Advanced Connection Techniques for Cold-Formed Steel Structures

Cold-formed steel structures are used extensively in buildings. The use of structural frames and trusses fabricated from cold-formed steel sections is increasing. A key element in the manufacturing of such structures is the nature of the connection between sections. Many conventional connection techniques have some disadvantages. The paper describes and summarizes a major investigation into the application of a new technique, known as press-joining. An extensive program of small-scale shear and bending tests was carried out. A series of full-scale trusses was constructed and tested. It is shown that effective structures can be constructed using the technique. A theoretical method for predicting the strength of joints is presented.