Modal analysis of steel framed domestic construction for application to seismic design

Gad, E.F., Chandler, A.M. and Duffield, C.F. (2001) Modal analysis of steel framed domestic construction for application to seismic design. Journal of Vibration & Control, 7 (1), 91-111. (doi:10.1177/107754630100700106).

Abstract

There has been a significant worldwide increase in the use of cold-formed steel in low-rise residential structures as an alternative to timber. A major research project to assess the performance under lateral loading of cold-formed steel frames commenced more than 7 years ago at The University of Melbourne, Australia, in collaboration with industry and other research organizations. This paper reports key findings from an extensive experimental program. It details a particular aspect of the program that uses nondestructive dynamic testing to identify the basic dynamic properties of such structures. Laboratory tests, employing a shaking table, have been conducted on unclad wall panels and a model test house to study the influence of different framing connection types and to assess the influence of nonstructural components, namely, plasterboard interior lining and brick-veneer exterior cladding. The findings from these tests were verified and further extended by testing a full-scale prototype house at various stages of construction. This paper presents information concerning typical natural frequencies and mode shapes for such structures. It also details the contribution of nonstructural components to the lateral stiffness, which was found to be significant. The results have important implications for seismic design and performance of such structures, even in regions of low to moderate seismicity.

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