A fire resistance design method for thin-walled steel studs in wall panel constructions exposed to parametric fires

This paper investigates the applicability of a simple fire resistance design method for axially loaded thin-walled steel studs in wall panel assemblies when exposed to parametric fires from one side. The simple method includes calculations of cross-section temperatures and ultimate load carrying capacities at elevated temperatures. The simplified calculation method for heat transfer in the cross-section is based on dividing the cross-section into a number of segments. The thermal properties of these layers are based on weighted averages of the thermal properties of the components contained within. The structural capacity calculation method is based on the Direct Strength Method. Results from the design method are compared with the results from Finite Element simulations for heat transfer and structural analysis (236 models). The calculation results are in good agreement with the simulation results and the proposed method may be used in performance-based fire engineering design of such construction.