bracing system - HSS posts with plywood panel infill

[asixth]

Hi guys

I have a client who is looking at putting an large opening in an existing wood framed shear wall (typical residential construction). I am looking at upgrading the existing system by providing additional shear walls or possibly providing additional sheathing and anchoring of the existing shear walls.

However, knowing the nature of the job (residential refurbishment). I know that the client is going to want to look at other solutions in the attempt to save money.

This is what I am thinking.

A hybrid perforated shear wall using 3" square HSS's as the boundary elements, timber frame infill panels with plywood sheathed to one or both faces of the wall. Looking through various publications, I see that many approaches for designing perforated shear walls typically downgrade the capacity too significantly. Has anybody attempted to do this in the past.

Does anybody know of some other products I can use in lieu of plywood. I have a feeling when I run through the calculations it is going to be the plywood or nails which are the first failing element. I was thinking of flat light-gauge metal sheet.

Any help and input will be appreciated.

 

[MiketheEngineer]

Have done that - seems to work OK. You might want to look at Structural grade plywood - has very good values.

Also - I have used the floor and ceiling diaphragms to help carry the load.

My guess is that you might be looking at two or three story atrium type area.

Also have used HSS welded frames to do the same. Anchor bolts are BIG!!