Get started
Work

Numerical modelling of LSF truss floor-ceiling systems made of top hat sections

Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Predicting the load-bearing capacity of light steel framed (LSF) systems accurately using finite element analysis is useful for ensuring safety and efficiency in building design. This study evaluates the accuracy of Finite Element (FE) models in simulating the structural behaviour of LSF truss floor-ceiling systems made of top hat sections, focusing on three distinct modelling strategies. An advanced sheathed truss model was developed first, which represented the sheathing material, connections, imperfections, geometric and material nonlinearities, contact interaction behaviours and the connection between truss elements and truss and sheathing. This was followed by developing basic and improved unsheathed truss models. This study has quantitatively evaluated the capability of these models in simulating the failure loads and modes of seven tested LSF truss floor-ceiling specimens. The mechanical properties of the associated sheathing materials were also founded and incorporated into the FE models to improve their accuracy. This paper details the development of the advanced FE models of LSF truss floor-ceiling systems subjected to bending, and their results. The advanced sheathed model's predictions regarding failure modes, load capacities, and the relationships between load and mid-span deflection were analysed and compared with experimental results and also with those from other two unsheathed truss modelling strategies. A parametric study was also conducted using the validated advanced sheathed truss model by changing different parameters relevant to the LSF truss floor-ceiling systems. This paper also offers recommendations for modelling LSF truss floor-ceiling systems using appropriate FE techniques.
DOI: 10.1016/j.jcsr.2025.109654
Language: English
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,310
OpenAlex ID: W4411261573
FWCI: 1.506
Cites: 30
Cited by: 4
Related to: 10