Numerical simulation and parametric study of plywood‐cold formed steel composite floor members

Abstract

This study examines the structural behaviour of cold‐formed steel–timber composite floor systems formed of thin‐walled steel profiles and plywood panels, connected using self‐drilling screws to provide different levels of shear connection. After summarising the experimental assessments, in terms of material, push‐out, and three‐point short‐span floor tests, nonlinear numerical validation of adopted finite element procedures where the constitutive response of steel, timber, and fasteners is represented in detail, is presented. Comparison between simulations and experimental observations demonstrates close agreement with respect to load‐carrying capacity, stiffness, deformation patterns, and stress distributions, confirming that the chosen modelling assumptions and parameter ranges are reliable. Once validated, the models are extended to conduct a parametric study that examines the influence of span length, section geometry, and material yield strength. The results provide insights into the sensitivity of structural response to these governing parameters and allow the formulation of both qualitative design recommendations and modified predictive equations for assessing the load resistance and deformation capacity of such hybrid floors.