Testing and finite element modeling of stressed skin diaphragms

The cold formed light-gauge profiled steel sheeting can offer considerable shear resistance acting in the steel building frame. This paper conducted the full-scale test on the shear behavior of stressed skin diaphragm using profiled sheeting connected by the self-tapping screws. A three-dimensional finite element model that simulates the stressed skin diaphragm was developed. The sheet was modeled using thin element model while the supporting members were simulated using beam elements. Fasteners were represented in the numerical model as equivalent springs. A joint test program was conducted to characterize the properties of these springs and results were reported in this study. Finite element model of the full-scale test was analyzed by use of the ANSYS package, considering nonlinearity caused by the large deflection and slip of fasteners. The experimental data was compared with the results acquired by the EUR formulas and finite element analysis.