Bearing Strength of Cold-Formed Steel Bolted Connections Using Oversized Holes without Washers

Abstract

This note presents an experimental study of the bearing strength of cold-formed steel (CFS) bolted connections using oversized holes without washers. The test parameters include the sheet thickness, the connection type, the number of bolts, and the bolt diameter. The test results indicate that the use of oversized holes without washers will cause excessive connection deformation and reduce the connection strength. Based on the test data, a new design method is developed to accurately determine the bearing strength of CFS bolted connections when oversized hole is used without washers.