Shape optimisation of cold-formed steel framed wall studs with sheathing restraints

Abstract The optimisation of the cross sectional geometry cold-formed steel sections has been subject numerous past studies. These walls consist intermittently placed studs, lined most commonly with gypsum plasterboards. Experimental evidence shown that restraints provided by wall sheathing can have a significant impact on axial compression capacity these studs. However, studies incorporating into analysis, limited despite their potential for useful outcomes. A shape study was therefore conducted using two stochastic search algorithms: Simulated annealing and Genetic algorithm. in-plane out-of-plane to estimated based full-scale test results, were incorporated analyses. Structurally superior alternatives four lipped channel studs currently used in industry, made 1.15 mm thick G500 steel, found. results revealed increasing number rollers roll forming process 6 or 8, enhancements structural efficiency could be obtained 4-roller stud. Elimination local buckling due web segmentation, distortional minor-axis global provision identified as prime causes strength enhancement.