Experimental and analytical analysis of racking resistance of partially anchored timber frame walls

Abstract

The resistance to horizontal loads provided by timber constructions is determined by the racking resistance of the timber frame walls within the structure. In Eurocode 5 (EN 1995-1-1), two methods are described to assess the racking resistance of these structural elements. Method A refers to a mechanical model while method B is empirically based and therefore less attractive. When using method A, the full anchorage of the leading stud is needed. Moreover contributions of wall panels with openings in the racking resistance is neglected. In this paper, an experimental campaign studying the racking resistance of partially anchored walls with different wall and loading configurations is presented. The study shows that window and door openings lead to a reduction of the racking resistance of the wall depending on the size of the opening. Additionally, a comparison between the experimental data and several design methods for the assessment of the racking resistance of the wall panels is made.