Racking and bending tests for prefabricated wall panels

The goal of this research was to evaluate and recommend improvement of wall-to-wall connections for prefabricated wall panels. Results of 6 racking tests and 9 bending tests on full-size 2.44 by 2.44 m walls are presented. The specimens were composed of two 1.22 by 2.44 m segments attached with three different types of connection configurations. Static racking tests were performed according to ASTM standards and, with two types of wall-to-foundation attachments. Bending wall tests were carried out according to a proposed protocol based on the calculation of the wind pressure corresponding to the five hurricane categories. For bending tests three types of wall-to-foundation attachments were used. The results of the racking tests indicate that the type of connection between the wall segments did not have a definite influence on the strength of the anchored walls, whereas for walls nailed to the base the underutilization of the full capacity was noted. For bending tests, the connected wall segments resisted high pressure independent on the central connection used. The trend of the test results will be used to validate a preliminary finite element model developed to predict the performance of prefabricated wall panels subjected to bending and racking forces, with special focus on the interface and anchorage behaviour for performance optimization.