Structural Evaluation of Steel Joists with Pre-Formed Web Openings - 6/4/2001 - Home Interior Floors Stairs

Innovative Residential Floor Construction: Structural Evaluation of Steel Joists with Pre-Formed Web Openings

March 1999

Executive Summary

The use of steel framing in residential construction is still very limited, partly because steel is not being effectively “integrated” into conventional home construction. Cold-formed steel framing (CFS) is particularly suitable for residential floor systems, because thermal issues are minimal and most floors are currently constructed of more expensive, older growth lumber to meet the loading requirements. Therefore, it is appropriate to focus attention on improving the cost-effective use of steel in one of its most promising applications - residential floors.

This report begins with a brief literature review of relevant work followed by a detailed overview of the experimental and analytical approach. Next, experimental results are presented and analyzed in comparison to existing design specifications and guidelines. The report closes with practical conclusions that recommend adoption of the findings in residential and commercial applications. Appendices at the end of the report give detailed data and example calculations.

The full report is available in PDF format.