Light gage steel folded plates

Abstract

A light gage steel folded plate model structure was fabricated and tested under a uniform pressure to determine the relative stiffness of this type of structure. Deflections at mid and quarter spans were measured and compared with values determined by a rational method of analysis. A different approach to the analysis was introduced in which values of equivalent moment of inertia were determined for each plate cross-section so that compatibility along adjoining longitudinal edges would be assured. The experimental and theoretical results were in good agreement.