Influence of sheet-to-purlin fastener properties on the rotational restraint of cold-formed Z-purlins

摘要

The paper presents the results of numerical simulations of the standard test recommended by Eurocode 3-1-3 to determine the rotational stiffness C (D) given to the Z-purlin by the sheeting, for sheet-to-purlin fastener and washer diameters different than the specified in the code. The numerical results were compared with experimental ones, and then used to calculate the ultimate limit load of continuous Z-purlins without and with one intermediate antisag bar, under gravity and uplift loading. The similar calculations were also done for fasteners without neoprene washers. The main conclusion of the research is that the Eurocode 3-1-3 rules for determination of the rotational stiffness C (D) can also be used for different sheet-to-purlin fastener properties, disregarding the specified limitations.