Investigating the Effect of the Number of End-Panel Studs on the Seismic Properties of Cold-Formed Light-Steel Shear-Panel Braces

Detailed investigation of the effect of the number of end-panel studs on the seismic properties of light-steel shear-panel braces in cold-formed steel frames and in particular the associated response modification coefficients (R) factor, are presented in this paper. A total of 6 full-scale 1200×2400 mm specimens are considered, and the responses investigated under a standard cyclic loading regime. Of particular interest are the specimens’ maximum lateral load capacity and deformation behavior as well as a rational estimation of the seismic response modification factor. The study also looks at the failure modes of the system and investigates the main factors contributing to the ductile response of the tested shear-panel braces in order to suggest improvements so that braces respond plastically with a significant drift and without any risk of brittle failure, such as connection failure or stud buckling.