlights: Performance of steel-framed ceiling diaphragms is mainly governed by the behavior of the sheathing-to-framing connections. Ceiling diaphragm test showed a failure of the plasterboard connections at the corners of the specimen. Presence of end-wall top plate increased the load carrying capacity and displacement capacity of ceiling diaphragm. Finite element model results showed good agreement with the experimental results. Design engineer can prepare design charts to provide maximum spacing of bracing walls for houses constructed in Australia.