Non-linear structural analysis of shear connected cavity walls subject to wind load

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive structural analysis of shear connected cavity walls, vertically spanned, subject to lateral load. The cavity wall investigated in this study is a masonry assembly comprising two wythes separated by a continuous cavity and tied together, via non-conventional metal connectors. Since the introduction of the new Block Shear$\sp{\rm TM}$ Connector the role and the structural behaviour of traditional cavity walls with flexible ties changed significantly. Also, the new, Canadian Standards Association Standard CSA CAN3-S304.1-M94 Masonry Design for Buildings-Limit States Design introduces strength and serviceability requirements that must be met in design. For both reasons, the author recognized a great need for a rational approach and more realistic prediction of structural performance of the cavity wall. Currently, the masonry industry is looking into a method to take advantage of the unused structural potential of the outer wythe by reducing the material and construction costs. The realistic determination of the response of either a plain or reinforced shear connected cavity wall demands knowledge of the inelastic behaviour of all constituent parts and the ability to incorporate these into a rational analysis of the real structure. Since a precise analysis is highly complex, this requires a reasonable compromise between reality and the use of simplifying assumptions: firstly, in the formulation of material and geometric properties, secondly in simulating the structure with a mathematical model and finally, in the use of the principles of mechanics. The proposed Method of Imposed Rotations which falls into the category of Separation Methods is a special type of non-linear analysis. It is based on the Principle of Superposition, with material non-linear stress-strain relationships, and consequently non-linear constitutive relationships accounted for. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)