Modelling effect of non-structural partitions on floor modal properties

This paper also proposes a numerical modelling approach to account for these effects. The measured modal properties of the structural system in its bare frame state were used initially to update a three dimensional finite element (FE) model of the bare multi-storey frame system featuring the tested floors. Linear elastic spring elements were subsequently included representing the internal partitions and external cladding panels. The bare frame FE model was further updated to determine appropriate spring constants by correlation with modal parameters measured on the fully completed building. For the particular type of cladding and partitions used, it was found that the cladding vertical stiffness is about twice its partitions counterpart. Also, and as expected, the vertical stiffnesses estimated through this process were lower than, but comparable with, the stiffnesses of these elements based on their ideal cross-sectional properties.