Inelastic seismic response of frame fasteners for steel roof decks

Single-storey steel structures represent the vast majority of buildings that are constructed for light industrial, commercial and recreational uses in North America. It is often more cost effective to specify a non-ductile structural system, despite the fact that this type of structure and its occupants would be more vulnerable to seismic ground motions. The overall objective of this research is to investigate the possibility of allowing the metal roof deck diaphragm to absorb earthquake induced energy through plastic deformation. This paper provides preliminary information on the inelastic cyclic response, including load vs, displacement hysteresis and energy absorption capacity, of screwed, nailed (powder-actuated fasteners) and welded steel deck-to-structure connections. The results of monotonic, cyclic and quasi-static tests revealed that the type of connection influences the ultimate capacity and ability to dissipate energy.