Sustainable Design for CFS Structures: Experimental Data and Numerical Models of Hinged Connections

Cold-formed steel structures represent a suitable alternative to classical, by now, structural solutions considering the recycling/reuse tendency worldwide as part of circular economy paradigm. The paper presents new design approach for CFS profile joints accurately predict their realistic behavior, based on experimental and numerical investigation two types connectors frequently used in construction industry manufacturing made profiles: steel-steel pop-rivets (SSPR) self-tapping screws (STS). experiments carried out case T-joints subjected tensile forces tested both solutions. Another significant parameter research was thickness sheet make profiles. A number 20 specimens Cold-Formed Steel (CFS) profiles total were tested. These consist five each thicknesses. results are relevant designers because they provide data concerning limited axial rigidity T-joints, which an important instrument models achieving optimum system terms strength overall rigidity. Experimental tests calibrate model that accounts stiffness hinged between main parameters connector type. calibrated study highlights advantages compared classical procedure conventional connection. Based results, conclusion is that, besides geometry joint type, plays crucial role behavior should be accounted process.