Experimental study on screwed connections for sheathed CFS structures with gypsum or cement based panels

Some experimental studies on the structural response of constructions made of cold-formed steel (CFS) profile are ongoing at University of Naples “Federico II”. Since the connections between panels and CFS frame have a fundamental role in the global response of CFS constructions, a specific task was devoted to test this kind of elements. In particular, the main object of the activity is the experimental characterization of solutions for panel-to-CFS connections commonly used in common practice, with reference to gypsum and cement-based solutions. In order to define their mechanical properties, 54 tests were carried out in order to assess the effect of panel type, thickness profile, screw diameter and number of panel layers. The results of this experimental investigation are discussed in this paper. Furthermore, the experimental values of shear strength obtained in the tests are compared with the available theoretical predictions and experimental data from literature.