Light gauge steel cassette wall construction — theory and practice

Light gauge steel cassette wall construction is an interesting alternative to the conventional method of constructing light steel framing for low-rise buildings using wall studs. This paper demonstrates that this method of construction is shown to particular advantage when wall panels are subject to in-plane shear forces, which generally arise from wind loading but can also arise from seismic loading or mining subsidence. Some deficiencies in current design codes are noted. The paper also includes detailed consideration of the appropriate way to carry out the stressed skin (diaphragm) design of cassette walls with window and door openings.