In light-framed construction, diagonal X-braced walls can provide excellent lateral resistance in both high-wind and high seismic conditions. This presentation discusses the mechanics of x-braced systems, why they are different from code-defined shear walls, what special detailing is required in high seismic areas, how to calculate x-brace deflection, and how important it is (or isn’t) to have tight straps. Pictures of field examples are included, as well as design examples for wind, seismic, and deflection calculations.
Don Allen has been involved in cold-formed steel framing design since 1990, and currently serves as Director of Engineering for Super Stud Building Products. He chairs the Education Committee of the American Iron and Steel Institute, and is actively involved in the development of ASTM and AISI standards. Having spent more than a decade in private practice and served over nine years as technical director for both the Steel Stud Manufacturers Association and the Cold-Formed Steel Engineers Institute, Allen has seen firsthand what works and what does not in CFS lateral design. Allen lectures and writes about CFS design and construction issues regularly, and is the 2013 recipient of the Cold-Formed Steel Engineers Institute (CFSEI) Distinguished Service Award. Allen is a Registered and Board Certified Professional Engineer and a LEED Accredited Professional.
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Don Allen has been involved in cold-formed steel framing design since 1990, and currently serves as Director of Engineering for Super Stud Building Products. He chairs the Education Committee of the American Iron and Steel Institute, and is actively involved in the development of ASTM and AISI standards. Having spent more than a decade in private practice and served over nine years as technical director for both the Steel Stud Manufacturers Association and the Cold-Formed Steel Engineers Institute, Allen has seen firsthand what works and what does not in CFS lateral design. Allen lectures and writes about CFS design and construction issues regularly, and is the 2013 recipient of the Cold-Formed Steel Engineers Institute (CFSEI) Distinguished Service Award. Allen is a Registered and Board Certified Professional Engineer and a LEED Accredited Professional.