AISI S913
Full Name
AISI S913 – Test Standard for Determining the Strength and Deformation Behavior of Hold-Downs Attached to Cold-Formed Steel Structural Framing
Scope
AISI S913, developed by the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), outlines a standardized procedure for evaluating the strength and stiffness of cold-formed steel diaphragms using the cantilever test method. This test method is crucial for assessing the in-plane shear performance of diaphragms, which are essential structural components in buildings, providing lateral stability and resisting forces like wind and earthquakes.
The standard specifies constructing a test frame that supports a diaphragm specimen in a vertical cantilever configuration. The specimen, typically representing a portion of a building’s floor or roof diaphragm, is fixed at its base and subjected to a lateral load at its free end. This load simulates the in-plane shear forces experienced by a diaphragm in a real-world scenario.
During the test, the applied load and the corresponding lateral deflection of the diaphragm are continuously monitored and recorded. The data collected allows for the determination of the diaphragm’s shear strength and stiffness characteristics.
AISI S913 focuses on determining the following key performance parameters:
- Ultimate shear strength: the maximum shear force the diaphragm can withstand before failure.
- Shear stiffness: the relationship between the applied shear force and the resulting lateral deflection, indicating the diaphragm’s resistance to deformation.
- Yield shear strength: the shear force at which the diaphragm exhibits significant yielding or permanent deformation.
The results obtained from the AISI S913 test are instrumental in:
- Validating design assumptions: confirming the accuracy of design calculations and ensuring that the diaphragm meets the required strength and stiffness criteria.
- Developing design procedures: providing experimental data for developing and refining design methods for cold-formed steel diaphragms.
- Evaluating new materials and configurations: assessing the performance of innovative diaphragm designs and materials.
- Quality control: ensuring the consistent quality and performance of manufactured diaphragms.
AISI S913 Accredited Laboratory
Applied Testing & Geosciences, LLC is accredited for performing tests using the AISI S913 standard. Our AISI S913 testing services provide you with the data and insights needed to make informed design decisions and ensure the structural integrity of your building projects.
Contact us today to ensure the reliability and performance of your cold-formed steel diaphragms.
Resources
Keywords
cold-formed steel diaphragms; cantilever test; strength; stiffness; shear strength; deflection; load-displacement curve; yield strength; ultimate strength; elastic modulus; shear modulus; aspect ratio; thickness; material properties; failure modes