Experimental study on the flexural performance of large-span integrated wall panels

Abstract

A large-span integrated wall panel made of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) is proposed for enclosure structures of ultra high voltage (UHV) converter stations in western China. The panel comprises UHPC face panels, edge-curled thin-walled H-shaped steel ribs, galvanized steel sheets, and a rock wool core, connected by self-tapping screws, integrating load-bearing, enclosure, thermal insulation, decorative, and pipeline-embedding functions. A full-scale specimen (8.0 m × 1.5 m) is tested under out-of-plane static bending with realistic support conditions. The panel reaches an ultimate load capacity of 102.9 kN (wind load of 11.4 kN/m2), far exceeding typical extreme wind load requirements. Test results show a clear load-transfer path with strong interfacial bonding and no delamination or slippage. The specimen fails in a ductile manner through vertical bending cracks, with stable mid-span deflection and crack propagation.